Grants can be an important part of your financial aid package. They’re especially nice because you don’t have to repay them.
If you’ve filled out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you’ve automatically applied for the major federal grant programs. To receive a grant, you must have financial need as defined by the federal government. You also must meet the eligibility requirements for financial aid.
If you qualify for a federal grant, WCC’s Financial Aid office will send an award letter to your student email account.
There are two major types of federal grants:
- Pell Grant
- Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
There’s also a smaller program called the Carl Perkins Grant that you may find is worth investigating.
Federal Pell Grant
The Pell Grant program is the federal government’s largest student financial aid program. You can receive up to $7,395 for the 24-25 academic year, although the actual amount you’ll get depends on a number of factors. If you’ve already received a bachelor’s degree, you’re not eligible for a Pell Grant.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
Pell Grant recipients with exceptional financial need may qualify for the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). Funding for the grant is limited, and priority is given to students with the lowest Expected Family Contribution (EFC). A typical grant is $1600 for the academic year.
Federal Carl Perkins Grant
Unlike the other grants described here, the Carl Perkins Grant requires an application. It helps pay for tuition, textbooks, and child care costs for students who have financial need, are in eligible occupational majors, and fit into one of eight categories.
Tuition Incentive Program (TIP)
The Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) is a program funded by the State of Michigan that encourages eligible students to complete high school by providing tuition assistance for the first two years of college and beyond. For more information, please check the State of Michigan website