Federal Student Grants: A Complete Guide to Types, Eligibility, and How to Apply
What Are Federal Student Grants?
If you or someone you know is planning to attend college, career school, or university, you’ve likely heard of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Submitting a FAFSA is the first step toward securing federal student financial aid, including grants.
While many prospective and current students are familiar with federal student loans, fewer are aware of the various federal grants for college students awarded to those in need each year.
How Federal Grants Work
Most federal student grants, unlike loans, function as gift aid — meaning they generally don’t need to be repaid.
There are exceptions, though. For example, if a student receives a grant but withdraws from their enrolled program, they may be required to repay all or a portion of that grant.
Types of Federal Student Grants
The U.S. Department of Education offers several grant programs as part of its federal student financial aid offerings. Each has its own eligibility requirements. Amounts below reflect the 2025–2026 academic year.
Federal Pell Grants
Federal Pell Grants offer a maximum award of $7,395 per year. They’re reserved for undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and haven’t yet earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
FSEOG grants award up to $4,000 to students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and haven’t yet earned a bachelor’s or graduate degree. Priority is given to Pell Grant recipients over other applicants.
Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants
TEACH Grants award up to $4,000 per year to students enrolled in teaching preparation programs who agree to teach for a minimum of four years at the elementary or secondary school level in a high-need field.
Grants for Children of Fallen Service Members
Students whose parent or guardian died as a result of military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of 9/11 may qualify for a special Pell Grant provision. Rather than a separate grant program, eligible students now receive the maximum Federal Pell Grant award — currently $7,395 — under a rule that replaced the former, standalone Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant.
Why You Should Still Submit a FAFSA
No matter your financial situation, it’s worth submitting a FAFSA. Every grant listed above requires an application on file with the Department of Education, and the potential financial benefit you could secure may surprise you.
For students in Fort Myers and across Southwest Florida, completing the FAFSA is also often a prerequisite for state and institutional aid, in addition to the federal student grants outlined here. A financial professional can help families understand how federal grants fit into a broader plan for funding college.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are federal student grants?
Federal student grants are a form of federal student financial aid awarded by the U.S. Department of Education to help eligible students pay for college, career school, or university. Unlike loans, most grants don’t need to be repaid, though exceptions apply, such as when a student withdraws from their program.
What are the main types of federal student grants?
The main federal grant programs include Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and TEACH Grants. Students whose parent or guardian died from military service in Iraq or Afghanistan may also qualify for the maximum Pell Grant award under a special eligibility rule.
How much money can I get from a federal Pell Grant?
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the maximum Federal Pell Grant award is $7,395. The exact amount a student receives depends on financial need, cost of attendance, and enrollment status.
Do I have to pay back a federal student grant?
Generally, no — federal grants are considered gift aid and don’t need to be repaid. However, if a student withdraws from their enrolled program after receiving a grant, they may be required to repay all or part of it.
Do I need to submit a FAFSA to receive federal grants?
Yes. All federal student grant programs require applicants to have a FAFSA on file with the Department of Education. Submitting a FAFSA is also often necessary to qualify for state and institutional financial aid.
Who qualifies for a TEACH Grant?
TEACH Grants are available to students enrolled in an eligible teacher preparation program who agree to teach for at least four years at the elementary or secondary level in a high-need field. Recipients who don’t fulfill this service obligation may have their grant converted into a loan that must be repaid with interest.
