United States Congressman John Kline
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Minnesota 2nd District

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Education Assistance

Introduction to Federal Financial Aid


There are many ways for families and students to receive financial aid. The Federal government is the largest source of financial aid, and awards student aid through grants, loans, work-study and military opportunities. Other avenues for financial aid come from State sponsored programs, such as the Minnesota State Grant Program, the private sector and from institutions themselves. Combining these sources can help many students attain post secondary education.


Pell Grants

The Federal higher education grant is called the Federal Pell Grant Program. This program awards grants to lower and middle income students. This program provided $122 million to 61,500 undergraduates attending Minnesota schools of higher education in fiscal year 2001. The grant program provided about 3.8 million grants nationwide. (Data provided by the Minnesota Higher Education Services Office.)

How are the Grants Determined?
The Pell Grant is determined through a designed formula which Congress approves annually. This formula looks at:
  • The applicant’s family income.
  • The size of the family and the number of students from that family already in school.
  • The price of attendance.
  • The student’s registration status (meaning full or part time.)

Pell Grant Requirements
There are some requirements for students to receive a Pell Grant.

The student must:
  • Be enrolled or applying to an under-graduate program.
  • Be registered with the Selective Service (for all male applicants who have not been exempted from the Selective Service.)
  • Have maintained a good academic record as determined by the grant program.
  • The student must sign a waiver that states they have not defaulted on a Federal loan and that the grant funding will only be used for the education for which it was given.

Application Process
Students who wish to receive a Pell Grant must complete a FAFSA application. This application needs to be filled out to receive any grant or loan from the Federal Government. These applications can be filled out in paper or electronically. Some schools may have a preferred method for submitting the FASFA. You should contact the institution you wish to attend to get their preference.


Important Contact Information

Federal Student Aid Information Center
(800) 433-3243
FAFSA website
When the FAFSA is submitted, you can track its progress by calling
(319) 337-5665