Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant is awarded to students based on financial need and is limited to undergraduate and teaching credential students (students seeking their first bachelor's degree or first teaching credential). The Pell Grant provides a foundation upon which other aid can be awarded.

The amount of a Pell Grant is based on the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and is prorated according to the number of units enrolled. Students enrolled less than full-time (12 units) must inform the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office by submitting the Student Information Update form. 


EFC and Award Amounts

Fall 2023 - Spring 2024 EFC and Award Amounts:

  • EFC cannot exceed 6656
  • Maximum academic year Pell: $7,395
  • Minimum academic year Pell: $767

Pell Grant Lifetime Eligibility

Eligible students can receive Pell Grant up to a maximum of 6 years (600% of their Pell Grant eligibility over an entire academic career). Once a student has reached their 12th full-time semester or 6 years, they are no longer eligible for the Pell grant. 

Students can view their Pell grant usage history with the department of education.


Summer Pell

Pell-eligible students may have additional Pell Grant for Summer. Students must be enrolled at least half-time (6+ units) in order to be considered for summer Pell. 


Additional Information

  • Students who are auditing classes or taking classes for "No Credit" are not eligible for any financial aid towards those registration fees.
  • Students CANNOT receive a Pell Grant from multiple schools during the same enrollment period.
  • Students enrolled in the multiple subjects, math or Spanish subject credential programs are not eligble for Pell grant.