A grant is a type of financial aid awarded by the federal government, state agencies, and educational institutions. Grants are free money and do not have to be repaid. Many grants are given to students based on the information they provide in their FAFSA, and do not require any other type of application.

• Federal Pell Grant: A Federal Pell Grant is a grant awarded primarily to undergraduate students who have not yet completed a degree. Based on your FAFSA, the U.S. Department of Education determines if you are eligible to receive a Pell Grant and decides the amount that you will be given. This amount depends on your financial situation as well as the cost of attendance for the school to which you will attend. As of this year, the maximum Pell Grant is $4,050. Click here for more information.
  



• Cal Grant: If you are a California resident, another great source of financial aid is the Cal Grant . This grant is funded by the State of California , administered by the California Student Aid Commission, and never has to be repaid. You can get up to $8,300 a year by applying for a Cal Grant, and all it takes is two simple steps. After you fill out your FAFSA, all you have to do is submit a Cal Grant GPA Verification Form. This form will either be automatically completed and sent in by your school, or you will have to ask your school counselor to fill one out for you. If you meet income and eligibility requirements and have a GPA above 2.0, you are guaranteed to receive a Cal Grant.