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Pell College Grants Increase Under Stimulus Bill

February 23, 2009
DesMoines Register, Iowa

Part of the new $787 billion federal stimulus package that Congress passed and President Barack Obama signed into law last week includes more money for federal Pell Grants. The result will help thousands of students.

The program provides need-based grants to qualifying college students. The program is designed to promote greater access to postsecondary education across America.
The grants don't have to be repaid.
"This is welcome news," said Rob Denson, president of Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). "The economic downturn is hurting many of our students, particularly those from low income households. So, the additional Pell Grant funding will help many DMACC students pursue graduation and new careers.”

The stimulus legislation provides for slightly more than $17 billion for Pell Grants. This year the maximum Pell Grant is $4,731 per student, per year. That amount would go up to $5,350 per student next year (2009-10 school year) and $5,550 in 2010-11.

"The additional Pell Grant dollars have helped our students offset the rising cost of tuition. For the highest need students the grants have helped, not only with tuition, but with books and other related educational expenses. It's kept many of them in college. The new increase has come at a very opportune time."
"Pell is a very important resource for students," said Delores Hawkins, director of DMACC financial aid. She said now is the time to begin applying for financial aid, including applications for Pell Grants.

Pell College Grants Increase Under Stimulus Bill


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