Myth: Pell Grants are loans that need to be repaid.

Fact: Pell Grants are not loans; they are need-based grants. Unlike loans, Pell Grants do not require repayment, making them a valuable form of financial assistance for eligible students.

Myth: Only students with perfect grades can receive Pell Grants.
Fact: Pell Grants are awarded based on financial need, not academic merit. While academic performance may be a factor in other scholarship applications, Pell Grants primarily consider a student's family income and the cost of attendance at the chosen institution.

Myth: Only minority students qualify for Pell Grants.

Fact: Pell Grants are available to all eligible undergraduate students, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background. The primary determining factor is the financial need of the student and their family.

Myth: Pell Grants are only available to full-time students.

Fact: Pell Grants can be awarded to both full-time and part-time undergraduate students, depending on their financial need and enrollment status. Part-time students may receive a reduced amount compared to full-time students.

Myth: If you receive a Pell Grant, you can't get other financial aid.

Fact: Pell Grants can be combined with other forms of financial aid, such as scholarships, federal student loans, work-study programs, and other grants. The combination of aid is often referred to as a financial aid package, designed to meet the student's demonstrated financial need.

Myth: Once you receive a Pell Grant, you'll always get it in subsequent years.

Fact: Pell Grant eligibility is determined each academic year based on the student's financial circumstances, enrollment status, and other factors. While students may receive Pell Grants for multiple years, their eligibility can change if their financial situation or other circumstances change.

Myth: Undocumented students can receive Pell Grants.

Fact: Unfortunately, undocumented students, including DACA recipients, are not eligible for federal financial aid programs like Pell Grants. However, some states or colleges may offer institutional financial aid or scholarships to undocumented students.

Myth: Pell Grants cover all college expenses.

Fact: Pell Grants provide financial assistance, but they may not cover the entire cost of attendance at a college or university. The amount of the Pell Grant is determined based on the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and the cost of attendance at the specific institution.

It's essential for students and their families to understand the accurate information about Pell Grants to make informed decisions about financing their education. Students can learn more about Pell Grants and other financial aid options by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and consulting with their college's financial aid office.