The U.S. Department of Education has reduced the duration of Federal Pell Grant eligibility from 18 semesters (or its equivalent) to 12 semesters (or its equivalent). This applies to all Federal Pell Grant eligible students effective with the 2012-2013 academic year.
Does this change affect me?
This change affects all students regardless of when or where they received their first Federal Pell Grant.
How does this change affect me?
If you received 100% of your Federal Pell Grant award for 12 semesters, you will not have any remaining Federal Pell Grant eligibility.
If you have received the Federal Pell Grant for four years or more, you may have reduced eligibility or no remaining eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant eligibility for the 2012-2013 school year.
Can I appeal my Pell lifetime eligibility?
No, you may not. Federal Pell Grant limits are set by federal law. If you rely on Federal Pell Grant funding, stay in school and be conscious about the lifetime limits when changing majors and/or scheduling classes.
How do I determine my remaining eligibility?
Lifetime Eligibility Used (LEU) is tracked by the U.S. Department of Education and is based on full-time enrollment. If you received 100% of your award for 12 semesters, you will not have any remaining Federal Pell Grant eligibility.
The U.S. Department of Education will send email messages to all FAFSA applicants who are nearing their Federal Pell Grant lifetime limit or who are no longer eligible for these funds.
For more information about calculating your remaining eligibility, visit the Federal Student Aid Pell Grant page.
How can I see my Lifetime Eligibility Used (LEU) percentage?
You will be able to log on to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) website using your FSA ID to view your LEU. The LEU will be found on the “Financial Aid Review” page.