Apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Available Grants
Grants are gift aid and are typically not repaid unless a student withdraws from the University. Only undergraduates who have not previously received a bachelor’s degree are eligible for the following grants:
Federal Pell Grants
Federal Pell Grants are available in amounts ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per academic year. The amount of the grant depends on financial need and enrollment status.
Federal regulations limit the length of time a student can receive Pell Grants. The lifetime limit for recipients of Pell Grant awards is the equivalent of 12 semesters. If a student is not full-time, the eligibility is prorated. The maximum percentage is 600% based on 50% per semester if full-time. Students may log in at http://studentaid.gov to view the lifetime amount of Pell Grant that has been received.
This grant is based on income, cost of attendance and enrollment status. Funds are awarded based on full-time (12 hours or more), ¾-time (9-11 hours), ½-time (6-8 hours) and less than half-time (1-5 hours). Often students enrolled less than half-time are not eligible for assistance.
Federal regulations require provisions to be made for Pell Grant recipients who have a credit balance on their account in order to be able to purchase books and supplies within seven days after classes begin. UM students who are eligible for Pell Grants and have an authorized/pending credit balance prior to the first day of class will be provided with the opportunity to charge books at the campus affiliated bookstore.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) with a minimum award of $100 per academic year are awarded to students with exceptional financial need. Funds for this program are limited. This grant is awarded to the neediest Pell Grant recipients based on hours of enrollment. Students are encouraged to file the FAFSA as early as possible each year for consideration.
Alabama Student Assistance Program
These state-funded grants are awarded to students with exceptional financial need who are legal residents of Alabama. This grant is awarded to Alabama residents who are among the neediest Pell Grant recipients. Funds are limited and amounts vary.