Federal Pell Grant

The majority of financial aid granted to Caltech undergraduates comes from grants.  Awards are considered "gift aid": they do not have to repaid or earned.  Because of this, grants are the most beneficial form of financial aid.

All scholarships and grants at Caltech are need-based, as the Institute does not have a merit aid program.  Undergraduate students who fill out a financial aid application will be automatically considered for scholarships and grants from Caltech and the federal government.  Awards are also available from state governments, but the application process varies by state.

Eligibility Criteria/ Scholarship Guidelines

The Federal Pell Grant is considered the "base" of a student's financial aid package.  It is the first program for which a student's eligibility is determined.

Students who have filled out the FAFSA will be automatically considered for a Pell Grant.

Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who:

Have exceptional need.

Have not yet completed a baccalaureate degree.

Are eligible for federal student aid (most domestic students).

Value
Up to $5,730, though the amount awarded will vary based on the student's calculated family contribution and enrollment status.

Deadline
Fall Term- November 22, Winter Term- February 28, Spring Term- May 22

Validity
Students may only receive Pell Grant for up to 18 quarters (six years).