Grants
The maximum Federal Pell Grant award for the 2020-2021 school year will be $6,345. This maximum award amount and the maximum eligible EFC of 5711 were established in the manner described in the paragraphs below.
The Pell Grant is one of the most popular types of federal financial aid. For many students a Pell Grant provides the foundation onto which other types of financial aid may be added. You are not required to pay back a Pell Grant after you graduate, and only undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor's degree (four-year college degree) or a professional degree (doctor, dentist, attorney, etc.) are eligible to receive a Pell Grant.
To apply for a Pell Grant, you must complete a "Free Application for Federal Student Aid" (FAFSA). The FAFSA is a standard application used to apply for financial aid at any school in the USA. You can apply online at or you can complete and mail a paper FAFSA. A paper FAFSA (including instructions) is available from your high school guidance counselor or any college financial aid office.
When you submit your FAFSA, the U.S. Department of Education uses a formula developed by congress to evaluate your eligibility. This standard formula produces an Expected Family Contribution (EFC). A Student Aid Report (SAR) containing your EFC and other important information will be mailed to your home. Each college you listed on your FAFSA will receive your EFC electronically.
The KCTCS College you attend will process your financial aid and present you with a Financial Aid Package. Your financial aid package will explain the amount of your Pell Grant and any other financial aid that you are eligible to receive for the current academic year. The Pell Grant will be paid at least once per term (semester) as long as you maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress and meet all other eligibility requirements.