College is expensive, but you do not have to cover it all with loans. Grants for college students are free money for school that you do not repay. This guide explains the main federal, state and college grants for 2026, how much you can get and how to apply – plus how grants differ from scholarships.
Quick List: Grants for College Students
| Grant | Amount (approx.) | Based on |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Up to $7,395 per year (2025–26) | Financial need |
| FSEOG | $100 – $4,000 per year | Exceptional need, school funding |
| TEACH Grant | Up to about $4,000 per year | Future teachers (service required) |
| Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant | Up to the Pell maximum | Child of a service member who died in service |
| State grants (e.g. Cal Grant) | Varies by state | Need and/or merit |
| College institutional grants | Varies by school | Need and/or merit |
Also see:
- Grants for Single Moms 2026: 7 Programs That Don’t Need to Be Repaid
- Hardship Grants for Individuals 2026: 7 Real Ways to Get Emergency Help
1. Federal Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is the largest federal grant for undergraduates. For the 2025–26 award year the maximum is $7,395. Your amount depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI), your school’s cost and whether you study full or part time.
- Who qualifies: undergraduates with financial need who do not yet have a bachelor’s degree.
- How to apply: FAFSA. Learn more on studentaid.gov.
2. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
FSEOG gives extra money to students with exceptional financial need, usually Pell recipients. Each college receives limited funds, so apply early – once the money runs out, it is gone for the year. Federal funding for this program can change, so check with your financial aid office.
3. TEACH Grant
For students who plan to become teachers in a high-need subject at a low-income school. Important: you must teach for four years within eight years of finishing your program, or the grant turns into a loan that you must repay with interest.
- More info: studentaid.gov – TEACH Grant.
4. Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant
For students whose parent or guardian died as a result of military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after 9/11 and who meet age and enrollment rules.
5. State Grants
Most states offer their own grants to residents attending in-state colleges – for example the Cal Grant in California, TAP in New York and the Texas Grant. Many use your FAFSA, but some have extra forms and early deadlines. Find your state agency on studentaid.gov.
6. College (Institutional) Grants
Colleges give their own need-based and merit grants, often listed in your financial aid offer. Private universities with large endowments can be very generous – sometimes covering full tuition for lower-income families.
Grants for International Students
Federal grants like Pell are only for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. International students should look at university scholarships and government scholarships instead. Browse our latest fully funded scholarships and scholarships without IELTS.
Grants vs Scholarships: What’s the Difference?
Both are free money. Grants are usually based on financial need and come from the government or your college. Scholarships are often based on merit, talent or background and come from many sources. The best plan is to apply for both.
Check:
- Startup Business Grants With No Revenue (2026 Guide)
- Grants for Single Moms 2026: 7 Programs That Don’t Need to Be Repaid
How to Get the Most Grant Money
- Submit the FAFSA as soon as it opens.
- Check your state’s grant deadline – some are very early.
- Ask your college about institutional grants and appeal if your family situation changed.
- Stay enrolled and keep good grades to keep your grants each year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do college grants have to be paid back?
Usually no. You might owe money back if you withdraw early, drop below the required enrollment or do not complete the TEACH Grant service.
Can I get a Pell Grant and a scholarship together?
Yes. Your total aid cannot be more than your cost of attendance, but you can combine grants and scholarships.
Can graduate students get grants?
Pell is for undergraduates only, but graduate students can receive the TEACH Grant, university fellowships and research grants.
Amounts are taken from official U.S. Department of Education information and can change each award year – always confirm on studentaid.gov.
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