There is good news for students applying for financial aid for the 2007-2008 school year. Congress recently passed, and President Bush signed an increase of $260 for the maximum grant amount.

This year’s awards topped out at $4050. Beginning next fall that amount will go up to $4310. Other than the increased amount, the grant process has not changed. “When students complete the FAFSA they are automatically considered for the Pell Grant; they do not have to request it” said Annita Huff, Washburn’s director of financial aid. The FAFSA form is available through Washburn’s financial aid site at http://www.washburn.edu/financial-aid

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s web site “Grant amounts are dependent on: the student’s expected family contribution (EFC); the cost of attendance (as determined by the institution); the student’s enrollment status (full time or part time); and whether the student attends for a full academic year or less.”

Unlike other aid, including scholarships, there are no priority deadlines to apply for the Pell. “These funds are always available” said Huff. As these are grants, they do not have to be repaid.