Grants
Grants are an important source of financial aid for students who need extra help paying for college. They can be used for any educational expense and do not need to be repaid after graduation.
Many grants are based on financial need, which is determined from information provided in your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There are also merit-based grants that are awarded to students based on academic achievement, involvement in the community, or other criteria.
Because many grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, we recommend that you complete your FAFSA as early as possible to receive the maximum funds you may be eligible for. Some award amounts are prorated based on your enrollment status.
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant available to undergraduate students. Eligibility and award amount is determined each year by the FAFSA. Awards are prorated based on your enrollment status. The Pell grant ranges from $300 to over $3,000 per semester.
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant available to undergraduate students. Eligibility and award amount is determined each year by the FAFSA. Awards are prorated based on your enrollment status. The Pell grant ranges from $300 to over $3,000 per semester. The Department of Education (ED) determines Pell grant awards on a sliding scale based on the combination of two factors:
Expected Family Contribution (EFC):
Your EFC is determined by information provided on the FAFSA. The Student Aid Report (SAR) lists your EFC and details the overall FAFSA results. ED phrases the EFC as a dollar amount and it represents the expected financial contribution from you (and your family) toward the cost of your education; however, it does not imply an obligation to pay out-of-pocket. It does place all students within a “need category” designed to determine eligibility for Pell grant, Stafford Loans, etc.
Enrollment Status:
The number of credits you take in a semester determines the amount of your awarded Pell grant you may receive. Full-time enrollment provides students with the maximum Pell grant disbursement awarded for a specific semester. Pell grants pro-rate based on a student’s enrollment below full-time status. Below is a chart to help you determine what your enrollment status is for each semester:
| Enrollment Status | Number of Credits Per Semester | % of Pell Award Possible* |
|---|---|---|
| Full Time | 12+ credits | 100% |
| 3/4 Time | 9-11 credits | 75% |
| 1/2 Time | 6-8 credits | 50% |
| Less than 1/2 Time | 0-5 credits | 25% |
- * These percentages can vary depending on specific circumstances or remaining eligibility for Pell. This is simply a general guide.
How to Apply
To apply for the Pell Grant, complete and submit your FAFSA. You will have to fill out the FAFSA form every year you’re in school in order to stay eligible for federal student aid.
Students may also be eligible to receive an additional Pell Grant award in the summer. To determine your summer Pell Grant award, please register for your summer courses and then contact the Financial Aid Office to confirm your award amount.
Alaska Education Grant
The Alaska Education Grant (AEG) is a need-based grant available to undergraduate students who are Alaska residents. The AEG ranges from $750 to $2,000 each semester. The Alaska Commission on Post-Secondary Education determines eligibility for this award around the first day of classes each semester. Summer awards are usually not available. Applicants must complete the FAFSA by June 30.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity (FSEOG) Grant
The FSEOG grant is a need-based grant available to undergraduate students. Eligibility is determined by the FAFSA. The award is about $250 a semester. Summer awards may be available.
Stay on Track/University of Alaska Grant
Sophomores, juniors, and seniors taking 15 credits or more can receive $1,500 per academic year. The UAS Financial Aid Office automatically awards the Stay on Track/University of Alaska Grant to eligible students. To be considered, complete the FAFSA, register for 15 credits or more, and meet program requirements.
Federal Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant
Through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, Congress created the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program that provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low-income families. The UAS TEACH Grant Application can be found on the Financial Aid Forms Page.
Additional Grants
There are several grants administered or offered by UAS to assist with educational expenses.
Charitable Trust for Earth and Environmental Sciences
This external trust provides financial assistance for immediate or short-term monetary aid, with a focus on rural Alaska Native students.