Info About Federal and State Grants

Grants are one of the best types of financial aid because they provide real funding you don’t have to pay back. These awards are typically based on financial need and are designed to make college more affordable for students from a variety of backgrounds.

There are several types of federal student aid grants and one specialized grant/loan combination. All grants are awarded according to financial need, as determined from the information you submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who are eligible for federal student aid have their eligibility for federal grants evaluated after completing the FAFSA. Additional information on these and other federal financial aid programs can be found at the U.S. Department Of Education’s Federal Student Aid Website. 

Where Grants Come From

Grants are offered through multiple sources—including the federal government, the State of Pennsylvania, and Cheyney University. Each program has its own requirements and award amounts, but all share the same goal: helping you focus on learning, not worrying about cost. Let’s take a look at some different types of grants.

Federal Pell Grant

Federal Pell Grants are need-based grants provided to first time degree-seeking undergraduate students. Eligibility for this federal grant is determined by using the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the school’s cost of attendance and the student’s enrollment status. Award amounts change yearly. Please visit Federal Student Aid to view the maximum Federal Pell Grant award for the current academic year. Students can also come by the Office of Student Financial Services (SFS) for assistance with financial aid questions or completing the FAFSA. Who’s my parent when I fill out my FAFSA? 

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

FSEOG is a grant for which funding is provided to Cheyney University by the Federal Department of Education. Awards are made to undergraduate, first degree seeking students with exceptional financial need. Priority is given to students who receive Federal Pell Grant awards. Award amounts may vary from year to year based on federal funding and student eligibility. Students are encouraged to file their FAFSA as early as possible to be considered for this grant.

State Grants

State grants are available to eligible state residents who complete the FAFSA and their respective state’s application. Click here to find out what state grants are available.