Pell Grants

　　Funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, room, board or other educational expenses. For the 2009-10 academic year, the maximum award amount is $976-$5,350.

　　Eligibility

　　You must be pursuing your first bachelor’s degree and meet all annual application deadlines and eligibility requirements. Only full-time students may receive the full Pell Grant amount. The grant is prorated for three-quarter, half-time or less-than-half-time enrollment. Your actual award amount is based on your financial need. You must reapply each year.

　　Estimated vs. Confirmed Pell Grant

　　If your Statement of Financial Aid Eligibility lists an Estimated Federal Pell Grant, the university must first confirm your eligibility by comparing the information you provided on the FAFSA to your and your parents' tax returns and other documentation. If corrections need to be made, we will electronically transmit them to the federal processor. When your Pell Grant is confirmed, it will automatically be credited to your student account.

　　Obtaining your funding

　　The confirmed Pell Grant is automatically credited to your student account each semester upon enrollment, but no earlier than 10 days bore the start of each semester.

　　Renewing your grant

　　You must reapply by the application deadlines and meet the eligibility requirements to be considered for a new Pell Grant. The amount awarded to you may change based upon your USC-determined financial need, housing plans and enrollment.