Several types of grants are available to students working toward a certificate in an eligible program. Grant money normally doesn't have to be repaid unless you change your enrollment status, are not making satisfactory progress toward your certificate, or you leave your program. Eligibility for most grants is established using information you and your family submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You may be eligible for federal grants, state grants, and institutional grants.

Federal Grants

Federal Pell Grant
Federal Pell Grants are generally awarded to undergraduate students. The amount you are awarded depends on your income and on what it costs for your certificate program. If you qualify for a Pell Grant, you may also be eligible for other Federal grants. Find more information on the Pell Grant click here.

Federal Academic Competitiveness Grants and SMART Grants
Unfortunately, you are not eligible for an Academic Competitiveness Grant or a SMART Grant if you're seeking a certificate because these grants are only available if you are enrolled in a degree program. Academic Grants are available during the first 2 years of a 2-year or 4-year degree program and SMART Grants are available during the 3^rd and 4^th years of a 4-year degree program.

If you would be interested in pursuing a 2-year or 4-year degree, click here for more information about these grants and other financial aid available to students enrolled in a degree program.

State Grants
Many states have individual state grant programs. Generally, you apply for these programs using the FAFSA but you should contact your financial aid office for more details.

Institutional Grants
Many schools award institutional grant as part of your financial aid package. Funding for institutional grants can come from allocations from the Federal government in the form of Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants or directly from your school's funding. These grants are awarded based on information you provide on the FAFSA.