The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), administered by the U.S. Department of Education, serves as a vital financial lifeline for undergraduate U.S. students and eligible non-citizens. Unlike student loans, the FSEOG does not require repayment, except in specific circumstances, such as withdrawing early from a program. This makes it invaluable for those who need financial support and qualify for the grant.The funds are distributed directly by participating institutions, including prominent universities like Harvard University, Cornell University, and the University of North Texas. However, with limited funds and not all schools offering this grant, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria and apply early to secure this crucial financial aid.
How to Apply
To receive the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) so their college can assess their financial need. The FAFSA application is free of cost. The financial aid office at the institution will award the FSEOGs to students demonstrating the most significant financial need. Importantly, the FSEOG does not need to be repaid, except under certain circumstances, such as early withdrawal from a program.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), students must first complete the FAFSA. The FSEOG program is awarded to those with exceptional financial needs. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen
- Not possess a bachelor’s degree
- Not be in default on any federal student loans
- Not have an overpayment on a Federal Pell Grant or any other U.S. Department of Education financial aid for undergraduate students
- Complete the FAFSA application
How Much Aid Will You Receive?
Students who complete the application can receive between $100 and $4,000 a year, depending on their financial need, the timing of their application, the amount of other aid they are receiving, and the availability of funds at their respective universities. Each participating university receives a certain amount of FSEOG funds each year from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid. Once the full amount of a school’s FSEOG funds has been awarded to students, no further FSEOG awards can be made for that year.
To maintain the grant, the students need to maintain their enrollment as an undergraduate student and must not have previously earned a bachelor’s degree.
For more information, students can click on this link.