September 19, 2008

High school seniors counting on a Pell Grant to help with college costs next year may face fierce competition for the government funds.  

According to estimates from the Department of Education, Congress will need close to $6-billion in additional funds from taxpayers to provide for the increase in demand of Pell Grants.  The New York Times reports:

 “As of July 31, 800,000 more students had applied for grants than on that date last year, according to the memorandum, which called the increase one of the largest ever year to year.  This year, more than six million low-income college students will receive Pell Grants ranging from $431 to $4,731, federal officials said.”

Localize this story:

  • Tell the stories of seniors who plan to apply for Pell Grants. What are their options, if fundind doesn’t come through?
  • Interview your Congressman about the Pell Grant crisis.
  • Talk to guidance counselors and show students other resources for finding scholarships and financial aid.

Click here for more information on the Pell Grant program. 


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Amanda Smith is an undergraduate student in the Journalism and Media Studies program at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg where she is the…
Amanda Smith

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