Most Alabama high school seniors qualify for Pell Grants of up to $6,435.

To put it simply, federal student aid is money from the federal government to pay for college. In many instances, this is money that does not need to be paid back, like grants or scholarships. In order to access these funds, you and your student need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). (Even if you’re already thinking you may not qualify for the full amount, many colleges (including Alabama’s community colleges) still use information from a completed FAFSA to determine scholarships and other financial aid.)

The GREAT news is that most Alabama high school seniors qualify for Pell Grants of up to $6,435. And guess what? Max Pell covers the cost of full-time tuition and fees at Alabama’s community colleges. For less than an hour of your time and $0 your student could be well on their way to funding their college education.

Let’s put it this way, free money is on the table. You just have to fill out the FAFSA to get it. Alabama’s community colleges are experts on the FAFSA and are here to help. Check out the resources below and/or reach out to a college near you. We’re here to help.