Federal Grants Based on Need

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants

A Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is a grant for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. It doesn't need to be repaid. The grant can help eligible students pay for education costs such as tuition, books, and room and board.

Who qualifies as having "exceptional financial need"?

Students with the greatest financial need - as determined by their Student Aid Index (SAI) - are given priority. The SAI is calculated from the financial information you provide on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Priority for FSEOG awards also goes to students who are receiving Federal Pell Grants.

Do I have to repay the grant?

No. Like Pell Grants, the FSEOG does not have to be repaid.

That sounds a lot like a Federal Pell Grant. What is the difference?

The key difference is availability:

  • Federal Pell Grant - Every eligible student receives the award; funding is guaranteed for all who qualify.

  • FSEOG - Funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis by each school. Once a school's funds are spent, no more awards can be made that year, even if you qualify.

Because of this, it's important to apply as early as possible. Each school sets its own FSEOG deadlines.

How much can I receive?

The annual award amount ranges from $100 to $4,000, depending on:

  • Your financial need

  • When you apply

  • Your school's funding level for FSEOG

  • Your school's financial aid policies

How will I receive the money?

Your school will either:

  • Credit the funds to your student account

  • Pay you directly (usually by check)

  • Use a combination of both

Schools must pay students at least once per academic term (semester, trimester, or quarter). If your school does not use traditional terms, you must be paid at least twice per academic year.

How can I find out more?

For more information on student financial assistance programs, contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center:

Link: StudentAid.gov

Phone: 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243)

TTY: 1-800-730-8913

Spanish speakers are available (se habla espanol)