<p>I have recently enrolled in a local community college and am receiving Pell Grant. The problem is that I noticed that I was not given all of the funds granted me by the federal government despite the fact that I am a full time student. It is not a technical program, so I don't understand why my funds were prorated. The college is sending me a refund check that is about 700 dollars short. That extra money would go a long way in helping with various household and school related expenses. The gas expenses I pay just to drive to school are outrageous, because one of my classes is 40 miles away on a distant campus. </p>
<p>My question is, has anyone else encountered this before? Can they legally do this? Is there someone you can typically appeal to at the college level or federal level when this occurs? I am planning to go down and talk to them tomorrow but I want to be as prepared as I can be when dealing with them. If this isn't legitimate on their part I want to know all my options if this situation isn't rectified.</p>
<p>The school pays itself FIRST for any billable costs. Your refund would only be for excess funds. Look at your bursar’s account. It is very likely that the school kept that $700 because it is money owed for your cost of attending this term.</p>
<p>Thumper makes a good point. Log on to your acct and look at the breakdown.</p>
<p>You may also have had an outstanding balance from last year. Also, did you have any outstanding parking tickets on campus? If so, that balance may have “grabbed” some of your Pell Grant.</p>
<p>Turns out it was an error on their end. It might have been due to a last minute major change on my part and something didn’t get changed in the database. Anyway, apparently it’s straightened out now. </p>
<p>If any of you ever make any last minute changes just before the semester starts you might want to check everything out to make sure it’s right.</p>