<p>I'm a mom of 4,hoping to start classes at the local CC in spring. I have filled out my FAFSA & applied at the school,(actually at 2 CCs, I just can't decide between the two!) & my SAR report came back saying I was eligible for $5550 in pell grants. Is there still time to work all that out, and what if I can only manage half time,how will that affect my financial aid ? Will I be able to continue school in the fall ?- I am confused whether the Pell grant is for one SCHOOL year, or one CALENDAR year--? The schools are closed for Thanksgiving until Monday,so can't call & inquire. Would really appreciate any help!</p>
<p>Pell is awarded for the academic year. There shouldn’t be any problem with starting in the spring. If you’re a part time schedule you’ll receive a reduced award. Pell also considers Cost of Attendance. You should be able to estimate your award using these schedules:
<a href=“http://www.ifap.ed.gov/dpcletters/attachments/P1003PellPaymentSchedules.pdf[/url]”>http://www.ifap.ed.gov/dpcletters/attachments/P1003PellPaymentSchedules.pdf</a></p>
<p>Thank you! That’s what I thought, but wasn’t sure. I haven’t been in a classroom since '88, and am terrified, but so excited,too!</p>
<p>The pell is based on the school year. But it is divided equally between semesters (or quarters for schools on quarter system). If you are eligible for the full Pell grant and your school is on a semester system you should be eligible for one semester’s worth of Pell for the Spring, around $2,750 if you are full time. But if you are less than full time your aid will be adjusted to reflect that. For instance half time would mean you would get 1/2 the Pell for the semester, so $1,375. You will have to refile FAFSA sometime after january 1st, using 2010 income, to apply for aid for the next school year. Good luck.</p>