Common questions about campus grants.
These answers cover general information about college grant programs. Always verify specifics with your school's financial aid office or official government sources.
What is a campus-based grant?
Campus-based grants are financial aid awarded directly by a college or university from its own funds. They can be need-based, merit-based, or tied to a specific program or department. Campus-based grants are separate from federal programs like the Pell Grant, though a school may use your FAFSA data to determine campus grant eligibility.
What is the difference between a grant and a student loan?
Grants are financial aid that generally do not need to be repaid, provided you meet the terms of the award such as enrollment and academic requirements. Student loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest after you leave school or drop below half-time enrollment.
How do I find out what campus grants my school offers?
Contact your school's financial aid office directly and ask what institutional grants are available, what criteria are used to award them, and whether you need to submit any additional forms beyond FAFSA. Many schools also publish their grant programs on their financial aid website.
Does FAFSA affect campus grant eligibility?
Yes. Most schools use your FAFSA data — specifically your Student Aid Index — to determine eligibility for need-based campus grants. Filing FAFSA early is important because many campus grants have limited funds and are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
What is SEOG and how is it different from the Pell Grant?
The Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) is a federal campus-based grant program administered directly by schools. Unlike the Pell Grant, which is awarded to all eligible students, SEOG funds are limited and allocated to schools in fixed amounts. Not every eligible student receives SEOG — schools prioritize students with the greatest need who file FAFSA earliest.
Can I receive both campus grants and federal grants?
Yes. Campus-based institutional grants and federal grants like the Pell Grant can often be received simultaneously. Many students receive aid packages that combine multiple funding sources. Your total aid package cannot exceed your cost of attendance, but receiving one type of grant does not automatically disqualify you from others.
Can I appeal my campus grant offer?
Yes. Most schools offer a financial aid appeal or professional judgment process. If your financial circumstances have changed significantly since you filed FAFSA, you can request a review from your school's financial aid office with supporting documentation.
Does this site help me apply for campus grants?
No. Campus Grants is an informational resource only. We do not process applications, determine eligibility, or represent any school, government agency, or funding program. For institutional grants, contact your school's financial aid office directly.