Federal Grants
- The Pell Grant Program is a federal grant awarded to undergraduate students. Pell Grants are awarded to students who demonstrate need. The greater the need, the larger the Pell Grant (up to a maximum amount determined annually).In order to receive a Pell Grant, you must meet all eligibility requirements. Pell Grant payments normally are disbursed one-half for each semester. If you have Pell eligibility remaining you may use it for the summer session.
For Federal Pell Grant award purposes:
Full-time enrollment is 12 or more credit hours per semesterThree quarters-time enrollment is 9-11 credit hours per semester
Half-time enrollment is 6-8 credit hours per semester
Your Pell Grant is reduced proportionately for less than full-time enrollment. Generally financial aid is not available for less than six credit hours per semester. However, in some cases, less than half-time awards for Pell may be available; ask your Student Financial Services Specialist.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Each year the federal government allocates money to Columbia College Chicago for Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. The FSEOG program assists undergraduate students in good standing who are eligible for the Pell Grant and have a low EFC.
Students must have a complete financial aid file for the current academic year in order to be considered for FSEOG. Financial aid files will be reviewed in chronological order based on file completion dates. When funds are exhausted, FSEOG awards will cease.
FSEOG is usually awarded one-half for the Fall term, and one-half for the Spring term. Summer FSEOG may be awarded depending upon available funding. Payment is first applied to outstanding tuition and fee charges with the remaining balance due directly to the student. Funding is limited.
Veterans' Benefits
The Veterans' Services Coordinator provides services to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and their dependents who may be eligible for veterans' educational benefits. The Veterans' Coordinator assists in filling out and submitting forms for educational benefits. The coordinator is located within the Admissions Office.
Social Security Benefits
Certain Columbia College students may qualify for Social Security benefits. Specific information is available by contacting your local Social Security Office.
Bureau of Indian Affairs
Contact the Regional Office for more information concerning grants:
Bureau of Indian Affairs
15 South 5th Street
10th Floor
Minneapolis, MN 5502