Grants
Grants are a form of gift aid, which means that they never have to repaid. They are based on financial need, cost of attendance, and enrollment status. Most grants are allotted on a first-come, first-serve basis. The following are examples of grants that are available to Montana students. Talk with a financial aid administrator for more information.
Federal Pell Grant:
This is the largest grant program for postsecondary education. The amount you are eligible to receive is based on your EFC (Estimated Family Contribution), the enrollment status, and the cost of attending the school. Pell Grants are usually only awarded to undergraduate students. The maximum award for the 2009-10 year is $5,350. The maximum for the 2010-2011 award year is $5,550. The maximum EFC for Federal Pell Grant eligibility in the 2010-2011 award year is 5273.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG):
If you qualify for additional assistance, you may receive a SEOG ranging
from $100 to $4,000 per year. Colleges award these grants to students
with exceptional financial need. Contact your
financial aid office for more information. The average SEOG awarded
in Montana is $600.
Montana Higher Education Grant (MHEG):
The student must have exceptional financial
need to qualify for this grant. The amount of the award is determined
by the school. The amount awarded is generally about $500. This program
is funded by the state of Montana and is matched with Federal funds.
Montana Tuition Assistance Program (MTAP)/Baker Grant:
The MTAP/Baker Grant is available for Montana residents who have earnings
greater than $2,575, have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) between
$0 and $6,550, and whose parent(s) or dependent(s) are Montana residents.
Early application is essential because
this is a limited fund. The range for the MTAP/Baker Grant is between
$100 and $1,000.