Pell Grants to get boost

On Feb. 2, President Bush’s State of the Union Address included education, a topic that affects a majority of Americans looking for advancement and better-paying jobs.

Bush said that under the No Child Left Behind Act, “standards are higher, tests scores are on the rise, and we are closing the achievement gap for minority students.”

That success will come at the college level by increasing the size of Pell Grants so that Americans can afford a college education. Strengthening America’s community colleges and also reforming the job training system will help workers get the training they need for a better career.

Dr. Jesus “Jess” Carreon, Dallas County Community College chancellor, said, “The stronger Pell is, the easier it is for students to attend college who do not have the money.”

Isabela Shores, the associate director of financial aid, said that Pell Grants are federal grants and the money does not have to be paid back. Students receive $4,050 maximum per year, or $2,050 per semester. They must reapply every year, but are no longer eligible after they receive their bachelor’s degree.

“Tuitions in universities are going up and the increase in the grant will help,” said Shores. You need to fill out FAFSA (Free Application For Federal Student Aid) to see whether you qualify for the grant.

The amount is given to students on a pro-rated basis according to attendance and credit hours, and they must have a passing grade of 2.0 or higher. Other requirements to be eligible for a Pell Grant include being a citizen, a resident alien, or a green card-I94 holder.

North Lake College has two deadlines during the year: before Oct. 1 and before May 1.

The application can be done two ways: on paper, which is available at the Financial Aid office room A-419 or on the Web site at www.fafsa.ed.gov. There is a tape in room K-307 in Spanish and in English that can guide students step by step.

For more information on financial assistance, contact the Financial Aid office at 972-273-3320.