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Increased Pell Grants and Easier Access to Student Aid

This act aims to significantly increase Pell Grant amounts, helping students afford higher education. It also broadens access to this financial aid for more individuals, including low-income students and 'Dreamer' students. The changes seek to provide more stable and accessible financial support for students across the U.S.
Key points
Doubling the maximum Pell Grant award to $13,000 by the 2028-2029 academic year, with annual adjustments for inflation.
Expanding Pell Grant eligibility for students from very low-income backgrounds, including those receiving means-tested benefits.
Granting Pell Grant eligibility to 'Dreamer' students who meet specific educational or military service criteria.
Restoring the total Pell Grant eligibility period to 18 semesters (from 12), providing more time for students to complete their studies.
Relaxing academic progress rules, allowing students to receive financial aid even after a temporary dip in performance, with options to regain eligibility after a break from school.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_3946
Sponsor: Rep. Pocan, Mark [D-WI-2]
Process start date: 2021-06-16
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Pell Grant Preservation and Expansion Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_3946.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-06-16.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Doubling the maximum Pell Grant award to $13,000 by the 2028-2029 academic year, with annual adjustments for inflation.
  • Expanding Pell Grant eligibility for students from very low-income backgrounds, including those receiving means-tested benefits.
  • Granting Pell Grant eligibility to 'Dreamer' students who meet specific educational or military service criteria.
  • Restoring the total Pell Grant eligibility period to 18 semesters (from 12), providing more time for students to complete their studies.
  • Relaxing academic progress rules, allowing students to receive financial aid even after a temporary dip in performance, with options to regain eligibility after a break from school.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Pocan, Mark [D-WI-2].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in House

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Education Benefits