Tuition-Free College and Enhanced Pell Grants for Students
This act aims to eliminate tuition fees at public two-year colleges and for middle- and working-class students at public four-year institutions. It significantly increases the maximum Pell Grant award, extends its duration, and expands eligibility to include Dreamer students. Additionally, it provides equity grants to institutions to improve student outcomes and boosts funding for programs supporting students.
Key points
Tuition-Free College: Eliminates tuition and required fees at public two-year colleges for all eligible students and at public four-year institutions for working and middle-class students (up to $125,000 adjusted gross income, with annual adjustments).
Increased Pell Grants: Raises the maximum Federal Pell Grant (to $12,990 for 2021-2022) and indexes it to inflation. Extends the eligibility period for Pell Grants to 7 years and 6 months.
Dreamer Student Eligibility: Expands Pell Grant eligibility to include Dreamer students who meet specific educational and immigration criteria.
Institutional Support: Provides equity grants to under-funded institutions and minority-serving institutions to invest in support programs aimed at improving student outcomes, such as academic advising, mental health counseling, and reducing class sizes.
Enhanced Funding for TRIO and GEAR UP: Increases authorization of appropriations for Federal TRIO and GEAR UP programs.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_1288
Sponsor: Sen. Sanders, Bernard [I-VT]
Process start date: 2021-04-21