Teachers need at least a bachelor's degree to teach in most schools in the United States. With the cost of a college education increasing each year, students rely on federal grants and loans to pay some of the costs of tuition and fees. Tuition and fees increased 7.9 percent for public colleges and 4.5 percent for private ones in 2010, according to the "Los Angeles Times," citing a College Board study. Increased Pell Grant funding and other grants now available for teachers ease some of the financial stress on those seeking a teaching degree.
Features
Education students and those who want to teach can follow the career path to an undergraduate degree with the assistance of the Pell Grant. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and report your financial status. Within about a month, you will receive a student aid report with a score for your expected family contribution or EFC that will indicate your potential for receiving a Pell Grant. A zero score will get the most Pell Grant funding--up to $5,550 for 2010.
Potential
If your EFC is low, contact the financial aid counselor at the college you plan to attend. Inquire about the Federal Supplemental Economic Opportunity Grant to see if you qualify. Pell Grant recipients get preference for the FSEOG, but these supplemental funds are need-based. Students may be full-time or part-time college attendees, and the awards are $100 to $4,000 a year.
Significance
When a shortage exists in a field of study, the federal funding increases to encourage entry into the field. Teachers have an anticipated shortage, and the federal government has increased funding for education of teachers. Pell Grant funds are available regardless of field of study, but special provisions exist for teaching grants. The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to education students planning to teach in schools that serve low-income students
Other Awards
The Academic Competitiveness Grant encourages students to do well in high school and take math, science and academic courses. This award requires an overall 3.0 grade point average and graduation from high school after 2005. The ACG requires application through FAFSA and is in addition to a Pell Grant, providing $750 the first year and $1,300 for second-year college students.
The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent grant provides $4,000 for the third and fourth years of college for students with a 3.0 grade point average. Availability of the SMART grant depends on field of study, encouraging math, sciences and languages and Pell Grant eligibility. These special grant programs have more restrictions and commitments than the Pell Grant.
Considerations
The Pell Grant is for students pursuing an undergraduate degree who do not already have a baccalaureate degree. Many students who have a baccalaureate degree could teach if certified, and the Pell Grant program has a special provision for certification of teachers beyond the undergraduate degree. Once you complete an undergraduate degree, inquire about teacher certification with Pell Grant funding.
Tags: Pell Grant, undergraduate degree, field study, baccalaureate degree, college students, grade point, grade point average