Student Grants
Information about Grant Aid
There are several types of grants available to PCHS undergraduate students. The eligibility for these grants is determined by completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) as well as the specific requirements of each program. These programs are:
Federal Pell Grant
What is a Federal Pell Grant?
The Federal Pell Grant Program provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate students to promote access to postsecondary education. Federal Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional need and who have not earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) must be submitted for consideration.
Federal Pell Grants are a form of financial assistance that does not require repayment except under certain circumstances.
How much can a student receive in 2026-27? (Estimated)
Maximum award: $7,395
Minimum award:$740
Note: Funding is subject to Federal Budget allocation and Congressional action and subject to change.
Students FAFSA® Submission Summary notes student’s Pell eligibility.
Key Information:
Pell Grant awards are determined using the Student Aid Index (SAI), with eligibility calculated by subtracting the SAI from the annual maximum award; students whose calculated amount falls below the minimum are not eligible. The U.S. Department of Education considers factors such as tax filing status, family size, federal poverty guidelines, and state of residence when determining eligibility. Award amounts may change based on enrollment intensity or updates to the SAI, and institutions recalculate Pell awards through the census date or if a student does not attend all enrolled classes. Additionally, Pell Grant funds may be taxable if used for non-qualified educational expenses, and students are encouraged to consult a tax advisor in such cases.
How to stay eligible?
- File a FAFSA® each year.
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress.
- Meet federal eligibility criteria.
Aggregate Lifetime Limit: Students may receive up to 12 semesters ( or its equivalent) of the Federal Pell Grant.
Federal SEOG Grant
What is a Federal SEOG Grant?
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) Program provides additional need-based grants to low-income undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. The program is designed to promote access to postsecondary education. A Federal SEOG grant is a form of gift aid that does not have to be repaid, except under certain circumstances.
Key Information
Availability for Federal SEOG Grants are subject to federal funding and are therefore subject to change or elimination based on Congressional action.
How much can a student receive?
For the 2026-2027 academic year funding levels have not been finalized. Students who qualify for maximum Pell based on their 2026-27 FAFSA® receive an estimated award of $500 Federal SEOG grant based on projected funding availability at the time of Packaging. This is estimate is subject to adjustment.
Who is eligible?
Federal Pell Grant recipients who demonstrate the highest need level.
Eligibility is determined by FAFSA® data.
The U.S. Department of Education determines student’s eligibility for a Federal Pell Grant by using a standard formula, established by Congress, to evaluate the financial information reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).
The award amount is subject to change based on changes in enrollment or corrections/adjustments to the SAI.
Enrollment is based on degree applicable coursework.
Tuition Assistance Program
What is TAP?
The New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) administered by New York State Higher Education Services (NYSHESC) helps eligible New York state residents pay tuition at approved schools in New York State. An annual TAP Award can range from $1,000 to $5,665. TAP is a grant and it does not traditionally have to be paid back. Students must enroll full-time in degree appliable coursework each semester for consideration, meet state eligibility requirements and state Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements. Funding and eligibility requirements for TAP are contingent on the State Budget and state regulations and are subject to change.
Who is eligible?
For a complete listing of all eligibility requirements please visit hesc.ny.gov
Why is my TAP award estimated?
St. John’s estimates a TAP award for all New York State residents who file a FAFSA®. This estimate is based on the income information reported on the FAFSA® and is subject to change based on changes to the FAFSA® and/or based on New York State income verification.
What determines the amount of the award?
The award amount is determined by:
- Academic year in which first payment of TAP or any state award is received
- Type of postsecondary institution and the tuition charge
- Combined family NYS net taxable income
- Financial status (dependent or independent)
- Other family members enrolled
What must I do now?
When you filed your FAFSA® you were prompted to complete a TAP application through HESC, if you did so, no further action is required as long as St. John’s is the school on your TAP application. If you did not complete the TAP application or if you are ineligible for federal aid and qualify under the NYS Dream Act, please go to www.hesc.ny.gov to file a TAP application.
How can I view my TAP application status or change my school code?
You may view your application status and/or make school code changes online by visiting www.hesc.ny.gov , or calling 1-888-NYS-HESC.
What is PCHS school code?
Undergraduate 0605
Graduate 6140
FAFSA® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Education