Need-Based Grants

Need-based grants can be awarded at the federal, state or institutional level. Because need-based grants are based on a student's individual need, they are evaluated annually when you submit your FAFSA. It is important to understand that all need-based grants, including the McDaniel Grant, are subject to change due to changes in your need. You cannot assume your grants will remain exactly the same for all four years.

Graduates in cap and gown walking across campus.

Types of Need-Based Grants

All need-based grants require you to complete the FAFSA. If you do not complete the FAFSA, you will not be considered for need-based aid.

Federal Grants

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) offers a variety of federal grants to students attending four-year colleges or universities, community colleges, and career schools.

Federal Pell Grant

Federal Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need and have not earned a bachelor's, graduate, or professional degree. A Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, generally does not have to be repaid. Pell Grant eligibility is determined by the federal government and McDaniel does not have control over whether or not a student qualifies.

The maximum Federal Pell Grant award is $6,195 for the 2019–20 award year (July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2020).

The amount you get, though, will depend on:

your Expected Family Contribution,
the cost of attendance (determined by your school for your specific program),
your status as a full-time or part-time student, and
your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

To receive FSEOG, you must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form so your college can determine how much financial need you have. The financial aid office will award FSEOGs to undergaduate students that have the most financial need. The FSEOG generally does not need to be repaid.

You can receive between $100 and $4000 a year, depending on your financial need, when you apply, the amount of other aid you get, and the availability of funds at your school. Most McDaniel students receive a maximum of $2000. You must submit your FAFSA by the Preferred Deadline of March 1 to be considered for FSEOG.

McDaniel Grant

The McDaniel Grant is a need-based grant offered by McDaniel College to eligible undergraduate students. You must complete the FAFSA to be considered for a McDaniel Grant. Once you are awarded a McDaniel Grant, your need will be checked annually. If your EFC increases more than $5000 in one year, your McDaniel Grant may be reduced.

State Grants

State Grants are available for residents of the state of Maryland. Learn more about the state grant programs. Please note that most of the state grant programs have a final FAFSA deadline of March 1.