10 Online Colleges That Accept Pell Grants 2025

Students demonstrating financial need may receive thousands of dollars per year through the Pell Grant. The exact amount of this federal grant is determined yearly through the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

A grant is free money that requires no repayment. For students interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree, online college grants could help them achieve an affordable education. Below, we discuss top online schools that provide financial aid for college students, including federal grants like the Pell Grant.

Online Schools That Accept the Pell Grant

Accredited online colleges provide flexible and accessible degree programs. For students who have financial need, the Pell Grant can help reduce tuition costs. Below, we explore online schools that accept the FAFSA and offer plenty of financial aid opportunities for online learners.

1. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global is committed to offering affordable online education. With fixed tuition rates and no fees for out-of-state students, the school provides a transparent and fair pricing system for all online learners.

To help lessen the burden of tuition, the school accepts FAFSA, which offers various federal financial aid programs, including

• Pell Grants
• direct loans
• direct parent PLUS loans
• direct grad PLUS loans

Those who accept federal financial aid must meet eligibility requirements and maintain academic and enrollment standards throughout the degree program.

2. Liberty University

Liberty University accepts federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant for undergraduate students. In the 2024-2025 academic year, the school accepted federal Pell Grant amounts varying from $740 to $7,395.

According to their Student Financial Services department, they accept Year Round Pell and Summer Pell Grants. To receive federal financial aid, students need to complete the FAFSA.

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers an affordable education for online students. The school offers various financial aid options, including the Pell Grant for qualifying students.

Pell Grant disbursements are calculated by enrollment intensity. So, for those who complete six credit hours per trimester, enrollment intensity would be 50% or part-time. Pell Grant amounts may change during the academic year if enrollment intensity changes.

4. Florida International University

Florida International University offers fully online bachelor's degrees in a variety of academic disciplines. To lower tuition costs, the university offers financial aid packages to online learners.

Some of the available federal financial aid options include:

• Pell Grants
• Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant
• TEACH Grant

There are additional state and institutional grants available for eligible students.

5. Illinois College

At Illinois College, students with a demonstrated financial need may qualify for the Pell Grant. Eligibility is determined by the Student Aid Index (SAI) every academic year.

Other grants may be available to Illinois college students, such as the Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP). To be considered for this grant, applicants must be legal Illinois residents and enrolled for at least three credit hours every term.

6. Parker University

Located in Texas, Parker University offers online learning degree programs. According to the university, most students receive some form of financial assistance during their schooling.

The school accepts FAFSA for federal and state aid opportunities, including the Pell Grant. Texas students may also qualify for the Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG), which is an in-state grant program for students with financial need.

7. Arizona State University

At Arizona State University, online students may go through the application process for state and federal aid opportunities. Eligible students could receive the federal Pell Grant or the Arizona state-run Financial Aid Trust Grant, which awards up to $4,000 per year.

Financial aid packages may include institutional scholarships or student loans. To maintain financial aid for the duration of your academic journey, you must meet academic and enrollment standards.

8. Hamline University

Hamline University offers online learners extensive financial aid opportunities. Students may apply for federal grants and state aid.

Once admitted, first-year students are automatically considered for institution scholarships and grants totaling up to $23,000. The university awards many types of scholarships, including ones based on academic merit.

9. San Diego State University

San Diego State University offers financial aid for online learners, including federal loans and grants. Students may also apply for work-study and scholarships.

To apply for financial aid, you'll need to complete the FAFSA. Students must meet academic and enrollment standards throughout their degree program.

10. National University

National University offers financial aid packages for incoming freshmen, including federal and state aid. Additionally, students may apply for work-study or subsidized and unsubsidized federal student loans.

For subsidized loans, students borrow money that doesn't accrue interest rates during their studies. With unsubsidized loans, interest starts during the degree program. National University also offers scholarships and tuition discounts with employer partners.

Our Selection Criteria

We chose the schools on this list based on several ranking considerations, including:

• Accreditation: We chose schools that have received accreditation and offer quality academic programs.
• Learning options: While the schools listed above may have on-campus degree programs, all institutions also offer online learning options.
• Accepts FAFSA: We chose online colleges that accept FAFSA, which includes the Pell Grant.
• Financial aid: We chose online colleges with scholarships, providing additional tuition assistance for students. Additionally, we chose online colleges with tuition payment plans for more financial flexibility for students.

Pell Grant Eligibility at Online Colleges

The Pell Grant is a federal financial aid program designed to help low-income undergraduate students cover their education costs. Eligibility for the Pell Grant is determined through the completion of FAFSA.

Students qualify for this type of financial aid by demonstrating financial need for their bachelor's degree. Pell Grants are not available to graduate students. There is a limit to the amount of Pell Grant funding a student can receive over their lifetime, which is equivalent to six years of funding (or 600% of the Pell Grant).

Using FAFSA and Other Financial Aid for Online Programs

FAFSA is the primary tool used to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. To complete the FAFSA form, you'll need information such as your Social Security number, tax returns, W-2 forms, and information about your assets. If you are a dependent, you will also need your parents' financial information.

Once your college's financial aid office receives your FAFSA information, they will send you a financial aid offer detailing the types and amounts of aid you are eligible for, including any Pell Grant awards.

What To Expect From Online Degree Programs

Online degree programs offer flexibility and accessibility for students who may not be able to attend traditional on-campus classes. Online colleges that accept transfer credits may allow you to complete your degree faster than a traditional program.

Online programs typically offer a wide range of courses, similar to those found in traditional programs. The specific courses will depend on the chosen field of study; however, a liberal arts education typically includes core classes, major classes, electives, and a capstone class or internship. The learning format varies by school, but many online programs offer asynchronous courses, allowing students to access lectures, readings, and assignments at their own pace.

Find an Online Bachelor's Degree Today

For those ready to begin an affordable online bachelor's degree, discover programs on Learn.org. Contact each school to learn more about the admissions requirements, coursework, and financial aid availability