Online Colleges That Accept Pell Grants in Louisiana 2026

Louisiana’s public university systems, including the Louisiana State University (LSU) and University of Louisiana (UL) systems, have expanded online degree offerings to serve students across the state. These institutions provide undergraduate pathways in business, health sciences, criminal justice, and technology fields designed to accommodate working adults and transfer students.

For students researching affordable options, comparing accredited online colleges that accept Pell Grants can clarify which Louisiana institutions allow federal funding to be applied toward approved undergraduate programs. Many public universities throughout the state participate in Title IV federal financial aid programs, making Pell Grants available to eligible online learners.

What Is a Pell Grant and Who Qualifies?

The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based award available to undergraduate students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and demonstrate financial need. Unlike federal student loans, Pell Grants typically do not require repayment as long as students remain eligible and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Award amounts are determined annually and depend on financial circumstances, enrollment status, and federal funding limits. To receive Pell funding, students must enroll in an eligible undergraduate program at an accredited institution that participates in Title IV federal financial aid programs.

Do Online Colleges in Louisiana Accept Pell Grants?

Many accredited colleges and universities in Louisiana participate in Title IV federal financial aid programs, allowing eligible students to apply Pell Grant funding toward approved online bachelor’s and degree-completion programs. Public institutions within the LSU and UL systems regularly distribute federal aid to qualifying undergraduate students.

Eligibility depends on both institutional participation and program approval status. Students should confirm that their chosen online pathway qualifies for Pell funding and review financial aid disclosures before enrolling to ensure funds can be applied appropriately.

10 Online Colleges That Accept Pell Grants in Louisiana

Louisiana’s public university systems anchor much of the state’s online undergraduate access, offering both fully online bachelor’s degrees and completion pathways across a wide range of disciplines. The institutions below are accredited public universities where eligible students may apply Pell Grant funding toward approved online programs.

1. LSU Online 

LSU Online, based at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, offers fully online bachelor’s programs in construction management, business analytics, sports management, and sociology. As the flagship campus of the LSU system, the university integrates research-driven curriculum with structured digital learning platforms for remote students.

Louisiana State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and participates in Title IV federal financial aid programs. Eligible undergraduate students enrolled in approved online programs may apply Pell Grant funds toward tuition and required fees in accordance with federal guidelines.

2. LSU Shreveport 

LSU Shreveport (LSUS) has developed a strong online presence, offering bachelor’s programs in business, psychology, digital arts, and criminal justice. The institution is frequently noted for delivering career-aligned programs with competitive tuition relative to projected earnings outcomes.

LSU Shreveport is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in Title IV federal financial aid programs. Pell Grant recipients enrolled in eligible undergraduate online programs may use their awards to reduce tuition expenses, provided they meet FAFSA and satisfactory academic progress requirements.

3. University of Louisiana at Monroe 

The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) provides more than 35 online programs, including undergraduate degrees in health studies, psychology, and risk management and insurance. ULM’s digital offerings are designed to increase access for students across rural and urban areas of the state.

The University of Louisiana at Monroe is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs. Eligible students enrolled in approved online bachelor’s pathways may apply Pell Grant funding toward tuition and mandatory educational expenses.

4. Northwestern State University 

Northwestern State University (NSU) offers online bachelor’s programs in computer information systems, addiction studies, and unified public safety administration. The university emphasizes workforce-oriented curriculum that aligns with public service and technology sectors within Louisiana.

Northwestern State University is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in Title IV federal financial aid programs. Undergraduate students enrolled in eligible online programs may apply Pell Grant funds toward tuition and required fees under federal eligibility standards.

5. University of Louisiana at Lafayette 

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) delivers online bachelor’s programs in health systems management, nursing (RN-to-BSN), and general studies. Many of these programs are structured to support transfer students and working professionals completing upper-division coursework remotely.

UL Lafayette is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs. Eligible undergraduate students enrolled in approved online programs may apply Pell Grant funding to offset tuition and mandatory costs in accordance with federal regulations.

6. Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University offers online undergraduate programs in communication, criminal justice, and family and consumer sciences. The university has expanded digital access in recent years to support students balancing employment and academic commitments across the region.

Southeastern Louisiana University is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in Title IV federal financial aid programs. Eligible undergraduate students enrolled in approved online programs may apply Pell Grant funding toward tuition and required educational expenses.

7. McNeese State University

McNeese State University provides online bachelor’s pathways in business administration, criminal justice, sociology, and nursing. As a regional public institution, McNeese emphasizes accessible tuition structures and flexible scheduling options for distance learners.

McNeese State University is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs. Pell Grant recipients enrolled in eligible undergraduate online programs may use their awards to reduce tuition costs in accordance with federal eligibility guidelines.

8. Louisiana Tech University

Louisiana Tech University delivers online bachelor’s programs in health informatics, communication, management, and educational technology. The university integrates technology-focused coursework with structured online learning environments designed to support remote student engagement.

Louisiana Tech University is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in Title IV federal financial aid programs. Eligible students enrolled in approved online undergraduate programs may apply Pell Grant funds toward tuition and mandatory fees, subject to FAFSA completion and satisfactory academic progress standards.

9. Loyola University New Orleans

Loyola University New Orleans is a private nonprofit institution offering online bachelor’s programs in marketing, psychology, nursing, and criminology. The university is known for its student support services and has historically enrolled a significant number of Pell Grant recipients.

Loyola University New Orleans is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs. Eligible undergraduate students enrolled in approved online programs may apply Pell Grant funding toward tuition and required expenses under federal aid regulations.

10. LSU Alexandria 

LSU Alexandria (LSUA) provides fully online bachelor’s programs in fields such as elder care administration, business, and English. The institution is often recognized as one of the more affordable options within the LSU system, particularly for in-state students.

LSU Alexandria is regionally accredited by SACSCOC and participates in Title IV federal financial aid programs. Eligible undergraduate students enrolled in approved online programs may apply Pell Grant funds toward tuition and mandatory educational costs in accordance with federal guidelines.

How We Rank Schools

To develop this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and official institutional publications. Because Pell Grants are federal awards, we prioritize schools that maintain recognized accreditation and confirmed participation in Title IV financial aid programs.

Our evaluation focuses on public and nonprofit institutions in Louisiana that provide accessible online undergraduate or degree-completion pathways. In addition to accreditation and federal aid participation, we assess program availability, tuition transparency, and the clarity of financial aid disclosures to help students compare options confidently.

• Accreditation: Each school holds regional accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring eligibility to distribute federal student aid.
• Federal Financial Aid Participation: Institutions must participate in Title IV programs and offer Pell-eligible undergraduate pathways.
• Online Accessibility: Schools must provide fully online or substantially online degree options designed for remote learners.
• Affordability and Transparency: We review publicly available tuition data and cost-of-attendance information to help students evaluate potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Learn more about our ranking methodology.

How Much Does It Cost to Attend an Online College in Louisiana With a Pell Grant?

Tuition in Louisiana varies based on residency classification and whether a student enrolls in a public university or a private nonprofit institution. Universities within the LSU and University of Louisiana systems typically offer lower in-state tuition rates, while private institutions may have higher base tuition but sometimes provide institutional grants that supplement federal aid.

The amount awarded through the Federal Pell Grant depends on financial need, enrollment intensity, and annual federal limits. At lower-cost public universities, a full Pell Grant may cover a substantial portion of tuition and required fees, though students should still plan for indirect expenses such as textbooks, technology, and living costs when calculating total attendance expenses.

How To Choose the Right Online College in Louisiana If You Receive a Pell Grant

Selecting an online program requires evaluating both affordability and long-term academic fit. Because continued Pell eligibility depends on maintaining satisfactory academic progress, students should consider whether a program’s pacing and structure align with their work schedules and preparation levels.

When comparing Louisiana institutions, review the following:

• Accreditation and Title IV Participation: Confirm that the university holds recognized regional accreditation and participates in federal financial aid programs.
• Program Delivery Model: Determine whether courses are fully online, structured as degree-completion pathways, or offered in accelerated terms.
• Residency and Tuition Policies: Review in-state tuition eligibility and how Pell funding applies after mandatory fees are included.
• Field of Study Alignment: Compare programs with Louisiana’s workforce sectors, including healthcare, public safety, energy, and business services.
• Academic and Financial Support: Look for advising, tutoring, and financial aid counseling that can help you remain eligible for federal funding throughout your degree.

Careful planning can help ensure that Pell Grant funding supports steady academic progress without creating avoidable financial gaps.

FAQs About Online Colleges That Accept Pell Grants in Louisiana

Federal financial aid policies can vary depending on enrollment status and institutional participation. The following questions address common concerns students have when evaluating Pell-eligible online programs in Louisiana.

Can You Use a Pell Grant at Public Universities in Louisiana?

Yes, eligible students may use Pell Grants at accredited public universities in Louisiana that participate in Title IV federal financial aid programs. Approved undergraduate online programs generally qualify, provided students complete the FAFSA and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Do RN-to-BSN Programs Qualify for Pell Grants?

Many RN-to-BSN programs qualify for Pell funding if they are structured as approved undergraduate pathways at Title IV-participating institutions. Students should confirm eligibility with the financial aid office, particularly when clinical or licensing requirements are involved.

Can Pell Grants Be Used at Private Universities in Louisiana?

Pell Grants may be applied at private nonprofit institutions in Louisiana if the college participates in federal financial aid programs. Because tuition rates differ, students should review institutional scholarships and grants alongside federal awards to estimate potential out-of-pocket costs.

Are Degree-Completion Programs Eligible for Pell Funding?

Degree-completion programs may qualify if they are approved undergraduate programs offered by Title IV-participating institutions. Students who have already earned transferable credits should verify that their remaining coursework meets federal aid eligibility requirements.

Can Part-Time Online Students Receive Pell Grants?

Part-time undergraduate students may receive Pell Grant funding if they meet federal eligibility criteria, although the award amount is prorated based on enrollment intensity. Maintaining satisfactory academic progress is required to continue receiving funding in future academic terms.

Explore Online Colleges That Accept Pell Grants in Louisiana

Federal Pell Grants can make accredited online education in Louisiana more financially accessible for eligible undergraduate students. Visit Learn.org to explore online colleges that accept Pell Grants, compare Louisiana programs, and request information to help guide your next academic step.