Pell Grants boost college access for low-income students but money is only half the story
It’s ironic that just as the U.S. poverty rate rises to its highest level in more than four decades, the Pell Grant program—the most important source of federal aid for low-income students aspiring to a college education—celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Arnold Mitchem
To be sure, there is good reason to celebrate the Pell Grant’s huge impact on expanding college access. Named after the late U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell (D-RI), the program’s need-based assistance has made it possible for 60 million students to pursue their dream of higher education, young people who otherwise would not have had the opportunity. And according to the U.S. Department of Education, the number of recipients is skyrocketing—up 52 percent since 2008, to an expected 9.4 million in award year 2011-2012—which is a direct result of the