Stories

Doubling the Pell grant would help cover about 24 percent of tuition at SCU versus the current 12 percent. 

Santa Clara University along with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and additional higher education associations, organizations, and advocacy groups are asking Congress to double the Pell Grant.

As the Double Pell Alliance states on their website, “The Pell Grant has been the foundation of federal student aid for decades, opening the doors of college and opportunity to low- and moderate-income students. The Pell Grant helps nearly seven million students attend and complete college annually. Doubling the maximum annual Pell Grant award to $13,000 will help more students earn a degree, get a good-paying job, and ensure them greater economic mobility and a brighter future.”

Students receiving Pell Grants at Santa Clara University tend to have the most demonstrated financial need. Many receive multiple scholarships and grants to finance a SCU education. Every dollar counts—doubling the Pell grant would help cover about 24 percent of tuition at SCU versus the current 12 percent. With an increased Pell Grant, there could be a positive ripple down effect for many students who may have need but do not receive Pell. Students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds help bring different experiences and perspectives to the Santa Clara community. 

“As a Jesuit University, Santa Clara University is committed to promoting access and affordability, and we are proud to serve low-income and first-generation students,” said SCU Acting President Lisa Kloppenberg. “America has a historic opportunity to devote some of the $3 trillion in U.S. infrastructure funding to doubling the Pell Grant—vastly enhancing economic mobility for millions of high-achieving students who struggle to afford higher education."

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