Federal Grants are free funds, also known as "gift aid", that do not have to be repaid. Federal Grants are need-based, so eligibility is determined from information provided on the FAFSA. Federal Pell Grant Pell Grant Eligibility A student must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Pell Grant: Meet financial need as determined by the Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Please see Pell Grant Enrollment Intensity below regarding minimum unit enrollment and the Pell Grant.