College is expensive, but Pell Grants help Oklahoma students afford their own higher education and put them on a path to success.
Did you know your Pell Grant can also score you free cell phone service? Read on to learn how.
What Exactly is the Pell Grant Program?
The Federal Pell Grant is money for undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. These grants help cover educational expenses and don’t need to be repaid (unlike loans).
You apply for Federal Pell Grant funds by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. The amount awarded depends on your:
- Expected Family Contribution (EFC)
- Costs of your chosen college
- Enrollment status (full-time or part-time)
The maximum Pell Grant annual award is currently $7,395 for the 2023-2024 school academic year. Your specific award is determined by your school’s financial aid office based on the factors above.
Do I Qualify for a Federal Pell Grant in Oklahoma?
To receive a Federal Pell Grant, you must:
- Display financial need (determined by your EFC)
- Be an undergraduate student without a bachelor’s degree
- Be enrolled in an eligible education program
- Meet satisfactory academic progress standards
Your award amount will vary based on the cost of your school, EFC, and whether you are a full-time or part-time student. Most financial aid recipients receive between $400 to $6,895 per year.
Apply by submitting the FAFSA form as early as possible each year. Funding to attend school is limited, so complete your FAFSA promptly!
Other Oklahoma Grants for College
Beyond the Federal Pell Grant Program, Oklahoma offers other options like:
Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG)
The Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG) is a need-based grant program that provides financial assistance to Oklahoma residents attending eligible colleges, universities, and career technology centers in the state.
Students must complete the FAFSA annually to demonstrate financial need and be eligible to receive federal Pell Grants in order to qualify for OTAG awards up to $3,000 per year depending on the type of institution the student attends.
Oklahoma Tuition Equalization Grant (OTEG)
The Oklahoma Tuition Equalization Grant (OTEG) is a need-based grant program that provides financial assistance to Oklahoma residents attending private nonprofit colleges and universities in the state.
To qualify for OTEG awards up to $2,000 per year, students must complete the FAFSA annually, have an annual family income under $50,000, and be enrolled full-time at an eligible private nonprofit institution.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) provides additional financial assistance to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and are Federal Pell Grant recipients.
FSEOG awards up to $4,000 per year to eligible students based on available funding at participating schools; students must complete the FAFSA annually and have the lowest expected family contributions to qualify.
Look into these grants as well when paying for your Oklahoma education. Every bit helps cut costs!
Score Free Phone Service with Your Pell Grant
Here’s an exciting perk of receiving a Pell Grant – you can qualify for FREE wireless service and a new smartphone through the Affordable Connectivity Program and EASY Wireless!
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal benefit program that provides eligible low-income households with discounts on internet service and devices. ACP offers up to $30/month off internet bills and up to $75 for qualifying households on Tribal lands, as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 for a new tablet.
What’s even better is students with Pell Grants automatically qualify for these ACP benefits.
Qualify for ACP in Oklahoma with EASY Wireless and you’ll get more than just a discount.
Come in to one of our many retail stores and you’ll receive:
- Free Cell Phone Service with Unlimited Talk, Text & Data
- Free Smartphone for qualifying individuals
- Reliable Nationwide Coverage
- Keep Your Number or Get a New One
- No contracts or hidden fees
To enroll with EASY Wireless, you’ll need to bring a copy of your Pell Grant award letter. This acts as proof that you qualify for ACP’s free wireless service with us.
Ditch expensive wireless bills and use your Pell Grant award for free service with EASY Wireless!
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Enroll Online
Can’t make it to one of our stores? No problem. You can enroll online. Just enter your zip code and email in the box below and click “Enroll Now” to get started. It’s just that EASY.
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More Options for Free Cell Phone Service
Don’t have a Pell Grant but still want FREE Cell Phone Service with Unlimited Talk Text and Data?
Great news. There are a variety of government programs that can help eligible students qualify for the Lifeline and ACP Program in Oklahoma.
Government Assistance Programs include:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Tribally-Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal Head Start
Or qualify by income
You can also qualify through your income if it is 135% or lower of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You’ll need to provide 3 months of continuous paystubs or your most recent tax return as proof. Check out the chart below to see if you qualify.
Visit one of our stores or enroll now.
Start Saving Today!
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A Last Gift for Oklahoma Students
Students who enroll with EASY Wireless for Lifeline and ACP combined benefits or ACP benefits are automatically registered for EASY Rewards. With EASY Rewards you’ll receive vouchers that you can use to purchase FREE phone upgrades, additional lines of service, or other perks. Watch your email for your first reward.
It arrives in just 30 days!
And the longer you stay with us, the bigger the rewards grow. Just our way of saying thank you.
