Census Date and Pell Grant Policy

The initial calculation of a Federal Pell Grant award is prepared based on anticipated full-time enrollment each term. In accordance with federal regulations, the Student Financial Services staff will recalculate the Federal Pell Grant based on the student's enrollment status as of the university's published census date. After the university’s census date, a student’s Federal Pell Grant amount will be frozen and will not be adjusted for drops or adds.

If enrollment status changes PRIOR to the census date, the student’s Pell Grant award will be adjusted in accordance with their status.

Example: If a student changes from full-time enrollment to half-time enrollment prior to the census date, the student's Pell award for that semester will be reduced to the half-time award amount.

If enrollment status changes AFTER the census date, the student’s Pell Grant award will NOT adjust.

Example: If a student changes from half-time enrollment to full-time enrollment after the census date, the student's Pell award WILL NOT increase to the full-time award amount.

This policy does not apply to students who withdraw from all courses. Complete withdrawals from the university are subject to federal, state, and institutional refund policies. A Return of Title IV Funds calculation must be performed, and adjustments may be made to the Pell Grant amount based on the calculation.