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To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to change certain Federal Pell Grant requirements for certain students with disabilities, and for other purposes.
12/30/2022, 7:34 AM
Summary of Bill HR 5739
Specifically, the bill proposes to streamline the application process for students with disabilities, making it easier for them to access Pell Grants. It also aims to increase the amount of funding available to these students, recognizing the additional expenses they may incur due to their disabilities. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to ensure that students with disabilities have access to the support services they need to succeed in higher education.
Overall, the Pell Grant Equality for Students with Disabilities Act seeks to level the playing field for students with disabilities, ensuring that they have equal access to financial aid and support services to help them pursue their educational goals.
Congressional Summary of HR 5739
This bill revises certain requirements under the Federal Pell Grant Program for students with disabilities.
Currently, Pell Grant awards are based on enrollment status and a student must attend an institution of higher education (IHE) on a full-time basis in order to receive the maximum award amount. This bill provides an exception for a student with a disability who is receiving appropriate and reasonable accommodations for such disability. Specifically, the bill requires the amount of a Pell Grant to be calculated as if such a student is attending an IHE on a full-time basis, without regard to whether the student is attending less than full time.
Additionally, the bill extends the period of time during which a student with a disability may receive a Pell Grant. In particular, the bill allows a student to exceed the current 12-semester limit to complete the first undergraduate baccalaureate course of study if required by the student's accommodations.
