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# Pell Grant Preservation and Expansion Act of 2024 This bill would significantly expand the federal Pell Grant program, which provides need-based financial aid to low-income college students. The legislation would double the maximum Pell Grant award from its current level to $14,000 by award year 2029–2030, with increases beginning in 2025–2026 when the maximum would reach $10,000. Starting in 2030–2031, the maximum award would automatically increase each year based on inflation. The bill would convert Pell Grants into a fully mandatory spending program, meaning funding would automatically be appropriated as needed rather than relying on annual congressional appropriations decisions. The bill also expands eligibility and aid amounts for students experiencing financial hardship. Students whose family financial situation qualifies them for certain federal means-tested benefits would receive an additional Pell Grant boost, and students with negative family contribution amounts could receive grants exceeding the standard maximum. The legislation would extend federal financial aid eligibility to undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children (often called "Dreamers") who meet certain residency and education requirements. Additionally, the bill restores eligibility periods for Pell Grants from 12 semesters to 18 semesters and relaxes penalties associated with satisfactory academic progress standards, giving students additional opportunities to maintain aid eligibility if they temporarily struggle academically. The bill would take effect on July 1, 2025.

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