The Pell Grant Preservation and Expansion Act of 2026 significantly increases federal financial aid for low-income college students and makes the program permanently funded. The bill doubles the maximum Pell Grant award, raising it from roughly $5,000 to $15,000 by award year 2031-2032, with subsequent annual increases tied to inflation. Starting in award year 2026-2027, grants would be $10,000 and increase by $1,000 per year until reaching the $15,000 baseline. The legislation converts Pell Grants from discretionary to mandatory funding, meaning Congress automatically appropriates whatever money is needed each year without annual budget votes. The bill also expands eligibility to include students with negative expected family contributions who would receive grants exceeding the maximum amount, restores Pell Grant access to undocumented immigrants who meet specific criteria, allows students to use grants for up to 18 semesters instead of 12, and makes it easier for students to regain aid eligibility after academic struggles. Additionally, the bill removes restrictions that previously made students ineligible if they received other scholarships. The changes take effect July 1, 2026, for the 2026-2027 academic year.
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