Pell to Grad Act

HR 961, the Pell to Grad Act, extends the period students can receive Federal Pell Grants from 12 to 16 semesters. It specifically allows students who completed their first undergraduate degree with Pell Grant funding (for at least 1 but fewer than 16 semesters) to continue using Pell Grants for a subsequent postbaccalaureate program at an eligible institution. The bill modifies the Higher Education Act to include this extension, requiring students to have exhausted their initial undergraduate eligibility but still meet duration limits. This change directly affects students pursuing postbaccalaureate credentials like teaching certification or medical preparatory programs after earning their bachelor's degree.