General Information on the National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant

Beginning fall 2006, college students will be able to start benefiting from the National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) grant program.  The purpose of this new federal grant program is to encourage college students to pursue majors in high demand in the global economy. The SMART grant will provide eligible students with financial assistance in their last two years of college.

General eligibility requirements: to qualify for this grant program, students must (1) be eligible for Federal Pell grant aid; (2) a United States citizen; (3) enrolled in college full-time.

Guidelines for SMART Grant Program:

Maximum award: $4,000 for each of the 3^rd and 4^th years of college

• Students must maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average in their area of study to qualify for, and continue to receive, this grant; and
• Students must be enrolled in a four-year degree granting postsecondary institution; and
• Students must pursue a college major in mathematics or science (for a complete list of approved majors, please go to: http://www.ifap.ed.gov).

Higher education institutions will identify eligible students based on their financial aid information, and major submitted. Documentation (payment records) for students receiving the SMART grant will need to be submitted to the Department of Education.  For students and postsecondary institutions interested in additional information on the SMART grant program, please visit: http://ifap.ed.gov/dpcletters/GEN0604.html

For more information on the SMART grant, please go to www.ed.gov or call 1-800-USA-LEARN.