Academic Competitiveness Grant

The United States Department of Education created the Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) to encourage students to take challenging courses in high school. These grants are awarded to individuals who enroll in honors and AP courses while maintaining a minimum 3.0 grade point average. High school students who pursue a rigorous academic experience are often better prepared for the demands of college. According to research, students who pursue advanced courses in high school are more likely to pursue careers in fields that are in high demand.

Academic Competitiveness Grant Eligibility

ACGs are both need-based and merit-based grants. They are only awarded to students who also qualify for Pell Grants. However, not all Pell Grant recipients will receive an ACG. Only undergraduate students who are enrolled in a full-time degree program can be considered for an ACG. Eligible students must be enrolled in either their first or second academic year of college. Students must maintain a 3.0 or higher grade point average.

Academic Competitiveness Grant Funding Amounts

Students who are awarded an ACG can receive up to $750 for their first year of college and up to $1,300 for their second year of college. When combined with a Pell Grant, the amount a student receives may not be more than the cost of attending the college. The amount a student is eligible to receive depends on that student’s financial need, how much other financial aid they have received and the total cost of attending college. ACG recipients can use their funds to pay for tuition, fees, housing or other living expenses.

How to Apply For a Academic Competitiveness Grant

The ACG program began in 2006 and expired at the end of the 2010-11 academic year.

Please see our Grants For College page for other college grants.