What is the National Smart Grant?

With the state of the economy over the past few years, lots of families are going through financial hardship. Some may not be sure if they can afford to send their kids to college. Luckily, there are lots of governments programs available for those who have a need for financial aid for school. For example, if you are a college student, eligible for a Pell Grant and planning a major in an area of science or mathematics, you may be able to plot out a financial map for the rest of your college career.

The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant is available to those majoring in physical, life, or computer sciences, mathematics, technology, engineering, a critical foreign language, or a non-major single liberal arts degree. You may be eligible to receive up to $4,000 per year if you are awarded this grant.

The SMART Grant requirements are pretty specific. You must be a U.S. citizen enrolled in your third or fourth year (or fifth year of a five-year program) of pursuing a Bachelors Degree in any of the aforementioned subjects, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. You must maintain this grade point average throughout the remainder of your studies to continue receiving the SMART Grant.

You must also be enrolled at least half time, and in at least one of the courses needed to fulfill the requirements for your major. It is also required that you be eligible for a Pell Grant, as the SMART Grant is intended as a supplement to this general grant. The best part about this is that you don't have to choose between using certain grants, scholarships, or other awards. They can be used in tandem as long as the money you receive from the SMART Grant does not put you over the total amount of your tuition, room and board, and other fees.

Getting a college degree is important these days. College graduates will go further in their careers than those who chose not to attend college. Money should not be an excuse for not pursuing a degree, as there are so many of sources for college funding out there that some money goes unused. This is a really wonderful opportunity for those of you who are majoring in these critical areas. Our nation needs great scientists and mathematicians, and the government is willing to award those who are willing to work hard and be educated in these important fields.