Federal Pell Grant Under Special Rule
The FAFSA Simplification Act changed the former Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants (IASG) and Children of Fallen Heroes (CFH) programs. Beginning with the 2024-25 award year, students who meet the eligibility requirements for Pell Grants under the Special Rule in HEA Section 401(c) will receive Max Pell, regardless of their calculated SAI. To receive a Pell Grant based on eligibility under the Special Rule, a student must be:
- The child of a parent or guardian who died in the line of duty while (a) serving on active duty as a member of the Armed Forces on or after September 11, 2001; or (b) actively serving as and performing the duties of a public safety officer; and
- Less than 33 years old as of the January 1 prior to the award year for which the applicant is applying (e.g., for the 2026-27 award year, a student must be less than 33 years old as of January 1, 2026, to be eligible).
The student must be currently enrolled at Chico State, complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and submit supporting documentation to Chico State. All other Title IV student eligibility requirements must be met as well.