10 Federal Student Aid Programs and Eligibility Requirements

8. TEACH Grant

The TEACH Grant supports students who plan to teach in high-need fields at low-income elementary or secondary schools. It’s a grant, but it becomes a loan if you fail to complete the required service obligation. To qualify, file FAFSA, enroll in an eligible program, and sign an agreement to serve as a teacher for a set number of years in a qualifying school. The grant has specific academic and program requirements; schools certify eligibility and monitor service compliance. If you don’t meet the teaching commitment, the grant converts to a Direct Unsubsidized Loan, and you must repay the loan with interest retroactive to the date the grant was disbursed. Because of the conversion risk, carefully review the TEACH certification, track your service years, and keep documentation proving employment in qualifying positions and schools. If your plans change, discuss options with your financial aid office well before the service period ends to avoid unexpected loan balances.