Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grants (SMART)
Under the National SMART Grant Program, CUNY will identify Pell-eligible federal student aid recipients who are majoring in physical, life or computer science, engineering, mathematics, technology, or a critical foreign language. Colleges will be able to tell the student which academic programs are designated by the Department of Education as eligible for SMART Grants.
How do I qualify?
To be eligible for each academic year, a student must:
- Be a Federal Pell Grant recipient.
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (new guideline as of 7/2009).
- Be enrolled for at least six credits in a four-year degree-granting institution (new guideline as of 7/2009).
- Major in physical, life or computer science, engineering, mathematics, technology or a critical foreign language (defined as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Hebrew/Semitic, and Russian); and
- Have at least a cumulative 3.0 grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale in the coursework required for the student’s major.
For both the ACG and National SMART grant programs, the amount of the student’s grant, in combination with the student’s Federal Pell Grant, other resources and estimated financial assistance, may not exceed his financial need (cost of attendance minus the expected family contribution (EFC) equals financial need). All annual award amounts for an academic year may be reduced if sufficient funds are not available for all eligible students nationally in an award year.
How do I apply?
The college will verify your eligibility by checking your PELL eligibility, citizenship, academic records for eligible major, full time enrollment status and GPA to determine your qualification to receive the award. Thereafter, the Office of Financial Aid will contact you with the final decision.
How much can I qualify for?
An eligible student may receive a National SMART Grant of up to $4,000 for each of the third and fourth academic year of study.
When will I receive my awards?
After receiving notification from the Department of Education of your potential eligibility, the college will verify your eligibility by checking your high school transcripts to determine your qualification to receive the award. Thereafter, the Office of Financial Aid will contact you with the final decision.
