Department of Education Guidance Expands Access to Federal Student Aid for Students in Career Pathways

In this “Dear Colleague” letter, the Department of Education clarifies important information about student eligibility for Pell Grants and student financial aid. Through the Higher Education Act’s “Ability to Benefit” provision, federal aid will be provided to students without a high school diploma (or equivalent) if they participate in career pathways programs that meet certain criteria, which are described in the guidance letter.