The initiative, resulting from the FAFSA Simplification Act, allows institutions of higher education to offer postsecondary programs to confined or incarcerated individuals, granting them eligibility for Pell Grants.
The initiative, resulting from the FAFSA Simplification Act, allows institutions of higher education to offer postsecondary programs to confined or incarcerated individuals, granting them eligibility for Pell Grants.
The United States Department of Education is launching a new application process to expand access to Federal Pell Grants for incarcerated individuals.
The initiative, resulting from the FAFSA Simplification Act, allows institutions of higher education to offer postsecondary programs to confined or incarcerated individuals, granting them eligibility for Pell Grants. It marks the first time in nearly 30 years that approved prison education programs will be eligible for Pell Grants outside of the Second Chance Pell Experiment.
Starting from July 3, institutions can submit applications on a rolling basis. Once approved, they can provide eligible confined or incarcerated individuals with access to Pell Grants.
The reinstatement of Pell Grants for prison education programs is estimated to benefit approximately 760,000 additional individuals as institutions develop their programs, the government said.
The Second Chance Pell Experiment, although limited in scope, has already demonstrated its potential to expand opportunities for incarcerated individuals. Over 40,000 students received Pell Grants through the experiment during the 2021-22 award year. The full reinstatement of Pell Grants will enable even more incarcerated individuals to pursue degrees, credentials, and skills for a brighter future.
Education Secretary Miguel Cardona has called on colleges and postsecondary programs to support individuals impacted by the criminal justice system.
He emphasized the transformative power of prison education programs in reducing recidivism rates, fostering redemption and rehabilitation, and strengthening communities.
To ensure the effectiveness of prison education programs, the Department finalized regulatory requirements. Starting from July 1, eligible institutions must adhere to established standards for implementing effective programs.
These requirements define prison education programs as outlined in the Higher Education Act of 1965, establish application guidelines, and clarify the obligations of institutions, accrediting agencies, and oversight entities.
Institutions can submit their applications through the Federal Student Aid E-App starting on July 3. They must include the completed Prison Education Program Application Form for consideration.
Detailed instructions, certifications, and signatures required for evaluation are available in an Electronic Announcement on the Federal Student Aid Partner Connect Portal. The PEP Application Form can be accessed on the Prison Education Program topics page of the Knowledge Center.
Currently, nearly 200 postsecondary institutions participate in the Second Chance Pell Experiment, providing Federal Pell Grant funding to incarcerated students.
Over 160 institutions have been approved to transition into a revised version of the experiment, extending support to confined or incarcerated students beyond July 1, 2023. These institutions have up to three years to seek department approval for the prison programs they intend to offer under the new regulations.
Prison education programs offer benefits beyond individual educational attainment. They contribute to transforming the culture, climate, and safety of correctional facilities.
Research conducted by the RAND Corporation, funded by the Department of Justice, reveals that participants in these programs have a 43 percent lower recidivism rate and a 13 percent higher employment rate than non-participants. They play a vital role in successful reentry and enhancing public safety.
Moreover, high-quality prison education programs create safer environments within correctional facilities, leading to a decrease in violent incidents. They also provide a significant return on investment for taxpayers, with every dollar invested saving up to five dollars.
Additionally, these programs have a profound inter-generational effect, transforming outcomes not only for incarcerated learners but also for their children and relatives.
Equipping incarcerated individuals with 21st Century skills and credentials is crucial for their employment prospects and successful reentry into the global economy. The expansion of Pell Grant access for incarcerated individuals aims to achieve these objectives, reduce incarceration costs, and maximize public safety in communities throughout the nation.
