Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG)
What Is an ACG?
The Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) is a federal college grant awarded to first- and second-year undergraduate students. The maximum award amount for a first-year student is $750, and a second-year student may receive up to $1,300.
ACG Eligibility and Requirements
The ACG is awarded to first- and second-year undergraduate students. To be eligible, students must have been awarded a Pell Grant in the same year and be enrolled at least half-time. Additionally, students must meet one of the following criteria:
- Complete a rigorous high school curriculum (four years of English; three years of math, social studies, and science; and one year of a foreign language other than English)
- Pass at least two Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) exams
- Participate in a state-designated rigorous program at a high school or secondary school
First-year students must have completed high school or secondary school after January 1, 2006. Second-year students must have completed high school or secondary school after January 1, 2005, and have a grade point average of 3.0 or greater by the end of the first year of undergraduate study. Make sure you keep your grades high so you don't miss the opportunity for this grant!
Applying for an ACG
To apply for an ACG, complete the federal student aid application (FAFSA).