Core Insights - The "One Big, Beautiful Bill" will significantly alter the Pell Grant program, effective for the 2026-27 award year [1] - The congressional budget bill passed this summer expands Pell Grant eligibility to include short certificate and licensing programs at trade schools, with some eligibility requirements modified [1] Group 1: Changes to Pell Grant Program - The Workforce Pell Grant program will be introduced for the 2026-27 academic year, providing aid for short certificate or licensing programs [4] - Pell Grants will now be available for programs lasting between eight and 15 weeks, expanding access to vocational training [5] - Starting July 1, 2026, families must include foreign income in their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) when determining Pell Grant eligibility, potentially reducing aid for some families [10][11] Group 2: Eligibility Modifications - Students receiving full-ride scholarships will no longer be eligible for Pell Grants if their total cost of attendance is covered [7] - A stricter Student Aid Index (SAI) eligibility requirement will be implemented, disqualifying families with an SAI equal to or greater than twice the maximum Pell Grant amount, set at $14,790 for the 2026-27 award year [12][13] - Families with small businesses or farms will benefit from an exemption in calculating their SAI, potentially increasing their eligibility for federal aid [14][15][16]