Obama Scholars: How It Works

By combining gift aid (i.e., Pell Grants, SEOG, ASU Grants, University Grants, LEAP, and scholarships) from federal, state, private, and institutional sources with Federal Work-Study, ASU will cover students' estimated direct costs of attending ASU (minus the Expected Family Contribution as determined by the FAFSA) for up to eight full-time, consecutive fall and spring semesters (summer sessions are not covered). Estimated direct costs include actual tuition and mandatory fees as well as standardized allowances for room, board and books/supplies.
ASU will award recipients a combination of the following sources of aid. These awards do not require repayment.

• Pell Grants—this federal gift assistance program supports students who have exceptional need.
• Institutional Grants—ASU gift assistance available to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. These grants include the ASU Grant and the University Grant.
• FSEOG and LEAP Grants—gift assistance available to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need.
• Federal Work-Study—a student employment program that allows students to earn funds to assist in paying their educational costs.
• Scholarships— gift assistance awarded by ASU and private donors that recognizes exceptional achievement.
• Outside Resources—funding received from outside sources that assists students in paying for their educational expenses.