Colleges and Universities should consider applying for federal grants to increase recruitment, retention, and graduation rates on campus. The Department of Education (ED) offers many grants aimed at supporting students with scholarships, tuition assistance, counseling services, and other specialized programs. These programs help school improve maintenance activities, increase endowments, and increase institutional capacity to improve student outcomes. The ED programs below have current or upcoming deadlines.
Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (PPOHA)
Estimated funding amount: Up to $3M over 5 years
Deadline: May 13, 2024 (Typically competed every 5 years)
Program Description: The PPOHA Program expands postbaccalaureate educational opportunities for, and improves the academic attainment of, Hispanic students; and expands the postbaccalaureate academic offerings, as well as enhance the program quality, at the institutions of higher education (IHEs) that are educating Hispanic college students and helping large numbers of Hispanic and low-income students complete postsecondary degrees.
TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)
Estimated funding amount: Up to 1.3M over 5 years
Deadline: Expected late 2024 (Typically competed every 5 years)
Program Description: TRIO SSS supports Pell eligible undergraduate students by providing a range of support services tailored to their needs. From academic advising and tutoring to career counseling and financial literacy education, SSS equips students with the tools and resources necessary for academic and personal success. Institutions must serve a minimum of 140 eligible participants to maintain the program.
Title III Part A: Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) Grant
Estimated funding amount: Up to $2.25M over 5 years
Deadline: Expected Spring 2025 (Typically competed every 2 years)
Program Description: Title III grants focus on strengthening institutions that serve large populations of low-income and minority students, enhancing their capacity to provide quality education and support services. These grants fund initiatives such as curriculum development, faculty training, technology upgrades, and student support programs, all aimed at improving student outcomes. The program aims to improve academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability to further address retention gaps among underrepresented and first-generation students on eligible college campuses.
Title V Developing Hispanic Serving Institutions (DHSI) Grant
Estimated funding amount: Up to $3M over 5 years
Deadline: Expected Spring 2025 (Typically competed every 2 years)
Program Description: Title V grants are designed to enhance educational opportunities for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), including community colleges, universities, and other postsecondary institutions with significant Hispanic student enrollment. These grants support a wide range of initiatives, including academic program development, student support services, and faculty professional development, all aimed at improving the educational experiences and outcomes of Hispanic students.
Institutional Impact
The impact of PPOHA, TRIO SSS, Title III, and Title V grants on student recruitment, retention, and graduation rates cannot be overstated. These grants have consistently demonstrated their efficacy in leveling the playing field and providing opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds to excel academically. By targeting recruitment, retention, and graduation, these grants empower students from diverse backgrounds to overcome obstacles and achieve their academic aspirations.
Grants Intelligence Service (GIS)
Navigating the grant application process can be complex and daunting, that’s where Grants Intelligence Service (GIS) comes in! GIS is a membership service designed specifically to help small and mid-sized colleges and universities navigate and win federal grants. By becoming a GIS member, institutions can gain access to invaluable resources, expertise, and support to navigate the intricacies of grant applications effectively, including upcoming ED programs.