While there are a number of important factors when it comes accessing whether or not you’ll be approved for a Pell grant it’s the “expected family contribution” which is perhaps the most important deciding factor of all.
You see, this grant is really a competition. It’s goal is to award funding to the most dedicated students who come from the poorest families – the least likely to be able to afford the modern costs of today’s education. As such they will look very closely at how much it’s likely that you’re family will be able to contribute to the cost of your tuition fees and other associated expenses of attending college such as food and lodging.
This entire model was designed by the Dept. of Education. It’s possible to talk directly to a representative from the Dept. in order to access your eligibility for a federal Pell grant. This is highly recommended. For more information you can read a complete guide to Federal Pell Grant Eligibility Criteria here.