The momentum is building to double the Pell Grant, a federal financial aid program that provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate students to help them pay for college. The grant has been a lifeline for millions of students who otherwise would not be able to afford to pursue higher education.

The push to double the Pell Grant comes at a time when the cost of college tuition continues to rise, making it even more difficult for low-income students to access higher education. With the average cost of tuition and fees at a public four-year institution surpassing $10,000 per year, many students are forced to take on significant amounts of debt in order to pay for their education.

Doubling the Pell Grant would help to alleviate this financial burden for countless students, allowing them to focus on their studies without the added stress of worrying about how they will pay for their education. In addition, increasing the grant amount would ensure that more students are able to access and complete their degrees, ultimately leading to a more educated and skilled workforce.

Support for doubling the Pell Grant has been gaining traction in recent months, with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle acknowledging the importance of investing in higher education. In fact, President Biden’s American Families Plan includes a proposal to increase the maximum Pell Grant award, signaling a commitment to expanding access to higher education for all Americans.

Advocates for doubling the Pell Grant argue that increasing the grant amount is not only the right thing to do for students, but also for the economy as a whole. A more educated workforce is better equipped to compete in the global economy, leading to increased innovation and productivity. Additionally, increasing the Pell Grant could help to close the equity gap in access to higher education, leveling the playing field for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background.

While there is still work to be done to make doubling the Pell Grant a reality, the growing momentum behind this initiative is a positive sign that policymakers are taking seriously the need to invest in higher education. As the cost of college continues to rise, it is crucial that we do everything we can to ensure that all students have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals, regardless of their financial circumstances.