Can you receive aid for a second bachelor's degree?

A second bachelor’s degree may qualify for some aid, but options are usually narrower than for a first degree. Federal Pell Grants generally do not fund a second bachelor’s degree.

What to know before you act

Eligible students may have remaining federal loan eligibility, subject to annual and aggregate limits and other requirements. Institutional scholarships, employer assistance, and outside awards have their own prior-degree rules. Narrow Pell exceptions for certain teacher-certification or workforce programs do not establish general eligibility for another bachelor’s degree.

Compare a second degree with alternatives that meet your goal, such as prerequisite courses or a suitable certificate. Ask how prior credits apply and obtain a full completion budget. Search Honor Society’s directory for awards whose current criteria permit your education stage.

Your next steps

• Ask the aid office to review prior degrees and borrowing.
• Get a written credit evaluation and completion plan.
• Screen scholarships for second-degree eligibility.

For the next step, use the scholarship directory. Find additional award leads and check each provider’s eligibility and application rules.