The U.S. Department of Education announced changes to the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program in July that among other things, allows recipients more time and flexibility to complete their service requirements before their grants are converted to loans.  

The program changes are now reflected on the TEACH Grant Program page and on the TEACH Grant loan servicer’s website. The servicer will contact grant recipients affected by the program changes. 

The program provides grants of up to $4,000 each year to students who are completing or plan to complete course work needed to begin a teaching career. Unlike other federal student grants, the TEACH Grant requires recipients to agree to complete four years of teaching in a high-need field and underserved school as a condition for receiving the grant.  

“Our teachers are champions of students’ potential and stewards of their success,” said U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. “Respecting and honoring teachers who serve students with the greatest needs also requires that we ensure these educators receive the support to which they are entitled from this important federal program without having to jump through unnecessary hoops.”