Education Dept. Opens Grants for College Access Centers
Published Date: 4/3/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Labor and Education are inviting groups to apply for grants to run Educational Opportunity Centers that help people get into college and understand money better. Applications are due by May 14, 2026, and winners can get up to $1.3 million a year to support their programs. This is a great chance for organizations to expand education access and help more students succeed!
Analyzed Economic Effects
8 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Grant awards up to $1.3M or $3.0M
Organizations that win grants can receive up to $1,300,000 per year. A state-level applicant designated by a Governor or an Indian tribe receiving competitive-preference points may receive up to $3,000,000 per year.
Participant minimum and per-person cap
Each funded project must serve at least 850 participants each year and must have a per-participant cost of no more than $280.
Help with college access and financial literacy
Educational Opportunity Centers provide information about academic and financial help for people who want to enter or continue postsecondary education, help with admission and financial aid applications, and programs to improve financial and economic literacy.
Prior experience awards points
The Secretary will award prior experience points to applicants that have previously conducted an EOC project; points are based on the applicant's performance during the second, third, and fourth years of the prior performance period.
Multiple applications allowed by area
An applicant may submit more than one application if each application proposes a project that serves a different geographic target area.
FY2026 competition priorities listed
The FY 2026 competition lists priorities that applicants should address: Expanding Education Choice; Returning Education to the States; and Expanding Access to Talent Marketplaces.
Application deadline: May 14, 2026
Complete proposals must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 14, 2026.
Accessible formats available on request
Individuals with disabilities can request and obtain this document and related materials in an accessible format by contacting the program contact person listed in the notice.
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