Federal projections show the Pell Grant program is on track to face an $11.5 billion shortfall unless Congress replenishes the Federal Student Aid account by Sept. 30. The warning, reported this week, would force either sharp cuts to award levels or tightened eligibility if lawmakers fail to act before the fiscal year ends. The shortfall puts pressure on higher‑education leaders and state policymakers to lobby for additional funding or program restructuring. Institutions that serve high shares of Pell recipients—community colleges and regional public universities—stand to see the largest enrollment and affordability impacts if awards are reduced.