“15 Credit Hours?” What the New Pell Grant Requirement Means—And How to Stay Well While Meeting It

There’s been a shift—and not the good kind.

Tucked inside a massive federal bill, lawmakers have made a change that hits home for students trying to survive school and life at the same time. According to recent reports, students will now be required to take a minimum of 15 credit hours per semester to qualify for a full Pell Grant.(Source: Politico)

Let’s sit with that for a moment.

This isn’t just a numbers game. This change affects real people—students who are working jobs, raising children, managing disabilities, surviving trauma, and doing the absolute most just to stay enrolled. For some, 12 credit hours was already a stretch. Now 15 is the floor?

I’m writing this as someone who’s lived it. I’ve taken 15 credit hours while pledging a sorority. I’ve worked three jobs just to stay afloat—all while silently carrying the weight of unresolved trauma and navigating life with a dysregulated emotional and nervous system. I wasn’t just trying to pass exams—I was trying to survive my own internal storm.

So here’s what I want to say: if you’re in that space right now, you’re not alone—and your wellness still matters.

As a holistic wellness coach and trauma-informed educator, I want to offer more than outrage. I want to offer support—real, grounded, whole-person support for staying well under this new pressure.

1. Create a Rhythm, Not a Rigidity

Fifteen hours is a lot—but structure doesn’t have to be suffocating. Build a weekly flow that works with your energy, not against it. Be honest about your capacity. Plan in recovery time. Your nervous system deserves rhythm—not reaction.

2. Protect Your Peace Like It’s Financial Aid

Block out your peace time like it’s a class. This could be breathwork, prayer, a walk, or a long hot shower with no guilt attached. One of my go-to tools when I feel the pressure rising? A simple grounding breath practice:

This breath tells your body: “I am safe. I am present. I am not alone.” Let your breath anchor you don't let your anxiety run the show.

3. Fuel Your Body Like It’s on Your Team

Skipping meals to finish assignments or doubling up on caffeine will only crash your system faster. Stock your space with easy, nourishing snacks. Hydrate. Stretch. Move. Think of your body as your partner, not your opponent.

4. Say No Without Explaining

This is your season to get serious about boundaries. You’re not obligated to explain your “no.” Protect your energy. You don’t owe anyone burnout to prove you’re “handling it.”

5. Make Use of What’s Already There

Too many students suffer in silence. Use your school's tutoring center, counseling services, student orgs, and advisors. Don’t wait for a breakdown to reach out. Community is part of your wellness plan.

This Isn’t Just About Credits. It’s About Capacity.

What lawmakers may not fully grasp is that wellness isn’t extra. It’s essential. Requiring 15 credit hours without offering deeper support, flexibility, or trauma-informed policy is not equity—it’s pressure masquerading as performance.

But here’s the truth: you can still win—not just academically, but spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. I see you. I honor the effort you’re giving. And I hope this space gives you tools to stay balanced while under the weight.

If this resonated, share it with someone who needs it. Or drop a comment and let me know—how are you protecting your peace this semester?

With care,

Drew Johnson Nwabueze

Holistic Wellness Advocate | Coach | Speaker