CampusPin Glossary
Pell Grant
The largest need-based federal grant for undergraduates. Awarded based on FAFSA results; does not need to be repaid.
The Federal Pell Grant is the cornerstone of U.S. need-based aid. Maximum award for the 2025–2026 academic year is approximately $7,395. Eligibility is determined by FAFSA / SAI, family size, enrollment intensity, and cost of attendance. Pell is a grant, not a loan — it does not need to be repaid as long as the student completes the term.
Pell-eligible students often qualify for additional state grants and institutional matches. About a third of U.S. undergraduates receive Pell.
See also
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid — the U.S. government form every undergraduate must file to access federal grants, loans, and work-study.
Expected Family Contribution (EFC) / Student Aid Index (SAI)
A federal calculation of how much a family is expected to pay for one year of college. Replaced by the Student Aid Index in the 2024–2025 simplified FAFSA.
Subsidized Direct Loan
A federal student loan for undergraduates with demonstrated need. The government pays the interest while the student is in school.
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