FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is used to determine eligibility for federal aid and is often used by states and schools.
Student Aid Index (SAI)
An eligibility index number calculated from FAFSA information. Schools use it to help determine need-based aid.
Cost of Attendance (COA)
A school's estimate of the total cost for one academic year, including tuition, housing, food, books, and other expenses.
Financial need
Generally, the cost of attendance minus the Student Aid Index and other aid. Need-based programs use this figure.
Eligibility basics
Federal aid programs generally consider factors like citizenship or eligible noncitizen status, enrollment in an eligible program, and satisfactory academic progress. Only the program or school can determine your eligibility.
Gift aid vs. self-help aid
Gift aid, such as grants and scholarships, generally does not need to be repaid. Self-help aid, such as loans and work-study, involves repayment or work.