The Federal Pell Grant can be a crucial source of college funding for students who need help paying for school, and it usually doesn’t have to be repaid. In this guide, you’ll learn who qualifies, how award amounts are determined, and what lifetime limits could affect your aid over time.

Direct Subsidized Loans can help keep college costs lower because the government pays the interest while you’re in school, during the grace period, and in certain deferment periods. Direct Unsubsidized Loans, on the other hand, start accruing interest right away, so knowing the difference can save you money over time.