I think $45k is a substantial amount of need. Grinnell’s website clearly says that the more aid an international student needs, the greater the competition for that aid is. I don’t think the package is unusual given their policy.
The aid on the net price calculator, you said it was $50k aid total, $45k need based. What is the other $5k? A loan?
Did the net price calculator ask if you were an international student?
Federal student loans are only available to US citizens and permanent residents.
@mommdc is making a very good point.
If the net price calculator did not ask if you were an international student…the results could be way off.