<p>When someone's EFC is zero, what amount of money is <em>completely</em> guaranteed? And where does it come from?</p>
<p>Nothing is guaranteed.</p>
<p>A zero EFC will meet the most significant requirement for a Pell Grant, from the feds, but there are other requirements. Similarly, most states have grants but there are generally requirements beyond EFC.</p>
<p>In almost all cases, the grant money doesn't go to the student, it goes to the college.</p>
<p>sblake--my understanding is that Pell is entirely EFC driven. The only time someone wouldn't get one is if they have no need (scholarships or another program cover all costs.) The same with subsidized Stafford Loans, I think.</p>
<p>You've also got to be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen, registered for the draft (if applicable), have a SS#, have a HS diploma or GED, meet satisfactory academic progress, and a few other things. Not sure if the drug conviction exclusion still applies, or not.</p>
<p>True, but all that is pretty much necessary to fill out the FAFSA and get the EFC in the first place, no?</p>
<p>Good point. Maybe meeting satisfactory academic progress is the only additional requirement. That and actually being enrolled in a degree program (which isn't necessary when filing FAFSA).</p>
<p>In addition to the Pell Grant the student with -0- EFC will also be guaranteed a subsidized stafford loan, now $3500 for the first year. This isn't the same as a grant, but obviously it comes in handy toward paying college costs.</p>