What makes a low-income student in college admissions?

Hi, I'm a high school junior looking into colleges and I'm not exactly affluent. For financial aid and such, how do colleges define a 'low-income' student?

The term "low-income" can vary between colleges, but generally, it's used to describe students whose family income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty line. However, some colleges and scholarships may have their specific income thresholds for what they consider "low-income".

The exact dollar amount will depend on your family size, so it's always best to check with individual institutions or scholarships for their specific criteria. Also, consider that your eligibility for need-based financial aid doesn't only depend on income. It might also factor in the cost of living in your area, the number of dependents in your household, and whether there are other children in your family attending college.

Additionally, keep in mind that even if you don't meet the specific "low-income" definition, it doesn't mean you won't qualify for financial aid. Schools use the information you provide on your FASFA or CSS Profile (including all aspects of your parent's finances, not just income) to calculate your family's expected contribution towards your education. They then use this figure, in combination with the cost of their tuition, to determine your financial need. You may receive need-based aid even if your family's income is above the "low income" threshold.

For federal need-based aid, like Pell Grants, you don't need to fall under a strict income threshold to qualify, but your family's income and assets will be considered together in the formula that determines eligibility. So lower-income families are more likely to receive Pell Grants, but higher-income families with multiple children in college at the same time may also qualify.