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Pell Grants are need-based grants issued to students who demonstrate financial need to help pay for college. The annual maximum amount for the 2021-22 school year is $6,495 and students may only receive Pell Grants for 12 semesters.

A look at the average cost of college by school type and the sticker prices at 1,728 institutions throughout the U.S.

If you've been denied financial aid—or offered far less than you think you're eligible for—you can submit a financial aid appeal letter to have your eligibility reconsidered. Here's how.

If your parents will not or cannot help you pay for college, you still have options to cover the costs. First, fill out the FAFSA. Next, look for scholarships, places to work while in school, and private student loans.

If you drop out of college before your school's deadline for dropping courses, you likely won't be refunded already-paid tuition. Furthermore, if you drop out after 120 days of federal student loans being disbursed, you will owe at least part of the loan back.