The distribution of student financial aid funds at the state level is described and some of the variables that are associated with the allocation of funds from the different programs are identified. This paper is divided into several sections. The first reviews the work done on measures of educational opportunity and analyzes the shortcomings of…

Four federal programs were investigated for inconsistencies in awarding financial aid to college students: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Basic Educational Opportunity Grants, College Work-Study Program, and National Direct Student Loan Program. Their methods for determining student need and their legislative histories are…

The impact of student aid policies on women is assessed. Differences in the conditions affecting men's and women's need for aid are identified, along with actions that could improve women's participation in student aid programs. Gender issues in student aid policy include: loan burden, default, and bankruptcy; the award of merit scholarships;…