Although an interesting sidenote, in the end we all benefit from these grants both economically and socially. The reason why the government is so eager to give these grants to low EFC students (who come from families that make very little money and/or are on welfare, medicare, food stamps, etc) is because once these students graduate from school, chances are they are going to be making some good money. That good money will in turn put them in higher tax bracket, so now the government, for making a small "investment" on the student, will make a good amount of taxes from the graduate and their new high-paying career for the rest of the graduate’s working life. This in turn will lead to more taxes for roads, schools, city maintenance, etc. Great concept huh.

It’s still pretty early in the semester. Also try talking to your professors and let them know about your situation (whatever it is). Most are willing to work with students who don’t wait until just before finals to let them know there’s a problem.