Final answer:
To maintain full-time financial aid, students must typically enroll in at least 12 credit hours per term. This requirement is crucial for eligibility as tuition and fees continue to rise, impacting student loan debt.
Step-by-step explanation:
Students receiving full-time financial aid are generally required to enroll in at least 12 credit hours per term. This number of credit hours typically qualifies a student as full-time, which is a criterion for maintaining eligibility for most financial aid programs. The Higher Education Act of 1965 emphasizes the importance of full-time attendance as a factor in determining financial aid eligibility.
Furthermore, according to the 2011-2012 National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS:12), over 70% of all full-time college students received some form of federal financial aid, indicating the significant reliance on such aid to pursue higher education. With tuition and fees continually increasing, students must understand the credit hour requirements to ensure they remain qualified for their financial aid packages.
It's critical to be aware that falling below the minimum credit hour requirement can impact financial aid eligibility, potentially increasing the overall cost of education, leading to higher student loan debt.