While both grants and scholarships provide 'gift aid' that does not need to be repaid, how do they most commonly differ in their awarding criteria?

The correct answer to the question "While both grants and scholarships provide 'gift aid' that does not need to be repaid, how do they most commonly differ in their awarding criteria?" is Option C: Grants are primarily need-based, while scholarships can be need-based, merit-based, or based on specific criteria..

The other options — A) Grants are typically awarded by private organizations, while scholarships are federal., B) Grants are exclusively based on academic merit, while scholarships are based on financial need., D) Grants are always renewable, whereas scholarships are typically one-time awards. — are incorrect for this College Advising question. As explained above: Grants, like the Pell Grant, are largely need-based. Scholarships have broader criteria, including academic merit, talent, specific affiliations, or other unique qualifications, in addition to need.