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Understanding the Legal Definition of Undergraduate Student [Education]
Definition & Meaning
An undergraduate student is an individual enrolled in a course of study that typically lasts up to four years and leads to a bachelor's degree. This definition also includes students in longer programs that are designed to culminate in a baccalaureate degree. Furthermore, students who have completed a bachelor's degree but are pursuing a state-required teacher certification are also recognized as undergraduates for specific federal financial aid programs.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "undergraduate student" is primarily used in the context of federal financial aid programs, such as the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). Understanding this classification is essential for students seeking financial assistance to cover educational expenses. Users may find legal templates and forms related to financial aid applications on platforms like US Legal Forms, which can help streamline the process.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A student enrolled in a four-year bachelor's degree program in biology is classified as an undergraduate student and is eligible for federal financial aid.
Example 2: A student who has completed their bachelor's degree and is now enrolled in a state-required teacher certification program is also considered an undergraduate for financial aid purposes (hypothetical example).
Relevant laws & statutes
The definition of undergraduate student is outlined in 34 CFR 668.2(b) and is relevant to various federal financial aid programs. This regulation provides the framework for determining eligibility for financial assistance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Differences
Graduate Student
A student enrolled in a program leading to a master's or doctoral degree.
Graduate students have already completed an undergraduate program, unlike undergraduate students.
Professional Student
A student enrolled in a professional degree program, such as law or medicine.
Professional students are typically pursuing advanced degrees beyond the undergraduate level.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are an undergraduate student seeking financial aid, ensure you complete the necessary applications for federal programs like the Pell Grant. You can find user-friendly templates and forms on US Legal Forms to assist in this process. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.
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