This paper describes the main public benefit and refundable tax credit programs low-income college students are most likely to be eligible for and their interactions with federal- and state-funded financial aid, including Pell Grants and work-study. 

In addition, CLASP hosted a panel discussion around the need for a comprehensive student aid system using financial aid, public benefits and refundable tax credits. The panel was moderated by Doug Lederman editor and a founder of Inside Higher Education, and feautured Amy Ellen Duke-Benfield of CLASP, Angela Johnson of Cuyahoga Community College, and Mark Mitsui, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Community Colleges at the U.S. Department of Education.