The __ is known as the foundation of federal student aid. A. Pell Grant B. Perkins Loan C. TEACH Grant D. SMART Grant

## Step 1<br />The question is asking us to identify the program that is considered the foundation of federal student aid. The options provided are all types of federal student aid programs, but we need to identify the one that is most foundational.<br />## Step 2<br />The Pell Grant is a type of federal student aid that does not need to be repaid. It is available to students who demonstrate significant financial need and is intended to help cover the cost of##<br />The other options, such as the Perkins Loan, TEACH Grant, and SMART Grant, are also types of federal student aid, but they are not as foundational as the Pell Grant. The Perkins Loan is a type of federal student loan, the TEACH Grant is for students who agree to teach in high-need fields, and the SMART Grant is for students who are pursuing a degree in a specific field.<br />## Step 4<br />Therefore, the Pell Grant is considered the foundation of federal student aid because it is the most widely available and does not need to be repaid.