Grants and scholarships are gift aid awarded to students who meet certain eligibility requirements; these awards do not have to be repaid. Grants are usually awarded based on student financial need, such as Federal Pell Grants, Pennsylvania State Grants, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, and others. Scholarships are awarded to a student based on a number of characteristics that may include factors such as academic performance, athletic ability, special talents, financial need, or affiliation with a particular organization or group. There are numerous sources of scholarships, including the university, state and federal governments, foundations, clubs and organizations, ROTC, religious groups, corporations, and other entities. Students are encouraged to seek external scholarship opportunities.