Definition of "need-based" []

• With respect to financial or other assistance, derived from need rather than earned by merit. (adjective)

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• "That is, tell them they can award need-based federal financial aid only if they award only need-based aid."
• "That will enable universities to continue their long-standing practice of providing need-based aid so that students from even the least affluent segments of society can attend college."
• "In some cases this may mean higher tuition at public institutions and more money for need-based financial aid."