* Your financial need: This is calculated based on your family's income and assets, as reported on the FAFSA.
* Your cost of attendance: This includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses at your chosen school.
* Your school's financial aid policies: Each school has its own policies and award amounts.
* The type of aid you qualify for: Grants don't need to be repaid, while loans do. Work-study provides part-time employment.
Therefore, there's no single answer to how much money FAFSA "gives" you per semester. It's a crucial first step in receiving financial aid, but the actual amount you receive is determined by the factors listed above and varies greatly from student to student. You'll need to contact your school's financial aid office to find out what aid you've been awarded.