Since the student loan terms ABSOLUTELY SUCK (as shown in this thread) it is better, when you make enough money to be ineligible for government loans, to get an unsecured loan. At least then when you make extra payments they reduce the principle.And afaik there is no income limit for direct student loans themselves and you have to fill out FAFSA for them.
Moreover,
I understand. My point was that the $27k figure wasn't a cutoff for Pell Grants, but only the level at which expected family contribution is no longer $0.
When the expected family contribution is higher than the cost of the tuition, it all becomes a moot point and you are not eligible for any of the offerings.