The device, made by Hemel Hempstead firm Draeger, was subjected to quality tests by the department's centre for applied science and technology before approval.
Some colleges are raising the bar to qualify for both need- and merit-based scholarships, a trend that will likely continue next academic year, Mr. Draeger said.
"If Congress doesn't come through, students and parents are going to be left in the lurch, " says Justin Draeger, president of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.