EFC Tables and Data

EFC Tables and Data Understanding EFC Tables An EFC calculator is a program where several different bits of information are input to determine how much aid you and your family could expect to receive. Family income, assets, number in family and the number of people from your family in college will all play a role in determining your Expected Family Contribution. This number can range anywhere from zero contribution to complete family contribution. One important thing to remember is that the cost of where you attend college will not come into the calculations. You will be awarded the same amount of aid whether the school charges $5,000 or $25,000 per semester. Related Articles What Is a Good EFC Number? What Is a Good EFC Number? How to Reduce Your Expected Family Contribution How to Reduce Your Expected Family Contribution What Are the Four Basic Types of Financial Aid What Are the Four Basic Types of Financial Aid One factor other than income levels that will greatly affect the figures from the EFC tables and data is your status as a student. If you are a dependent student, your parents' income will have to be taken into account when figuring your financial aid eligibility. Most of the time you will be better served if you are classified as an independent student. An independent student is generally categorized by the following criteria: 23 or older Married as of date of application Serving in armed forces Veteran of armed forces Student deprived after age of 13 of both parents due to death, foster care or ward of the court status Emancipated minor Fits any one of several homeless youth statuses Determined independent due to special circumstances (assessed by FAA) Automatic Zero Contribution Some students will automatically qualify for zero contribution. This applies to both dependent and independent students. In this situation, students or their parents must meet two very specific criteria. Dependent: Parents received other federal public assistance, SSI, food stamps, TANF, free or reduced price school lunch or WIC, are eligible to file a 1040a or 1040ez, or qualify as a dislocated worker. In addition, they must have an adjusted gross income of $30,000 or less.