The Expected Family Contribution (EFC)

The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is the amount the government projects you and your family should be able to pay toward your higher education costs for the coming year, based on the data on your FAFSA form. This dollar figure will be shown on your Student Aid Report (SAR) and in fact, will probably be available to you as soon as you complete the FAFSA if you complete it on-line. Here is some added input on the EFC:

  • Just a word of warning – the EFC will almost certainly be higher than you wish it was or think it should be!
  • The EFC is not an exact number. The actual dollar amount for which your family will be responsible depends on the type of school attended, eligibility for merit aid such as academic scholarships, and other factors; so, it could be greater or less than the EFC calculated when you complete the FAFSA.
  • The dollar figure is the same for all schools in which you are interested, whether public, private, or vocational. Taylor University Fort Wayne has no input.
  • The EFC varies depending on financial data from student and parents, as well as family size, number in college, age of parents, and other factors.
  • For dependent students: A greater portion of your income and assets is included as part of your EFC than is included for your parents. The process assumes your education is a primary focus for your funds, while your parents have additional responsibilities related to housing and other support factors.