Is my EFC normal or around the average?

Question

Hi,

My Expected family contribution is around $7,900. Is that good or bad? What will colleges think when they see this?

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Your EFC is based on the household, income and asset information provided on your FAFSA.  Whether it is normal or average depends on the school(s) you applied to and the population they serve.  Your EFC is a little high.  Your campus would know that you are not eligible for Federal Pell Grant, but you would be eligible for other types of aid. Contact your financial aid office they are the best people for you to talk to about this.

Answer 2

7900 is a little high. This number also depends on what school you plan to attend. Ask your financial aid office what your financial aid might be. I commend you for taking your education to a higher level. :)

Answer 3

colleges won't "think" anything when they see it--they have nothing to do with your federal financial aid.  your EFC affects how much government aid you'll be given.  yes, $7900 is a little high, but it's average for someone who's parental income is taken into consideration.  if your parents aren't set on claiming you on their taxes and you're old enough (i can't remember the age you have to be), you should file SEPERATELY from your parents and your EFC, provided you yourself don't make a whole bunch of money, will go down to under $1500, thus raising the amount of government aid you get.  of course really, it just increases your loan numbers--so if your parents are willing to pay for college, just go that way and you won't have a bunch of loans to pay back when you graduate!