What is an Expected Family Contribution?

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is the minimum annual amount a student is expected to contribute toward the cost of college. The EFC is calculated from the data submitted on financial aid forms – FAFSA and CSS Profile. Colleges use your family’s EFC to determine eligibility for need-based financial aid – grants, subsidized Federal Direct loans, and work study. There are three different EFC methodologies so it’s very important for you to understand how each school on your college list calculates your EFC.