Jump to page content

Financial Aid EasyPlanner

My EasyPlanner

Sign Up
Create a free account.

Sign in to save or retrieve your EasyPlanner information.



Articles

Cost

Savings

Paying

Scholarships

Aid

Loans

Compare

  1. Step 1
  2. Step 2
  3. Step 3
  4. Step 4
  5. Step 5
  6. Step 6
  7. Step 7

Step 3: How much will colleges expect me to pay?

Students and their families are expected to contribute to the cost of college to the extent that they're able. This is called the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is calculated by considering the family's financial strength -- their income and assets. Other factors include the number of family members and the number of family members in college.

EFC Calulator

Use this Expected Family Contribution (EFC) Calculator to:

  • Estimate how much your family will be expected to contribute. After all, you can't make a realistic plan to cover your share if you don't have an idea what your share could be.
  • Gain insight into your financial aid eligibility. If you're unable to contribute the entire cost of college, financial aid is available to bridge the gap. That's how the financial aid system works. The difference between the total cost and your EFC is considered your "financial need" and the amount of aid you're eligible to receive.
Previous Next