Determining Eligibility for Need-Based Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) provides the Student Aid Office with an amount that reflects the student’s “Expected Family Contribution” (EFC). This EFC amount represents what the federal government believes a student and/or parent(s)/spouse can reasonably be expected to contribute toward the educational cost. This amount is calculated from the income information submitted on the FAFSA.
The Student Aid Office establishes UM’s Cost of Attendance (COA) for the aid year. This includes an estimate of tuition, fees, room, board, transportation, books, supplies, and personal expenses. If the student’s EFC is less than the COA, the student has demonstrated need. If the EFC is greater than the COA, there is no need demonstrated. Need determines what type of federal aid the student is eligible to receive.
