Determining Eligibility

With the exception of some scholarships and graduate loans, financial assistance awarded by the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships is based upon financial need as determined by a careful review of the resources of the student and the student's household.

The need for financial aid is determined by the following calculation:

Cost of Attendance/Budget (COA) - Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial Aid Eligibility (Need)

The calculation formula used to determine the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is the Federal Methodology, as mandated by the U.S. Congress. By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the student’s family contribution is calculated and reported on the Student Aid Report (SAR) which is emailed or mailed to the student’s home by the federal processor.

Note: Most foreign students are not eligible for federal student aid from the U.S. Department of Education. There are, however, some instances in which noncitizens may be eligible for financial aid from the U.S. federal government. To learn more, visit: Eligibility for Non-U.S. Citizens