Financial need represents the difference between the Cost of Education and the Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

     Cost of Education
   - Expected Family Contribution
   = Financial Need

The student and his or her family are expected to contribute to the cost of education using earnings, assets, and savings to the extent that they are able. The U.S. Department of Education calculates the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) using the Federal Methodology and data the student and family provide on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Federal Methodology takes into account such factors as income, assets, family size and number in college.

The SFCC Financial Aid Office staff reviews the FAFSA information and other data submitted to resolve any conflicting information. The SFCC Financial Aid Office staff awards grant, work and loan assistance based on the student’s basic and program specific eligibility.

Students cannot receive aid from all sources that exceeds the Cost of Education.