Eligibility

Financial need determination

Your eligibility for need-based programs is calculated by subtracting your EFC from your cost of attendance. The resulting figure, financial need, is an estimate of the amount you need to pay for KU for the academic year.

Your estimated Cost of Attendance (COA) is a standardized estimate of what it will cost to attend KU for the academic year. The COA includes tuition and fees — resident or nonresident tuition and special fees for programs such as engineering, law, and pharmacy — room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses. Your financial aid package cannot exceed your estimated COA.

The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is an estimate of what your family might be able to contribute. The EFC is calculated from information you report on your FAFSA. Your EFC is printed on the Student Aid Report (SAR) that you receive after filing your FAFSA.

The formula is established by federal law and determines your eligibility for student aid programs.

If you feel that your current situation is not accurately reflected on your FAFSA, you may request a Special Circumstances Re-Evaluation. For more information, see the Special Situations page.