what does EFC mean on FASFA? Do I want a high or low number?

Answer 1

The EFC is the expected family contribution, you want a low number as they will give you more aid that way. If the EFC is too high they won't give you any aid. www.fafsa.ed.gov will also explain this.

Answer 2

EFC stands for "expected family contribution." Essentially, this number (a dollar amount) is meant to reflect the total amount that your family (AND you, from your job/savings) can afford to contribute toward your education for the upcoming year.

In my opinion, many (if not most) FAFSA applicants feel that their EFCs are higher than the amount that can reasonably put towards their schooling. Truthfully, EFCs aren't really meant to be a reflection of your *actual* disposable income but of what your disposable income would be if you pinched pennies, lived modestly, and made education finance your #1 (or maybe #2) priority. In other words, the FAFSA doesn't really leave room for non-essential expenses.

Students with very low numbers will typically receive the most grant aid. For example, Pell grants are only offered to students with EFCs less than $3,851. That said, having a higher number doesn't necessarily mean that you won't get anything. There are a variety of student loans are available to students with high EFCs as well as academic scholarships that that don't EFCs into consideration.