An EFC score may vary between multiple institutions due to a higher COA or by the institution calculating the student’s EFC differently.  There are two types of EFC methodologies.  The first methodology is based on a formula established by the federal government and is called the Federal EFC methodology.  This method takes into account family income, household size, assets, and the number of family members attending college.  It determines eligibility for federally sponsored financial aid, such as the Pell Grant, Perkins Loan, Stafford loan, and Federal Work-Study Programs. 

The second method is used by institutions to determine a student’s eligibility for institutional based programs and private aid programs, which include college scholarships. Work-study program and other college funded programs.  Each post-secondary institution has their own calculation, so financial aid may vary among different schools. 



Additional factors that may impact the institutions calculations are all taken into consideration, such as, a recent parent job layoff, recent lower family income, or a change in family savings due to market corrections.  This methodology is only used of or in addition to the federal expected family contribution to determine a student eligibility to receive financial aid from private funds administered by the college.