The number calculated from your FAFSA that determines your aid eligibility.
The Student Aid Index (SAI, formerly Expected Family Contribution or EFC) is a formula-based number derived from your FAFSA. It is NOT what your family will actually pay — it is an index used to calculate aid. Your actual cost can be higher or lower than your SAI.
Myth: "Your EFC is what your family pays." Reality: EFC/SAI is just a formula output. Your real cost depends on each school's aid policies.
Why it matters
Understanding SAI prevents a common shock: your SAI might be $30,000 but your actual cost at a $40,000 school could be $15,000 after institutional aid. Conversely, your SAI might be $10,000 but a school that does not meet full need might cost $30,000. Always check each school's net price calculator.
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