EFC ??????

[Vannabunny]

Ok, so if we're all independants on the FAFSA, how do they come up with a EFC?

[Erapitt]

the EFC is in essence your contribution.  I.E. you are your family.  Or, if you have a spouse, the two of you are your family.

[Vannabunny]

Wow....hmm

[thenextstep]

Also keep in mind that part of the student budget for schools is living expenses - for example my EFC was higher than I expected but actually lower than what I paid in rent last year, so that's probably actually reasonable.  I mean not really reasonable since I'll be basically unemployed next academic year, but somewhat reasonable.

[Vannabunny]

Ok, I think I'm still confused. For example, in 2005, I made roughly $2,050 all year, and I'll make that amount or a little less in 2006, when I'll be doing all my LS finaid stuff.
How do they get an EFC out of such a small income number?

[Erapitt]

I wouldn't worry about it. Your EFC will be negligible.  Even with an EFC of like $25,000 you can still end up getting need based aid.  Law school isn't cheap lol and they factor in living expenses. 

You are fine.  However, for need aid, they will look at your parents info, which is BS, but that is the way it is unfortunately.

[Vannabunny]

Ooo, that sucks.

[Erapitt]

Indeed it does.  C'est la vie.