FAFSA FAQ’s

I think I don’t qualify, should I still complete my FAFSA?

YES! Many people don’t complete their application because they think they don’t qualify. Income is just one of many qualifiers, including your parent’s level of education and how many people in your family will go to college.

What happens if I don’t qualify for the FAFSA?

If you don’t qualify for the FAFSA (Federal Pell Grant), you may still qualify for other grants. Completingthe FAFSAputs you on the list for other grants and federal loans. Make it a rule to complete your FAFSA as soon as you file your taxes, as some grants are first come-first served.

What is an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC)?

An Estimated Family Contribution is an index that the school uses to determine your need and to decide whether you are eligible for the Federal Pell Grant. It is NOT a dollar amount and your family will NOT be expected to come up with the EFC amount in cash.

How is my need determined?

Generally, need is determined by taking the Cost of Attendance (COA) or Cost of Education(COE) and subtracting the EFC. The COA or COE is determined by the school and usually includes the cost of tuition, fees, room, board, books, traveland personal expenses. Contact the school where you intend to apply if to find out specifically how that school determines COA or COE.

What happens after I file the FAFSA?

The information from the FAFSA is sent to each of the schools thatyou list. Once you are accepted and admitted to a school, their financial aid department will review yourFAFSAand award you grants and/or loans accordingly. You will receive an award letter from the school with all the information necessary to accept the award.

Note: 30% of all students are selected for Verification. Verification is the process by which the school verifies that the information on the FAFSA is correct. If you are selected for Verification,you must provide a copy of the tax returns and W-2’s, as well as anything else the school requests (usually a Verification Worksheet).

If you do not understand or have questions about the award letters you get, please call for an appointment with the FAFSA Administrator at 512-610-4012. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thanks to the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation for the grant that makes this program possible.