Need-based financial aid includes most grants, many loans and part-time student employment through Work Study. In making awards of need-based financial assistance, the Cost of Attendance and the family's ability to pay educational expenses are the most important factors.

The Cost of Attendance includes the average expenses a student will incur for tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation and necessary personal and miscellaneous items. The Cost of Attendance can vary, depending on a number of factors such as full or part-time enrollment, housing accommodations and the school in which a student enrolls.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is an objective measure of the amount of educational assistance that is expected to be provided by the family. The formula is determined each year by the U.S. Department of Education and takes into account factors such as total income, federal taxes paid, family size and the number of family members in college at the same time. This assessment is made after a student completes a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once a student completes a FAFSA, the results are calculated by the processor for the U.S. Department of Education and sent to colleges and other agencies selected by the student.

Simply stated, Cost of Attendance - Expected Family Contribution = Demonstrated Financial Need.

Financial aid from scholarships, grants, loans and Work Study will be awarded to eligible students to help meet Demonstrated Financial Need.