Financial need is a student's calculated eligibility for financial assistance which is determined by subtracting the EFC (Expected Family Contribution) from the COA (Cost of Attendance).

Many types of financial aid are awarded on the basis of financial need. Financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships and federal work study can be awarded to meet a your financial need. Most federal student aid programs are awarded based on financial need except for unsubsidized Stafford loans, PLUS loans, and TEACH grants.