How do institutions meet demonstrated need?

Typical financial aid awards can include a mix of:  

• Self-help aid – student employment and loans 
• Gift aid – grants and scholarships

Scholarships awarded by anyone other than the institutions can meet unmet need, replace loans or student employment, and sometimes can reduce or replace an Expected Family Contribution Always be sure to ask the following questions of outside scholarships: 

• Is this scholarship renewable? 
• If so, what are the requirements? 
• Will this scholarship affect my need-based aid eligibility?

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Common Financial Aid Terms

Cost of Attendance: The total cost of attending a college or university for one year, including tuition, room & board, books & supplies, travel, personal expenses, etc.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC): The amount that a student and the student’s family is expected to contribute to the cost of college based on their income, assets, and household situation.

Demonstrated Need: The difference between the cost of attendance and the expected family contribution for each college. Some colleges commit to meeting demonstrated need through financial aid.

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