Need Analysis
Most Title IV aid is need-based. Need analysis is the process of estimating the amount of assistance a student will require to supplement the resources theoretically available from that student and his or her family. Need analysis has two basic components: first, the estimation of what it will reasonably cost the student to attend a given institution for a given period of time (the cost of attendance or COA), and second, an estimation of the ability of the student and his or her immediate family to contribute to that educational cost (the expected family contribution or EFC). Once COA and EFC have been determined, the financial aid administrator may commence packaging financial aid for the student.
Related topics in this Index: Cost of Attendance; Expected Family Contribution; Packaging; Professional Judgment; Verification
See also Subtopics for more specific references.
Application Processing Information
2019-20 FSA Handbook, Vol. AVG
iLibrary - FAFSA and SAR Materials
SAR Comment Codes and Text Guide
Summary of Changes for the Application Processing System Guide
See also:
- Top list entry for Administrative Capability, subtopic Conflicting or discrepant information and suspected fraud.
- Top list entry for Student Eligibility
See top list entry for Cost of Attendance
See top list entry for Expected Family Contribution
See top list entry for Professional Judgment
See top list entry for Verification