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11.2. Understanding Your Student Aid Report (SAR)

Once you submit the FAFSA, you’ll get a Student Aid Report (SAR) within a few days (online) or weeks (mail). This isn’t your aid offer—it’s a summary of your data and eligibility. Here’s what to know:

• Key Number: Expected Family Contribution (EFC): The EFC estimates what your family can afford based on income, assets, and household size. A lower EFC means more need-based aid. (Note: Starting 2024–2025, it’s called the Student Aid Index, or SAI, but the concept’s similar.)

• Check for Errors: Review your SAR for mistakes—wrong income or school codes can skew your aid. Correct them at studentaid.gov.

• What It Means: The SAR confirms you’re eligible for federal aid (e.g., Pell Grants if your EFC is below a threshold—around $7,000 in 2025). Schools use it to build your aid package.

Tip: If your EFC seems off (e.g., due to a job loss), don’t panic—you can appeal later (see below).