Financial aid programs were created with the idea that the primary responsibility for paying college costs rests with the student and his or her family. Need-based financial aid is available to families who demonstrate a need for additional resources to help pay college costs. The formula used to determine whether you are eligible for need-based aid is:
Cost of Attendance (COA)- Expected Family Contribution (EFC) – Scholarships & Other Resources = Need for Aid
Financial aid is awarded on the basis of financial need with the exception of the William D. Ford Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, Parent PLUS Loan, Graduate PLUS Loan and private loan programs.
Cost of Attendance (COA) is sometimes referred to as a student budget. It represents a reasonable estimate of the cost of attending the University for a full academic year, including:
- estimated amounts for tuition and fees*,
- books and supplies,
- room and board, and
- a modest allowance for personal/miscellaneous expenses.
Keep in mind that your actual costs may differ from the estimated cost of attendance. You may want to use a budget worksheet to help you determine actual costs.
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is determined by the U.S. Department of Education using the information reported on your Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It is based on family income, assets, the number of family members in the household and the number of members attending college. It does not represent the amount you owe WVU.
Many of the federal aid programs have specific criteria students must meet in order
to qualify for that aid program. The Federal Pell Grant Program, for example, is
determined by the EFC as well as the student’s enrollment. The amount
of the Pell Grant will vary based on if the student is enrolled on a full- or part-time
basis.
* Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies and living expenses. Please see the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage for how to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.