What does a high EFC score indicate?

A high EFC score indicates that colleges and the federal government will offer a student less need-based financial aid, according to The College Solution. EFC scores measure the amount of money that schools expect a student to pay for one year of their education.

EFC scores are calculated based on one of two methodologies, according to The College Board. Each methodology determines the amount of expected family contribution based on financial information provided during the FAFSA or CSS/Financial Aid Profile. Colleges determine the amount of financial aid to provide to students by subtracting the EFC score from the total yearly cost of attendance.