<p>I was accepted to Yale, but after utilizing the "Early Estimator" on the Princeton University website, my EFC came out to be around $20,000, i.e. (and to be perfectly blunt), "not a chance in hell that I or my parents can pay that." Financial Aid wise, Princeton is supposed to one of the most generous institutions, isn't it? Does this seem to be the right amount for an adjusted gross income of around $85,000 with another $20,000 going into my 59 year old father's thrift sacings, i.e., retirement? (Oh, and add to that around $20,000 that I- stupidly- saved in my own name.) I would be most appreciative if anyone would shed some light on this situation. Please, thank you, & good night.</p>
<p>Remember that your family's assets are also used in the calculation, so even if your income isn't sky high, you might still be expected to contribute a good amount if you own a house, etc.</p>
<p>And your parents overall general savings.. they look at that and see what amount could be spared to help support you too.</p>
<p>._. Yeah</p>
<p>Maybe I should rephrase "not a chance in hell that we can pay that" to "not a chance in hell that either my parents or I am paying that."</p>
<p>Well, we can't tell you what your Yale fin. aid package is going to be. But we have answered your question re: reasonability: yes that EFC sounds reasonable. What else do you want us to tell you...?</p>
<p>Maybe you should post this in the Parent Forum. They would know this a LOT better (experience, etc.)</p>
<p>you should've already got your aid package w/ your acceptance letter.</p>
<p>My family's adjusted gross income was just under $40k last year (but my dad has a housing allowance so he makes just under $70k) and I have 6 siblings. My sister's EFC for this year was about $10k. We don't really have savings because prior to 2 and a half years ago my dad was making so little that we were going further into debt every month.</p>
<p>I don't think the EFCs make sense at all, in general.</p>