<p>I use college board calculator to calculate my EFC both federal and institutional method. My IM comes out a number much less than FM, FM number is very close my actual EFC from FAFSA. I am wondering which number the college will use to determine family contribution. Thank you in advance.</p>
<p>Rule of thumb- if the school uses FAFSA only they are FM, if they also ask for CSS profile they will use IM number. If private school really wants your child they will use any number they want...</p>
<p>Thanks for the reply. I am considering a private school asking both FAFSA and CSS profile.</p>