<p>Part 1: Richmond uses information gathered on the Richmond In Reach Supplemental Financial Aid Application and from federal tax returns in addition to the data on the FAFSA to determine EFC. We use federal methodology and institutional policies to determine EFC. </p>
<p>Part 2: We calculate aid packages using the “total cost of attendance” rather than the straight tuition, room and board figures. Total COA includes tuition, room and board as well as allowances for personal expenses, books and supplies, etc. (though your actual spending may be higher or lower than the allowances). The total COA for the 09-10 academic year is $50,630. </p>
<p>So your eligibility will be based on Total COA – EFC = eligibility. </p>
<p>With need-based aid, there is not a guarantee of the size of your award from year to year. All students must apply for need-based aid annually, and as your family’s circumstances change (in either direction), so can your aid award amount. We will always meet 100% of your eligibility. </p>
<p>IMPORTANT NOTE: This answer only applies to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. International student aid is a different process.</p>