<p>Could I do that if my family faces difficulties paying the EFC for my first year even though we’ve signed and agreed to that EFC in the first place?</p>
<p>I don’t think you understand the concept of EFC. EFC is what the college expects your family to pay. Whether it faces difficulties paying it or not, is not the college’s problem… Also you have to fill out all the forms next year and get a new EFC based on your family’s financial situation the next year. Though you certainly can discuss the numbers with the financial aid officers at the college and if there are some truly extenuating circumstances, there may be changes made, this is not something that is changed just because you have trouble meeting it. Also EFC is the exact term for FAFSA’s expected family contribution. If you are going to Princeton, they have their own number that they use. By all means, if there are things that are happening that are not reflected in the financial aid application, do discuss them with the office. But a general, “it’s difficult for them to pay” is not gonna do the job. Most families have a tough time paying for college.</p>
<p>That’s part of the reason S is going to Chicago with merit money as opposed to similar offer from Princeton based on EFC. Like cptofthehouse says you have to fill out all the forms every year and you could qualify for more or for less.</p>