Undergraduate Financial Aid

Factors Considered in Brown's Need Analysis Formula

Learn more about how Brown calculates a family's financial contribution to the student’s education.

A Brown education represents a major investment to students and their families. Cost is one of several factors that a student will have to weigh when choosing a college. At Brown, we believe that, to the extent possible, the primary responsibility for paying for college lies with a student and their family. Families typically pay for college using a combination of three sources: savings, current income, and future income (including loans).

Determining a family's contribution to educational expenses is a complicated process. Below are the general categories we use to establish the Parent Responsibility. If you have concerns or require clarification, feel free to contact us.

Brown University utilizes an Institutional Methodology (IM) when calculating the Family Responsibility.

 

Major Factors Comprising the EFC