The Student Aid Index (SAI) replaced the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) under the FAFSA Simplification Act, starting with the 2024-25 form. Four changes matter most for your bottom line.
The four changes
| Change | EFC (old) | SAI (now) |
|---|---|---|
| Negative floor | $0 minimum | -$1,500 minimum |
| Students in college | Contribution divided by # in college | No division |
| Asset protection allowance | Age-based shelter | $0 |
| Income protection allowance | Lower tables | Higher tables |
1. The SAI can be negative
A negative SAI flags the deepest need and locks in the maximum Pell Grant. The EFC could never go below zero, so the SAI now distinguishes among the lowest-income families.
2. No more sibling discount
This is the change most likely to raise your number. Under the EFC, two students in college roughly split the parent contribution. The SAI applies the full parent contribution to each student. See number in college.
3. No asset protection allowance
Parent assets used to be sheltered on an age-based scale. For 2026-27 that allowance is $0, so reportable assets count from the first dollar (the home and retirement accounts are still excluded). See how assets are treated.
4. Higher income protection allowances
The amount of income shielded for living costs went up, which lowers available income and the SAI for many families. See the IPA tables.
Estimate the net effect on your family with the SAI calculator.
General information, not financial-aid advice. Verify at studentaid.gov. Source: 2026-27 SAI and Pell Grant Eligibility Guide.