Student Aid Index (SAI)
If you're considering college after high school and starting to plan for how to pay for college, you may have heard the term “Student Aid Index”.
The Student Aid Index (SAI) is an eligibility index number that your college’s or career school’s financial aid office uses to determine how much federal student aid you would receive.
This number is a result of the information you provided on your FAFSA application form. Your SAI number is not a dollar amount of aid eligibility or what your family is expected to provide.
Take The Financial Aid Quiz
The Financial Aid Quiz provides an estimated range of your Student Aid Index (SAI), which helps determine how much federal financial aid you may qualify for by providing the following information:
- Parental Household
- Parent Income
- Parent Assets
- Student Finances
Don't get dismayed if you are not projected to not receive federal funding. It is important for you to complete the FAFSA application as some institutions require the application to qualify for institutional grants and scholarships.
For school costs and estimates, use your school's Net Price Calculator to further assist your financial planning.
FAQ
What is the Student Aid Index (SAI)?
The Student Aid Index (SAI) is an eligibility index number that your school’s financial aid office uses to determine how much federal student aid you would receive if you attended the school. This number results from the information that you provide on your FAFSA® form. This number is not a dollar amount of aid eligibility or what your family is expected to provide.
How is the SAI Calculated?
To calculate a Student Aid Index (SAI), the financial aid office will review the information on your FAFSA. This analysis considers the income, assets, and family structure reported on the FAFSA. This will include your information and information related to your parents or spouse.
What goes into the formula for SAI?
The federal need analysis formula used considers all sources of income, both taxed and untaxed. The formula will also include assets and benefits received, such as unemployment or Social Security. The SAI does not include the number of family members in college in the calculation.
Where can I find my SAI number?
Your SAI number will be listed on your FAFSA Submission Summary. Before completing the FAFSA form, you can estimate your SAI using the Federal Student Aid Estimator. Remember that you’ll need to complete the FAFSA to receive an official SAI. We also recommend that you review a more complete picture of college costs by utilizing the Net Price Calculator for your school.