SAI & Pell explainers
Plain-language guides to the Student Aid Index and federal Pell Grant.
These explainers break down the FAFSA Student Aid Index (SAI) and the Pell Grant for 2026-27: how the SAI differs from the old EFC, why it can be negative, how household size and assets change the result, the dependency rules that pick your formula, and the AGI-versus-poverty pathways that grant the maximum Pell automatically. Each is general information - verify your situation at studentaid.gov.
Source: U.S. Dept. of Education, 2026-27 SAI and Pell Grant Eligibility Guide. Data as of June 2026.
What changed when the Student Aid Index replaced the Expected Family Contribution.
Negative SAI explainedHow and why the SAI can fall below zero, down to -$1,500, and what it means for aid.
How SAI affects your aidFrom SAI to need, Pell, and your net price at a college.
Family size on the FAFSAWho counts in your household and how size changes the allowances.
Number in collegeWhy the FAFSA no longer divides the parent contribution by students in college.
How assets are treatedWhich assets count, the conversion rates, and what is excluded.
Automatic max & zero PellThe AGI-vs-poverty pathways to the maximum Pell Grant and a negative SAI.
Dependency statusDependent vs independent - and which SAI formula you use.
FAFSA timelineKey 2026-27 FAFSA dates, from opening to disbursement.
Ready to run the numbers? Try the SAI calculator or the Pell Grant calculator.
Last updated: 2026-06-22