<p>Is FAFSA basically need-based and is CSS just merit-based?
My mom told me to put no on the common app under "Will you be applying for need-based financial aid?" since she didn't think we'd qualify (which I can't change since I already submitted some apps).
However, I still would like to be eligible for merit-based scholarships, so should I just do CSS or do I need to do both?</p>
<p>Both FAFSA and the CSS Profile are for need based FA. FAFSA is for Federal funds and the Profile is for Institutional funds (monies coming from the college endowment and other institutional sources). As a very general statement, public colleges ask for FAFSA only and privates want both–but there are exceptions–you MUST check each college website for what they require and deadlines.</p>
<p>As far as merit scholarships, some don’t require that you fill out FA forms and others do. Some merit scholarships do have a need component, and they will usually state this on the college website. For some merit based scholarships you will automatically be considered when you are accepted, for others, you need to fill out separate applications which may have different deadlines than applying for admission. </p>
<p>Take home message, you need to go to the website of each college you have/are going to apply to and read their requirements for both need based FA and merit scholarships.</p>
<p>Also…
Some schools require that you complete the financial aid forms for ALL kids of aid (some don’t). </p>
<p>AND some schools will not allow you to apply for institutional need based aid in future years if you do not apply as a freshman.</p>
<p>Read EACH website and do what each school asks and check the DEADLINES.</p>
<p>Thanks! That clears it up!</p>