Confused about ranking order on FAFSA

So I’m reading different things – do we list colleges in order of our ranking? If a State school should we automatically put it first? In 2015 when my daughter applied order was important, but now I’m reading it isn’t? For my son it is further complicated because several of the schools he is applying to are music conservatories which are much harder to get into…not sure how to list things!

I believe that in general the order no longer matters because colleges can’t see your whole list anymore.

HOWEVER, I believe some states require State U to be #1 in order to be considered for state scholarships & aid. I’m pretty sure I found the official reference once by googling. I remember seeing all the states listed with their requirements. Maybe you can find it again.

Found it for you

https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/fafsa/filling-out/school-list

“For purposes of federal student aid, it does not matter in what order you list the schools. However, to be considered for state aid, some states require your schools to be listed in a specified order. Scroll down or click on the name of your state below to find your state’s guidance for listing schools on your FAFSA form.”

Thank you! @alooknac