It recently came to my attention that, when submitting the common application, I neglected to enter my social security number in one of the sections (SS is optional, so it labeled the section as completed anyway). I would like to be eligible for financial aid at the schools to which I’m applying, but I understand that is not possible without them knowing my SS#. What would be the best course of action to fix this? If I simply enter it on the common app will the colleges receive some sort of update on my profile, or do I need to contact each school individually?
You need to give your SSN on the applications for FA. The school will have to match your application for admission to your application for FA, which they will do by your name and address.