<p>If I am sure I will get a full scholarship to USC from merit, do I need to file the FAFSA? Is it required before they give out any money, or can I just not send it to them?</p>
<p>Short answer is Yes. Full scholarship doesn't cover ALL costs, laundry, movies, recreation, travel to/from if needed, etc. I have a daughter in another college on academic scholarship and they still required FAFSA.</p>
<p>Figure out your EFC first. If you think you'll qualify for need-based aid - based on your EFC - then fill out the FAFSA. It's alwyas a good idea to at least fill out the FAFSA for the first year, and see what happens.</p>