<p>Quick question: Does applying for financial aid affect whether or not you are accepted to a university for Early Action / Decision? Does it vary with Ivy League or certain universities? Thanks!</p>
<p>Colleges say that they do it on a "need-blind" basis which means that your financial aid needs do not interfer with your ability to get accepted into the school. </p>
<p>but that's what they say, i don't know if they actually keep to their words.</p>
<p>I don't think it generally does. I think EA is a great thing if your motivated to do the work a little earlier. Even without the FA package, it was nice to know by Dec my son had some acceptances.</p>
<p>A doctor I work with was discussing how when you don't need aid though, it does make you more desirable dispite what they say. If your scores are a lower and your package isn't quite as impressive as another, the paying full frieght on tuition is attractive enough to give that edge. He admitted to seeing that a lot with his peers, lack-luster children getting in because they didn't need any aid.
That said, most students do need aid of some sort and I wouldn't let that hold me back from applying EA at all. I've read also, with some colleges, the earlier you apply, the chance of a better package is available.</p>
<p>Most colleges are NOT need blind - very few are. For those colleges that are need blind it is not a factor. For the rest it is. Remember that ED means you will attend. If financial aid is an issue then wait for the RD period, apply to multiple schools and weigh your options.</p>