<p>will i reduce my chance (or have any effect) of getting into the college if i initially said that i would apply for FA but now i decided that i will not do so?</p>
<p>my instincts tell me that it wouldn't have any bearing on your chances, because what matters isn't applying for FA, but qualifying for it. Bill Gates's son could technically apply for financial aid, but he would obviously not receive any.</p>
<p>Amherst is need blind so your needing aid would not be a factor in the admissions process</p>
<p>President Marx told parents in meetings that about 50% of students in the class of 2009 are receiving aid. His focus is on getting the best student body Amherst can get, and FA isn't an issue.</p>
<p>What about internationals?</p>
<p>President Marx is trying to get need blind for internationals. It is in the works, I believe. At this time, there is no need blind policy for you. However, I have heard from other internationals that they did receive a nice FA package.</p>