Financial Aid Question on Common App

While we can afford a local state college, we may not be able to afford and out of state one. While I know we have to complete the FAFSA, I don’t believe we will be eligible for financial aid other than loans. When completing the application, should we sat that we will be applying for financial aid or not? Or do you think that would be used against us? Is a federal lone considered financial aid? Thank you.

If your S/D plans to apply for FA, then yes, it should be stated on the app.
Yes, colleges consider Federal loans as part of a FA package. If you want to have those loans available, you must apply for FA.

If you are only taking federal loans you can apply later.