<p>Hi - our FAFSA EFC came back at 99999. Two private universities our daughter applied to also require the CSS Profile, but my husband and I are hesitant to spend the time completing it as we don't believe it will make any difference. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.</p>
<p>Some schools require the forms in order to be considered for merit aid, and for some if you don’t apply in freshman year, you can’t apply in subsequent years even if circumstances change drastically.</p>
<p>Thanks zoosermom for the quick reply. One of the private schools our daughter applied to already gave her merit aid equal to a free year of tuition. This was prior to doing the FAFSA. The other school posts their available merit scholarships on their website and it doesn’t look like our daughter qualifies for any of them. So that’s why we think it might be a moot point to file the CSS Profile for these two schools.</p>
<p>There are several conscientious experts on here (like zoosermom) who will remind those who ask your question of the things they should be mindful of before deciding NOT to do the FAFSA or CSS. You should be sure to consider those points.</p>
<p>However, know that there are many people who, after carefully considering those points, decide it is NOT worth filling out the FAFSA or CSS. After you get over the bummed out realization that need-based aid was never in the cards for you, it is actually rather liberating. :-)</p>
<p>Truthfully, it’s up to you whether to complete the financial aid applications or not. You have completed the FAFSA which will allow your child to take out a Stafford loan in her name (unsubsidized as you have no need). As mentioned, be sure that the school will allow you to apply in subsequent years if NEEDED. Some schools will not award institutional aid in subsequent years if a student doesn’t apply as an incoming freshman.</p>
<p>A belated thank you Skyhook and thumper1. I decieded to fill out the CSS Profile anyway even knowing we will likely not get a cent. I figured it’s kind of like the lottery - you probably won’t win but you definitely won’t if you don’t play!</p>