How to ask about whether to file FAFSA for merit aid only

I know that this has been discussed in several threads about whether one should file FAFSA for merit based aid only and it seems like the answer is to contact each of the schools to determine if they require the FAFSA. How would one suggest doing this? Is it okay for me (parent) to email financial aid office at each school and ask? How would you phrase it? “My D was accepted to X University. Are we required to complete a FAFSA for merit based aid only?” Does that sound okay? Too blunt? I think an email instead of a phone call would help for documentation purposes. I’m not sure what CSS is, but would I ask about whether that is necessary also or if FAFSA is not, then CSS would not? Also, should I wait until she is offered merit before contacting the school or is it okay to ask before to know whether we need to complete it. TIA

Pick up the phone. Call admissions and ask:

“My student is applying for merit aid only. Does your college require us to file the FAFSA and Profile (Profile only for schools requiring the Profile)”

Or send an email with the same query.

You need to check the college financial aid websites for required submissions. If the school requires the Profile for need based aid, the ask about that one too.

If the college does NOT require the CSS Profile, then only inquire about the FAFSA.

The schools will give you this information.

@thumper1 Thank you?

Often merit aid is administered through admissions and not FA. Make sure you are talking to the right department. If FAFSA is required for merit, then of course Admissions will have to coordinate with FA office, but it might be just a question of “Did John file the FAFSA?”

@twoinanddone So you think it would be better to direct the question to Admissions?

If you are calling about merit aid, I would suggest calling admissions. Ask your question…and be clear that you are willing to contact another Department if that is more appropriate.

They will tell you!

My daughter emailed each admission officer for schools that offered merit aid and asked them. They all responded promptly - and fyi the answer was no for all. Essentially “I have applied for admission and will not be applying for financial aid, is the FAFSA required to be considered for merit scholarships?”

@Darcy123 @thumper1 @twoinanddone - thank you!

Please be clear…

“I have applied for admission and will not be applying for NEED BASED aid. Is the FAFSA required for merit only consideration?”

Merit aid is a form of financial aid…it’s just not need based. So be clear.

Oh…and no caps…I just put that there for emphasis.