International Student in the USA, applying for political asylum. How would college work?

I’m an international student living in the USA (I have a non-immigrant visa).
I’m also in the process of applying for old total asylum. I’m a HS junior and applying this fall. However, I’m sure that I won’t receive my asylum decisions by the time I apply, thus I would apply for colleges on a visa WHILE my asylum application is pending. How much would this hurt? If I’m granted asylum, I would no longer be considered an international student but that would happen after the college application cycle. Would I be able to receive financial aid?

@Trinity @MaineLonghorn I posted in the wrong forum by mistake.
Could a mod please move this to the international student forum?
Thanks.