<p>Applying for financial aid seems, frankly, like a waste of time if there is no possibility of getting any financial aid. Do colleges require one to file anyway to be eligible for merit schol $$ or are the 2 treated separately.......so that not filing for financial aid does not interfere with the ability to obtain a few $$ via a merit schol. ?? Thanks.. ( Sure wish there was a universal set of rules to follow (</p>
<p>It depends on the school. Yes, at some schools you must file for financial aid in order to receive merit money.</p>
<p>Your best bet would be to follow the instructions and make sure you meet the criteria for merit aid at the schools that you are interested in attending.</p>
<p>Thanks very much. I wish all colleges would compile one universal set of rules...it would certainly make life a bit easier. Enjoy. MBJ</p>