<p>So I know I'm not going to qualify for need-based aid, so I said on all my apps that I'm not applying. I'm hoping to get some merit money though at certain schools. I thought I was still supposed to fill out the FAFSA/CSS so I did anyway. Will that confuse schools because I said I'm not applying for aid but then filed for it?</p>
<p>We did the same thing too, because I want my son to get unsubsidized Stafford loans, and the only way to do that is to fill out the FAFSA. I think the schools will see that your EFC is above the COA and simply not offer any need-based financial aid. That's what I'm expecting.</p>