merit scholarships? does it hurt?

<p>i'm filling out the future plans for wustl. i am planning on applying for need based aid but i don't think i am going to apply for merit based aid because the subject i want to study in college, i haven't had much experience with (it's italian by the way). would this somehow hurt my chances of admisison if i put yes for need based aid and no for merit? or should i just put yes for both but end up not applying for merit?</p>

<p>Nope, it won’t hurt.</p>

<p>As Ryan mentioned merit doesn’t hurt (in fact it helps as it shows interest). Need is what hurts (but only slightly).</p>

<p>Definitely apply for merit; it can only increase your chances no matter what.</p>