<p>* money should not be a huge factor (I have demonstrated need-based aid as far as my mom goes, but I do not when it comes to my dad’s income*</p>
<p>It doesn’t matter if you have “demonstrated need” at many match and safety schools. These schools typically do not meet need. So even if you have a lowish EFC, you will likely get gapped at likely/safety schools. </p>
<p>Schools don’t have to do anything with you FAFSA EFC except to see if you qualify for any federal aid, which is not much at all. </p>
<p>Money is a huge factor when applying to MANY schools since they don’t have much aid to give.</p>
<p>For instance, a school like USF may give you a merit scholarship of $15k per year or so, but they may not give you anything else but a $5500 loan. So, it can’t be a safety for you since you don’t know if it’s affordable. </p>
<p>For a school to be a “safety” or likely, you have to know FOR SURE that you have all costs covered. </p>
<p>Do you know how much each parent will contribute?</p>