<p>I see a question on my sons apps that ask if anyone in the family receives financial assistance or free/reduced lunches. Why do they ask this and does it hurt or help you to answer yes or no? Not sure what this has to do with applying to college.</p>
<p>It indicates your family’s income level. Often colleges look for students who have excelled despite lower income. </p>
<p>Conversely, colleges biased against kids who need lots of FinAid (or are “need aware”) may use this against you. The latter situation is less common.</p>