<p>Assume that an applicant has sufficient funds in her name to cover the cost of tuition at any school in the country to which she intends to apply. Yet, assume that her EFC shows a relatively small, unmet need due to the manner in which FAFSA calculates the availability of those assets to meet her need. And, even though expected parent contribution is zero, her parents and other family members could and would make up whatever additional need were to exist.</p>
<p>Also assume that she has constructed a list of 10 schools to which she intends to apply, 3 reaches, 4 matches and 3 safeties.</p>
<p>As I read the college apps, and supplements, the applicant tells the school whether she is looking for financial aid. And, schools are listed on the FAFSA submission so that they receive the EFC. But, it is not required that an applicant list all schools to which she applies.</p>
<p>So, can the applicant submit EFC to the 4 matches and 3 safeties and not the 3 reaches?</p>
<p>If so, is there any admission advantage to the student at the reach schools by the indication she has no need for financial assistance? </p>
<p>I think this is probably just a simple question of whether the particular schools are "need blind," and whether that actually is how the applications are viewed. But I am curious how zero need might positively effect her chances at 3 schools that are of particular interest to her.</p>