<p>I'm stuck with perhaps the most basic question on college applications, lol. I don't know whether or not I should put down that I want financial aid. I know that some schools say that it has no impact on acceptance, but if so, why would they ask?</p>
<p>The other reason is that I know that I will likely not get a dime. My parental combined income exceeds $250K, and at just about every school in the nation, I won't be eligible for any need-based aid. I don't think that I'm eligible for any federal aid either, especially since I'll be the only child in college.</p>
<p>If I'm not going to get any money anyways, should I apply for aid?</p>
<p>You’re right that you won’t get need-based aid. </p>
<p>It’s ok to put that you won’t be applying for aid if all you’re later going to do is get a small federal student loan (which is all you’d qualify for).</p>
<p>however, do any of the schools require you to submit a FAFSA for merit consideration (some schools do, but many don’t).</p>
<p>So, what is your situation? Have your parents said that they will pay for whichever school you get into? If you don’t know, then ask.</p>
<p>However, if your parents say that they can’t/won’t pay $55k per year, then you need to also apply to some financial safety schools that will give you merit money for your stats.</p>