<p>I wonder if failure to apply for aid, especially in cases where you are not expecting much if any, can increase chances for admission in many schools.>></p>
<p>The answer is yes. Not at all schools, but at many, especially those who admit to being "need aware". However, not applying for financial aid is more likely a tipping point in admissions --- in other words, it won't get you in in and of itself if you don't have the stats...but if it comes down to a choice between two candidates with very similar stats, one who is applying for aid, and one who isn't, the lack of a need for financial aid can tip the one over the other.</p>