What does an automatic zero EFC mean for me?

<p>Hi there. :) My mother makes under 15k, and I know this qualifies me for an automatic zero in the EFC department. Now, will this help me or harm me when applying to colleges? Can some schools deny you based on something like this....? Thanks for any info.</p>

<p>There are two categories of schools when it comes to the roll that FA plays in admissions decisions:</p>

<p>Need aware: financial need IS a factor in admissions decisions; so yes, you could be denied due to your financial need.</p>

<p>Need blind: financial need is NOT considered when making admissions decisions.</p>

<p>Caution, do not confuse need blind with providing 100% of need, they are not the same thing although some schools do both. Need aware/blind has to do with admissions decisions, while 100% of need concerns the FA package that accepted students receive.</p>

<p>Hmm... that upsets me... but I know that a college is a business and would rather fill seats with paying customers over "risks". <em>Sigh</em></p>

<p>You are correct, colleges are businesses. There are quite a few schools that will not turn you away due to need, though. But, as entomom warns, that doesn't mean they'll give you all the money you need. If you have a 0 EFC, you'll often need to borrow a lot of money. It's wise to apply to some schools that meet 100% of need.</p>

<p>Well some schools look for diversity and sometimes that means diversity in terms of socio-economic status. Really, there are Pelt Grants and all kinds of scholarships for financial need. Just start applying ASAP.</p>

<p>You can get grants, scholarships and lower loans. Some schools are really limiting loans particularly with low income families. There is a way just get out there and apply to the RIGHT schools.</p>

<p>I totally agree with Atlmom, the time to figure out which schools will give you a financial package you can afford (be it FA, merit scholarships or both) is now, when you're planning on which schools to apply to, not after decisions are in and FA packages have been awarded.</p>