What's the difference between "need-blind" and "need-based?"

Paying for College
1

<p>Hello, I am an international student and I am trying to apply for financial aids that are need-blind and do not affect my admissions policy. I have heard that only 6 colleges in the US give out financial aid using need-blind policy. Does this mean that applying for one won't affect my admission chances? What is exactly the difference between need-blind and need-based?</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Need blind is to do with admissions. It means they don’t take into account whether you need financial aid when making admission decisions. Need aware means they do take into account whether you would need aid when making admission decisions. </p>

<p>Need based is is to do with financial aid. It is aid based on financial need (as opposed to merit based aid). Schools determine your financial need based on your financial information - income/assets etc.</p>

3

<p>There are only six colleges,that are both need blind for admissions AND guarantee to meet full need for all accepted international students. Other schools are either need aware for admissions (your financial need will be considered when your application for admission is reviewed…and your ability to pay could be a factor). OR the colleges do not guarantee to meet the full need for all accepted international students (meaning you could get accepted, but there is not a guarantee that you will receive sufficient aid to attend).</p>

4

<p>@swimcatmom and @thumper1
Thank you! Your replies clarified my question!</p>

5

<p>Yes, there are a number of US colleges that will not admit an international student unless that student can prove they have the resources to pay all of their college costs for 4 years, through their government or family resources. </p>

<p>There also are many colleges that do not offer any aid to international students.</p>

<p>Take a look at the international student section of this website to find the few colleges that are generous with aid to international students.</p>

6

<p>@charlieschm Thank you for your advice! I think there are only 6 colleges that give generous aid and are need-blind to international students.</p>