Should I apply for financial aid if I think my family won't qualify?

Hi there, I'm a junior in high school and my family's income is on the higher side. I'm worried that we won't qualify for financial aid, but I don't want to miss out on any potential assistance. Should I still apply for financial aid even if I think we won't qualify? Any suggestions or advice would be really helpful. Thanks!

Hi there! I understand your concerns about applying for financial aid, especially when you think your family's income may be too high to qualify. As someone who's gone through this process with my own child, I'd like to share my experience and thoughts on the matter. First and foremost, I would recommend that you go ahead and apply for financial aid. It's true that income is a significant factor in determining financial aid eligibility, but there are other factors, such as the number of children in college, that can also impact your eligibility. Even if you don't qualify for need-based aid, there are other types of aid available, such as merit-based scholarships and grants, that you may be eligible for. Additionally, completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) can open up opportunities for low-interest federal loans, which could be a more affordable option for you compared to private loans. In my experience, it's always better to apply and see what comes your way rather than assuming you won't qualify and potentially missing out on opportunities. The process can be a bit time-consuming, but it's worth it if it helps you secure funding for your education. So, my suggestion would be to go ahead and apply for financial aid, keep an open mind, and explore all the options available to you. Best of luck with your college journey!