<p>Thank you arcadia for your input!</p>
<p>My School is a member and is fully accredited by NEASC and it is also affiliated with several prestigious international associations so I imagine that my scores can be competitive with schools in the USA. </p>
<p>I guess what had confused me most is how Financial Need was calculated, I think that I now understand how it works. What I still don’t have clear is if I should apply for Financial Aid or if that is determined by a College once I submit my application with my scores and personal information. I mean, if all of the schools you mention do not offer merit awards, but are based on demonstrated need how does it work out in the application process? I understand I have to fill out the CSS Financial Aid Profile, but I don’t know if that is required on every application? </p>
<p>I know Amherst is need blind, still I imagine that the ability to pay is in fact taken into account at some point, and I do understand that given the choice between a full paying american student and an international student that needs aid with similar profiles, they would not choose me, still, there is a small chance which gives me some hope.</p>
<p>I am not sure at what point during the admission process the financial scenario is taken into account by the other colleges. You think that even with a good profile I have a high chance of being rejected due to my inability to pay full tuition? Or will my stats be reviewed and then taken the financial situation into account? </p>
<p>I am making assumptions based on the ideal scenario that I would be Accepted in at leas a couple of colleges, but I understand that with my situation its like swimming against the tide. Still I have to give it a try!</p>