Need-Blind versus Need-Aware

When financial need is a concern for students submitting applications to US universities, there are two main designations that should be considered. Need-Blind universities will not use an applicant’s economic status as a determining factor for acceptance. However, Need-Aware universities may consider a students’ financial needs as part of the application process.  For international applicants, many universities that are Need-Blind still require students to pay something toward their college tuition. An understanding of Need-Blind versus Need-Aware can provide a strategic monetary advantage for a family and should be considered when formulating a student’s list of preferred schools.

Below is a complete list* of Need-Blind universities in the United States in 2020. The bolded universities are full-need-met, no-loan schools for international students. To help you in your decision-making process, please inquire with our Branksome Counselors for more information on Need-Blind and Need-Aware Universities and Colleges.

*list adapted from the following article - https://blog.prepscholar.com/need-blind-colleges-list

The Branksome Hall Asia University Counselors