A Guide to Understanding the CSS Profile
By David H. N., PhD
The CSS Profile is a web portal created by the College Board to help students get non-federal financial aid directly from colleges. While it does not replace the FAFSA, which is meant to help students get financial aid from federal sources, it is worth your while to fill one out. Here is a three-minute summary of the CSS Profile.
What Colleges Require It?
Mostly private colleges require the CSS Profile, though some out-of-state programs at public universities also require it. If you are not sure, you can check each college’s financial aid page, or search on the CSS Profile website. The main page has a linked called “Check Participating Schools and Scholarships” that lists all colleges that participate.
What Will You Need to Fill It Out?
The hardest part of filling out the CSS Profile is collecting the required documents. Thus, it is helpful to inform parents that start gathering the following documents beforehand. Make sure to keep digital copies of the following documents.
· Social Security information.
· Parent(s) and student tax returns (W-2s, 1040s), including recent pay stubs and records of untaxed income.
· Statements on bank and investment accounts, the value of your business or farm, and mortgage and home equity information.
· Some schools may request information about divorced/separated parents, or noncustodial parents.
When Do You Submit the CSS Profile?
Each college has their own deadline for submitting the CSS Profile, which is not the same deadline as the FAFSA. Therefore, make sure to check the due dates for each school.
You should fill out your CSS Profile as early as possible, usually in the Fall of your senior year of high school, so that colleges can consider it in time before college acceptances are decided starting in December and extending through April. While there is a fee to submit the CSS Profile, there are also conditions that allow students to get a fee waiver. Check the CSS Profile website to see if you qualify.
As with everything else in the college applications season, planning is key! Share this article with your parents and start the process to help you get the most financial aid you can from scholarship foundations and colleges.
