For parents and high school seniors alike, the process of applying for financial aid for college can be overwhelming. My own mother (6 kids in 7.5 years), took this bull by the horns. I still admire in amazement what she was able to do. Learning this process and completing it well is no easy task. And while the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the most well-known financial aid application, there is another application that some colleges require: the CSS Profile. In this post, we’ll learn the tips to starting and completing the CSS Profile. We’ll also cover some schools that require it and the cost to do so.
What is the CSS Profile?
The CSS Profile is a financial aid application that is used by some colleges and universities to determine a student’s eligibility for institutional financial aid. Unlike the FAFSA, which is used to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, the CSS Profile is used to determine eligibility for institutional grants, scholarships, and loans. It’s important to understand what the difference is between schools that use the Institutional Methodology (requires the CSS Profile & FAFSA) and the Federal Methodology (requires only the FAFSA).
Which Colleges Require the CSS Profile?
The CSS Profile is not required by all colleges and universities, but it is required by many of the most selective and prestigious institutions. Some of the colleges that require the CSS Profile include:
- Brown University (Ivy League)
- Duke University (ACC)
- Georgetown University (Big East)
- Harvard University (Ivy League)
- Johns Hopkins University (Centennial Conference)
- Northwestern University (Big Ten)
- Pomona College (SCIAC)
- Rice University (Conference USA)
- Stanford University (Pac-12)
- Tufts University (NESCAC)
- University of Chicago (UAA)
- University of Notre Dame (ACC)
- University of Pennsylvania (Ivy League)
- Vanderbilt University (SEC)
- Williams College (NESCAC)
This is by no means an exhaustive list. What I’ve also noticed and have heard is people mentioning that state schools require the FAFSA, while only private prestigious schools require the CSS Profile. That’s not true. For example here are 3 schools that are public universities that require the CSS Profile:
It’s important to check with each college to which you are applying to determine whether they require the CSS Profile. When it comes to starting and completing the CSS Profile, a great free site you can use is collegedata.com. For a comprehensive list of schools, look here.
What Information Do You Need to Complete the CSS Profile?
The CSS Profile requires much more detailed financial information than the FAFSA. In addition to the information you’d need for the FAFSA, you will also be required to provide information about any noncustodial parents (divorce). On the FAFSA, you only need to list the parent who you are living with the majority of the time. For the CSS Profile, you’ll need to list both parents. In addition to that, you’ll need to list financial information not included on the FAFSA.
Here are some of the documents and information you will need to complete the CSS Profile:
- Your Social Security number and your parents’ Social Security numbers
- Your driver’s license number (if you have one)
- Your most recent tax return and W-2 forms
- Your parents’ most recent tax return and W-2 forms
- Information about any untaxed income, such as child support or workers’ compensation
- Information about any noncustodial parents, including their income and assets
- Information about your parents’ assets, including home equity, retirement savings, and other investments
- Information about your own assets, including savings accounts and investments
Tips for Completing the CSS Profile
Completing the CSS Profile can be a daunting task, but there are some steps you can take to make the process easier:
- Create a CollegeBoard account. (This was probably already completed if you’ve taken the SATs)
- Gather the necessary documentation listed above.
- Gather your list of schools and determine if they require the CSS Profile. Remember, you can check the list of schools on the link above.
- Complete the application – but double check your work!
- Submit. Only do this after you’re sure everything has been completed in its entirety.
- Check the CollegeBoard site for updates. If a correction needs to be completed, you can see that on your CollegeBoard dashboard.
Cost of the CSS Profile
The CSS Profile is not free, but it can be for certain families. The initial CSS Profile application costs $25. Each additional application? It will cost you $16. Depending on how many schools you’re applying to, this can add up quickly.
The good news is that there are fee waivers available to low-income undergrads who received an SAT fee waiver. Waivers are also available to orphans or wards of the court under 24 years old. These requirements are only applicable to domestic undergraduates.
Conclusion
Starting and completing the CSS Profile is no easy task. But by following the tasks outlined above, you’ll be well on your way. As my mother was able to do – organizing and staying ahead on deadlines is critical. But she taught herself this information – and it took time. If you need someone to assist, I’m here. Right here to help. I want you and your child to achieve the life and dreams you want – without overspending or over worrying.
