Around 400 colleges and universities require the CSS Profile in addition to the FAFSA for students seeking institutional financial aid. If you're applying for need-based financial aid at private colleges or selective public universities, you'll likely need to complete the CSS Profile.
The CSS Profile is a financial aid application managed by the College Board. While the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) determines eligibility for federal aid, the CSS Profile helps colleges distribute their own institutional aid. CSS Profile asks more detailed questions about your family's finances than the FAFSA does.
CSS Profile costs $25 for the first college and $16 for each additional college. Fee waivers are available for students whose families make under a certain income threshold.
Most public state universities require only the FAFSA:
Always verify the specific requirements for your target schools, as policies can change.
Financial Detail. CSS Profile asks about home equity, retirement accounts, and assets that FAFSA doesn't consider. Families often find their expected contribution is higher on CSS Profile than on FAFSA.
Cost. FAFSA is free. CSS Profile charges a fee for each school.
Purpose. FAFSA determines federal aid eligibility. CSS Profile determines institutional aid from the college itself.
Noncustodial Parent. Some CSS Profile schools require financial information from both parents, even if they're divorced. FAFSA requires information from only the custodial parent.
Most schools want CSS Profile completed by early November for Early Decision/Early Action applicants and by February or March for Regular Decision applicants. Check each school's specific deadlines.
You create a College Board account and complete the CSS Profile online at cssprofile.collegeboard.org. You'll need tax returns, W-2 forms, and information about assets, investments, and other financial details.
Some colleges have recently stopped requiring CSS Profile, including:
Always check the current financial aid requirements on each school's website.
CSS Profile schools tend to be well-funded private institutions that meet full demonstrated financial need. While CSS Profile requires more financial detail, students from low- and middle-income families often receive generous aid packages from these schools.
Gather Documents Early. You'll need detailed financial records. Start organizing tax returns and financial statements in September.
Understand Your Family's Finances. Talk with your parents about income, assets, and special circumstances that might affect aid eligibility.
Apply for Fee Waivers. If your family qualifies, the College Board automatically waives CSS Profile fees when you submit.
Complete Both Applications. Even if a school requires CSS Profile, you still need to complete FAFSA for federal aid eligibility.
Navigating college applications involves many moving parts, from test scores to financial aid forms. At LifeWorks, we help families understand the full college planning process. Whether you need support with academics, essays, or understanding financial aid requirements, we're here to help. Get in touch to learn how we can support your family through college preparation.
Do I need CSS Profile if I'm not applying for financial aid?
No. CSS Profile is only required if you're applying for need-based institutional financial aid. If you're not seeking financial aid, you don't need to complete CSS Profile.
Can I add more schools to CSS Profile after submitting?
Yes. You can add additional schools to your CSS Profile at any time. You'll pay the additional school fee ($16 per school) when you add them.
What if my parents are divorced?
Many CSS Profile schools require information from both biological parents, even if they're divorced or separated. Some schools require a Noncustodial Parent Profile. Check each school's specific requirements.
How long does CSS Profile take to complete?
Expect to spend 1-2 hours completing CSS Profile, especially if you need to gather financial documents. It asks more detailed questions than FAFSA.
Will CSS Profile hurt my financial aid chances?
No. CSS Profile helps schools give out their own institutional aid. Schools that require CSS Profile often have generous financial aid budgets and meet full demonstrated need for admitted students.
Do I complete CSS Profile every year?
Yes. You must complete CSS Profile annually to continue receiving institutional financial aid. Deadlines vary by school but are typically earlier than FAFSA renewal deadlines.
