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FAFSA & CSS Profile
When it comes to paying for college, understanding the different financial aid applications is essential. Two of the most commonly used forms are the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile (College Scholarship Service Profile). While they both serve the purpose of helping students receive financial aid, they differ in significant ways.
Here’s how they compare.
What Is the FAFSA?
Website: 🔗 www.studentaid.gov
Who Uses It? All students seeking federal financial aid must submit the FAFSA.
What It Covers: Pell Grants, federal student loans, work-study, and some state and institutional aid.
Who Requires It? Virtually every accredited college or university that offers federal aid.
What Is the CSS Profile?
The CSS Profile, administered by the College Board, is used primarily by private colleges and universities to determine eligibility for institutional (non-federal) aid.
Website: cssprofile.collegeboard.org
Who Uses It? Over 300 colleges, universities, and scholarship programs, mostly private institutions.
What It Covers: Non-federal aid, including school-based grants and scholarships.
Who Requires It? Institutions with their own funds to distribute beyond federal aid.
Cost: There is a fee to submit the CSS Profile, though fee waivers are available for qualifying students. Please consult your school of choice for more information.
Do You Need to Submit Both?
Always check each school's financial aid website to verify which forms are required.
Tips to Stay Ahead:
Submit Early: Deadlines vary, and aid is often first-come, first-served.
Use Resources: Follow the🔗FAFSA tutorial and try the Financial Planning Calculator at Higher Edu Pro.
Sign Up for Reminders: Get deadline alerts and financial aid updates by signing up for SMS reminders at higher-edu-pro.com/signup-form.
Bottom Line
The FAFSA is your gateway to federal aid and is essential for nearly every student. The CSS Profile is additional and required by specific institutions to unlock their own financial aid resources. Knowing which to submit—and when—can make a huge difference in your aid package.
For more help navigating financial aid, visit 🔗www.higher-edu-pro.com.
