FAFSA and CSS Profile Recommended Deadlines

In the financial aid process, schools often use manufactured deadlines to prompt early action from families. While it is true that you can still qualify for financial aid if you apply after the school’s recommended deadline, which in most cases is Feb. 15 for incoming freshman, you may risk missing out on financial aid.

Some schools, especially more costly private schools, award merit- AND need-based financial aid on a first come, first served basis. For this reason I recommend adhering to the deadlines recommended by the schools you are pursuing.

Follow these links to see what you should know about the FAFSA and the CSS Profile.

Many families that I speak with that complete the forms themselves say the FAFSA and the CSS Profile require at least a few hours of their time. As your school’s deadline approaches, I would recommend setting aside ample time if you plan to do these forms on your own.

Most schools that you are applying to will likely require the FAFSA. However, there are nearly 400 schools that ALSO require the CSS Profile. If you’re not sure if your schools require the CSS Profile you can review this list for participating colleges and universities.

If you are interested in utilizing my services to help you complete the FAFSA or CSS Profile please let me know ASAP so we can meet and complete the forms prior to your school’s deadlines. I am confident that families can complete these forms themselves, but if you would at least like a review of the forms prior to submission to schools to ensure you are maximizing your financial aid eligibility I can do this for as little as $100 per form.

Good luck. Be sure to let me know if you have any questions!