The CSS Profile is an online application that collects information used by nearly 400 colleges and scholarship programs to award non-federal aid. (For federal aid you must complete the FAFSA, available Oct. 1 at fafsa.ed.gov.) Some colleges may require the CSS Profile from both biological/adoptive parents in cases of divorce or separation.

• If required, the CSS profile must be completed IN ADDITION TO the FAFSA or CADAA

• Students should submit no later than two weeks before the EARLIEST priority filing date specified by their colleges

• The fee for the initial application is $25. Additional reports are $16

Students may receive CSS Profile Fee Waivers:

• If the student qualified for an SAT fee waiver

• If the student is an orphan or ward of the court under the age of 24

• Based on parental income and family size (e.g. family of 4 would qualify with income of $45,000 or less)