Carly Altman | Head Editor
December 5, 2024
If you are planning to pursue higher education, the cost of attendance will likely play a significant role in where you choose to attend college. If you are hoping to qualify for financial assistance, there are two imperative forms you must complete: the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS Profile). These online forms allow students to apply for both federal and non-federal financial aid from colleges and universities.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The FAFSA is a free form that connects eligible students with federal financial aid, such as federal grants, loans, and work-study funds. Federal grants are aid that does not need to be repaid, loans are borrowed funds that are required to be paid back with interest, and work-study jobs provide students with funds to put towards the cost of their tuition. With the 2025-2026 FAFSA form opening for completion, it is crucial to fill it out as soon as possible to allow you to understand the financial support available to you throughout the college admissions process.
With the FAFSA being shortened and simplified in recent years, it is an extremely accessible tool for students looking to receive financial aid. “The FAFSA is a great resource for students planning on going to college,” explained senior Madelyn Mitchell. “The shortened application makes it simple to fill out and the form provides students with more equal access to getting a degree.”
College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS Profile)
The CSS Profile is an online form used to award students with non-federal financial aid. This form is utilized by many private institutions across the country. To send your CSS Profile to the universities of your choice, the first submission costs $25 and each additional report costs $16. However, there are fee waivers available for qualifying students. This profile connects students with scholarships and grants outside of the federal aid the FAFSA provides. “It’s crucial to look into the CSS Profile deadlines,” advised senior Isabella Noble. “Many universities have set dates for early action, early decision, and regular decision regarding when the CSS Profile is expected to be submitted for aid consideration.” While the CSS Profile is a significantly longer application than the FAFSA, it is an extremely important form to fill out if you hope to maximize your access to financial aid.
Even if you do not think you will qualify for financial aid, it is always a good idea to fill out the FAFSA and CSS Profile. Financial situations are always subject to change, and these forms provide extensive monetary resources that are extremely beneficial to funding higher education.
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