Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate student loans to write unbiased product reviews.
- The CSS Profile can help you unlock non-federal funding opportunities for college.
- Every participating school sets its own deadline for the CSS Profile.
- Generally, the CSS Profile opens on October 1 each year.
Understanding CSS profile deadlines
The CSS Profile can potentially open the door to non-federal student aid, through different colleges and scholarship programs. If you want a chance to tap additional funding opportunities, you'll need to submit yours on time. But the CSS Profile deadline varies from school to school.
The CSS Profile is different from the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The FAFSA focuses on distributing federal aid. In contrast, the CSS Profile distributes funds from different funding sources.
Some of the schools that use the CSS Profile include Arizona State University, Baylor University, Duke University, John Hopkins University, Stanford University, and Wake Forest University.
No universal deadline
Unlike the FAFSA, each college sets its own CSS Profile deadline. The CSS Profile opens on October 1, which means you can get started on the form on that date. Different schools have different CSS Profile deadlines.
Typical deadline range
Generally, the deadline falls between January 1 and March 31. As you prepare to enroll in a particular college, you'll need to determine what the deadline is for your particular school. For example, students attending or planning to attend the University of Virginia must complete the CSS Profile by March 1. Students planning to attend the University of Michigan must complete the CSS Profile by March 31.
Early deadlines
If you applied to a school early decision or early action, these deadlines may be even earlier.
Finding your school's deadline
Check the college's financial aid website
You can likely determine the deadline for the CSS Profile at a given school by contacting the financial aid office. This is the most reliable source.
Use the college board's CSS profile website
When you are ready to complete the CSS Profile, it's available through the College Board. If you don't already have a College Board account, you'll need to create a new one. Be prepared to answer questions about yourself and your family. You don't have to complete the entire document in one sitting, you can save it to complete at another time.
Keep in mind that you may have to pay a fee to submit this form. If your family makes less than $100,000 per year, the CSS Profile is free to complete. If your family makes more than this limit, the cost is $25 for the initial application to one institution. After that, you'll pay $16 for each additional institution.
What happens if you miss the deadline?
If you miss the CSS Profile deadline set by the school of your choice, you could miss out on opportunities for grants and scholarships available at your school. Most deadlines are set in stone, which means you can't just submit the CSS Profile later. Plus, some schools have limited funds for institutional aid, meaning those who submit earlier have a better chance of getting aid.
FAQs
Is the CSS Profile deadline the same as the FAFSA deadline?
The FAFSA deadline is June 30, 2025, while CSS Profile deadlines vary by school.
Should I submit the CSS Profile even if I'm not eligible for need-based aid?
Even if you're not eligible for need-based aid, some schools require a CSS profile to award merit-based scholarships.
Can I change the schools listed on my CSS Profile after submitting it?
Yes, even after submission you can update the list of colleges on your profile.
What if my financial situation changes after I submit the CSS Profile?
If your financial situation changes after your submit the CSS Profile, contact the financial aid offices of the schools you've applied to and explain your situation. They may be able to adjust your award package.
Sarah Sharkey is a personal finance writer who enjoys helping people make better financial decisions. Sarah enjoys traveling, hiking and reading when she is not writing. You can connect with her on her blogAdventurous Adulting.
Top Offers From Our Partners
SoFi Checking and Savings Earn up to 4.60% APY on savings balances and up to a $300 bonus with qualifying direct deposit. FDIC Insured. There is no minimum direct deposit amount required to qualify for the 4.60% APY for savings. Members without direct deposit will earn up to 1.20% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet. To earn the $300 bonus, the customer must complete a direct deposit with a minimum initial deposit of $250 in a new SoFi Checking and Savings account within 45 days of clicking to qualify (offer expires 12/31/24).
