The CSS Profile is an online application used by colleges, universities, and scholarship programs to award non-federal institutional aid. It is administered by the College Board, the same organization behind the SAT and other standardized tests. The CSS Profile is used primarily by private colleges and universities to award non-federal aid, including some of the nations most selective and expensive schools. Completing the CSS Profile can unlock access to millions of institutional financial aid dollars.

Here are some key facts about the CSS Profile:

• Who should complete it? Not all colleges and scholarship programs require the CSS Profile, so students should check with the ones theyre interested in to see if they require it. Some schools may also require divorced or separated parents to complete separate applications.

• When should it be completed? Most students complete the application in their senior year of high school, but schools may have different deadlines, so its important to check with each school youre applying to.

• How is it completed? The CSS Profile is submitted online at cssprofile.org. Students will need to create an account and gather necessary documentation, such as federal tax returns and other financial information. Help is provided within the application, and additional help is available in English and Spanish by chat, phone, or email.

• What does it cost? The CSS Profile is free for domestic undergraduate students whose family income is up to $100,000. The fee for the initial application is $25, and additional reports are $16 each.

Completing the CSS Profile can be an important step in unlocking access to non-federal financial aid for college.