FAFSA ID and CSS Profile
As we approach October, take time to read through this brief guide for better understanding FAFSA and the CSS Profile.
For those that have worked with me through college list building, you may recall the Big J’s data resources that these two independent counselors (Jennie and Jeff) have compiled regarding out-of-state acceptances or merit aid for non-need students. They also generously create an annual guide that is concise in nature, but informative to better understand the nuances of financial aid. (Many thanks to them!)
FAFSA opens Oct 1- It's important that both the student and parent create their FSA IDs now in case any issues arise with getting verified.
Create FSA IDs now - Both the student and one parent create a login.
Some students are getting flagged and will need to provide a valid government-issued ID. You only have ONE chance to do this, so have a smartphone or tablet on hand as well as your government-issued ID. If asked, you will only have a few minutes to do this!- Is the ID current and not expired?- Do you have a phone or tablet ready?- Do this soon in case there are any holdups.
CSS Profile - Many private schools (see list) also require a more detailed financial picture that captures more assets than the FAFSA. You will want to complete both FAFSA and the CSS Profile near the time of applying to the colleges.
Students can use their College Board login, the same one used for the SAT testing, AP, etc. If they don’t have one, they will create one. Parents will use this student login to complete the CSS Profile.
Frequently asked questions about financial aid:
- My income has dramatically changed since my 2025 tax year. What should I do? Complete FAFSA as it is asked, then ask for a Special Circumstances form from each college to explain your situation.
- We are a divorced family. Who fills out FAFSA? Use this Parent Wizard to determine the parent contributors.
- What counts as an asset? Do I include my business? Do I include my 401K? See asset list
- Will my student see my financial information on FAFSA? No, and you can’t see your student’s info as your accounts are accounts.
- A parent-owned 529 college savings plan for which the student is the beneficiary should be reported as a parent asset, not a student asset. Student assets are assessed at 20% by the FAFSA (25% by the CSS Profile). The parent assets are assessed at 5.64% by the FAFSA (5% by the CSS Profile) - from Big J's data
You can also check the FAFSA Help Center for more information. While I’m not a financial aid advisor, I can try to answer questions about both financial aid forms.