Common College Application Mistakes and How to Avoid Them #college #collegeapplication #deadlines

What are the college financial aid options for rising seniors applying to college? Here’s what every parent needs to know about the FAFSA, the CSS Profile, and key deadlines.

Let’s start with the FAFSA — the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
This form determines eligibility for need-based aid like federal grants, loans, and work-study.

If your household income is under $200,000, we recommend submitting the FAFSA to make sure your student is considered for all available aid.

The FAFSA opens on October 1. If your teen is applying Early Decision or Restrictive Early Action, many schools require it by November 15 — but each college sets its own deadlines, so always double-check.

Now, what about the CSS Profile – College Scholarship Service Profile?
This is a separate application used mostly by private and highly selective colleges to award their own institutional aid.

If a college requires the CSS Profile, the deadline usually matches the application deadline — whether that’s Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision.

Some colleges only require the FAFSA. Others require both. You can check the full list of CSS Profile schools on the college board website.

And one quick tip:
If a college asks for your financial details during a campus visit or info session, we suggest waiting until after you’ve submitted the FAFSA. That way, you’re working with official, consistent information.

Figuring out financial aid doesn’t have to be stressful.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out — we’re here to help. Let College Help Squad be part of your process.