Our Commitment To

Increasing Access

Learn how CSS Profile supports low-income students with a shorter application experience and generous fee waivers.

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A Streamlined Application

CSS Profile is piloting a shorter, lighter application option. The lighter application experience reduces student questions by half. Financial aid professionals say the shorter application option does not compromise data integrity, particularly for low-income families.

Estimated Student Aid Index

The lighter application delivers an estimated Student Aid Index to institutions which may be used to estimate federal grant and loan eligibility.

Increased Completion Rates

Initial data indicates that students completing the lighter application are more likely to submit and complete the application.

More Schools, Greater Impact

More schools are signing on to pilot the lighter application feature. The more schools that participate the greater the impact to students.

"With the lighter application experience, we have been able to complete more financial aid applications from our applicants coming from first-gen low income backgrounds. This has allowed us to put more financial aid awards into these students' hands earlier in the process."

CSS Profile Institution

Implementing the Application

College Board is ready to support institutions interested in CSS Profile, including delivering expedited set up and launch. 

Supporting Students

Many institutions are choosing to implement the lighter application option for specific populations, particularly low-income students. Connect with us to learn more about targeting CSS Profile use for students who may benefit most.

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Expanded Fee Waivers

College Board is committed to reducing barriers for low-income students through our fee waiver program.

Fee Waiver Eligibility

Undergraduate students living in the U.S. with a family adjusted gross income (AGI) up to $100,000 submit CSS Profile for free.

More Students

Approximately 40% of students, including 77% of DACA/undocumented students and 85% of first-generation students, submit the CSS Profile for free.

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Interested in learning more about CSS Profile?

Prospective Institutions

If your college or school is considering using CSS Profile or the lighter application option, complete this form to schedule a meeting with us.

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Current Institutions

If you're a current CSS Profile institution, call or email us and a member of our team will assist you.

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