Financial Aid and Scholarships
FAFSA and CSS Profile
Submitting both the FAFSA and CSS Profile is essential to maximize student’s financial aid opportunities. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) determines eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans. The CSS Profile, administered through Collegeboard is used by many private colleges and universities, provides access to additional institutional aid that can significantly reduce tuition costs. Completing both forms early and accurately ensures you’re considered for the widest range of need-based and merit-based financial assistance available.
To receive priority funding, file your FAFSA no later than the priority filing deadline. Check institution’s EA/ED/RD deadlines for CSS Profile submission dates.
Important Links:
studentaid.gov
cssprofile.collegeboard.org
CSS Profile Participating Institutions
Big-Ticket Scholarships
In addition to considering colleges and universities that cover 100% of demonstrated financial aid, students should apply to scholarships, especially big-ticket scholarships such as the QuestBridge, Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, Dell, and Gates Foundation Scholarship, among others. There are institutional merit-based scholarships that students may apply to once they are enrolled students.
Big-Ticket Scholarships:
questbridge.org
jkcf.org
thegatesscholarship.org
dellscholars.org
possefoundation.org