<p>so my friend told me that i need to do the college board css thing. The deadlines for the schools i applied to are coming up and i don't know any thing about this college board financial aid. i don't want to pay 16 dollars plus 9 per school when i don't even know if i got into the school. can someone please give me some information about this. </p>
<p>thanks</p>
<p>If you want to apply for financial aid, you'll need to meet the requirements of the schools that you're applying for. That means, usually, applying for aid BEFORE you know whether you're accepted by a particular school.</p>
<p>The good news is that much of the aid application process is standardized. Most schools require FAFSA (which is free); some also require the CSS Profile (which costs, but is free for very low income applicants).</p>
<p>You can fill out and submit both FAFSA and Profile online. You'll need your most recent tax returns, and those of your parent(s). They'll want info on your assets (on date of filing) and income for '08. Ditto your parents. Estimate income and tax info now to meet deadlines, then correct later.</p>
<p>Some schools also have their own application.</p>
<p>SO-- check the website for each of the schools on your list, find out their requirements and deadlines, and get to it!</p>
<p>ok thank you so much. This clears things up for me.</p>
<p>Don't want to upset you, but it's 9 dollars for an application and $16 per school ;)</p>
<p>You may still qualify for waivers if your family's assets are very low.</p>