<p>Is it best to have FAFSA and CSS filled out by the January 1st regular application deadline for most schools?</p>
<p>You will typically want the CSS filled out well before January 1st. More likely in November for the schools that want it. The FAFSA cannot be completed at all until January 1st.</p>
<p>Check the the financial aid priority deadlines at each school you are interested in to find their specific target dates.</p>
<p>Remember that you need to have accurate estimates for the FAFSA and Profile when completing them prior to the completion of your taxes. SO…make sure your parents (and you) save pay stubs and bank statements, etc. Any financial aid award you receive based on the FAFSA/Profile done with estimates, will also be an ESTIMATED award until you amend them to reflect that your taxes are completed and the figures on the forms align with your tax returns. This is NOT the year to wait to file taxes. You and your parents want to complete your 2009 taxes ASAP after Feb 1 when you should have all of your documents from employers, and financial institutions. And yes, I DO know that the self employed can apply for an extension. This is NOT the year to do that either. </p>
<p>If you apply EA, for example, you may receive an estimated financial aid award. It will not be finalized until your taxes are completed and the amended finaid forms are sent to the schools.Schools can and WILL adjust awards if the figures are different. You want to have a firm financial aid award in place before you make a college matriculation decision.</p>