Financial Aid with the CSS Profile

<p>Does anyone know if you have to apply for financial aid before you get accepted from that school? The schools im applying to want a CSS profile, but my mom thinks something is wrong because why should we send in a CSS profile, which costs money, to a school we're not sure im going to be accepted into or not. Im doing ED so they want the CSS profile early compared to regular decision candidates and I already know about the FAFSA. I just have questions and concerns about the CSS profile submission times because now Collegeboard is asking for money (again).</p>

<p>Yes, you have to apply for financial aid before you get accepted. While most schools are need blind, schools that are need sensitive/need aware will consider your ability to pay for admissions purposes (however, this will usually happen at the end of the cycle).</p>

<p>If you are applying ED, and you need aid, then you will need to file the CSS profile. If you don’t file the CSS profile, you will not be considered for institutional aid from the school. You could end up being accepted and not getting any money.</p>

<p>cool. thnx for the info</p>