<p>So I literally only /just found out that, unlike the FAFSA, the CSS PROFILE is open to be filled out before January 1st of 2013.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, I've early applied at quite a few schools, and most of them have a PROFILE deadline of . . . five days ago. I'm getting it all done tonight, but what does missing the early application deadline mean? Am I automatically excluded from need-based awards? Is my decision going to be bumped back to the regular decision pool? Will I receive my decision on time, but have to wait for a financial aid offer? Help?</p>
<p>I suspect 5 days is not too big a deal. Just get it done ASAP (it might take you a couple of days, I found it to be a bear to fill out). The way I think about this is that most schools have thousands of applications and their related documents to deal with. I think it is super important to get the actual applications and supplements in, but often the financial aid pieces trickle in a bit later. Even if they are waiting for it… they have a zillion other applications to look at if they want to see your financial need before considering your admission. I actually don’t think they will penalize the student (this is really a parent component anyway) if it is a week or so late.</p>
<p>Thanks so much for the quick response! Yeah, that’s what I thought, too, considering the FAFSA won’t even open until January, but it’s nice to hear affirmation!</p>
<p>Call the schools and ask THEM. Answers will vary…depending on the school. IF you applied ED, it is possible that your late application will result in the school NOT being able to process your financial aid application in time to send your financial aid award with your ED acceptance. </p>
<p>But really…this is the schools’ call!</p>
<p>Intparent…actually the financial aid applications are a STUDENT component, filed with parent information. It is the STUDENT who files the Profile and the FAFSA.</p>