FAFSA & CSS: Who Should Actually Fill Them Out
Every fall, families start asking the same question: “Do we need to fill out the FAFSA or CSS Profile?”
The short answer: it depends.
Below is a clear breakdown of when these forms are essential - and when “just fill it out” might cause more harm than good.
what these forms actually do
🧾 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
Determines eligibility for federal and institutional need-based aid, including grants, work-study, and low-interest loans.
💻 CSS Profile
A more detailed form used by about 200 (mostly private) colleges to award institutional aid.
💡 If your family won’t qualify for need-based aid (or your student won’t apply for loans or work-study), you can likely skip these.
who should complete them
You should complete one or both forms if:
✅ Your family may qualify for need-based aid (based on income, assets, or special circumstances)
✅ Your student plans to take out federal student loans or participate in work-study
✅ The college requires these forms for need-based aid
📍 Try the Federal Student Aid Estimator to see if you’re likely to qualify.
typical income ranges
Under $80,000 (with average assets) Often qualifies for significant aid, especially at private colleges.
$80,000–$150,000 May qualify at higher-cost schools or with multiple children in college.
$150,000–$250,000 Unlikely to qualify unless special circumstances exist (business losses, medical expenses).
Over $250,000 Generally, do not qualify for need-based aid. May be eligible at higher-cost schools or with multiple children in college.
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💼 Small business owners or families with fluctuating income:
If your income varies or shows business losses, you might still consider filing. Colleges view business income differently, and sometimes those losses affect eligibility
Who should not complete them
If your student is only seeking merit-based scholarships, you can skip the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
Many well-meaning people will say:
“What’s the harm? Just fill it out — you never know.”
But that can backfire:
They’re not required for merit scholarships
Errors or delays can hold up admissions
Pending FAFSAs can complicate waitlist movement
Mistakes create unnecessary red tape
💬 Bottom line: If you’re not applying for need-based aid, these forms can cause more harm than good.
merit-based scholarships =/= need-based aid
One of the biggest myths we hear:
“We have to fill out the FAFSA to get merit scholarships.”
That’s false. Merit scholarships are awarded based on GPA, test scores, essays, or talent — not your family’s financial situation. Filling out the FAFSA or CSS Profile will not increase eligibility.
Fafsa & CSS Myths: BUSTED
❌ Myth: Everyone should fill out the FAFSA.
❌ Myth: You need the FAFSA for merit scholarships.
❌ Myth: Filling it out can’t hurt.
❌ Myth: Colleges require it for all applicants.
✅ Truth: Only families applying for need-based aid or loans should file.
✅ Truth: Merit scholarships are based on achievement, not income.
✅ Truth: Errors or delays can hold up admissions or aid decisions.
✅ Truth: Most don’t require it for merit-based scholarships or admission.
recent federal changes
FAFSA Simplification
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is now the Student Aid Index (SAI)
The 2026–27 FAFSA will be shorter and easier to use
IRS data retrieval is now automatic
Loan Changes Starting July 2026
New limits on lifetime borrowing
Graduate PLUS Loans discontinued for new borrowers
New Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) replacing old models
👉 If your student starts college in 2026 or later, these changes could affect your aid strategy.
helpful tools
The FAFSA and CSS Profile are valuable tools — but only for families applying for need-based aid.
Before filing, ask yourself:
“Are we applying for need-based aid — or just merit-based scholarships?”
Be intentional. Be accurate. And remember:
✨ Merit aid never requires financial aid forms.
Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher, or advisor—you recognize the tremendous benefit of higher education and its impact on shaping one’s future. And no matter your role within this incredibly defining decision-making process, it can be a stressful time for you.
I’m here to be your advisor, organizer, tutor, cheerleader, friend, and compass through this journey. I’ve helped over 2,000 students locate and gain acceptance to the college of their dreams, and I’m so excited to help you, too.
Let’s get to work!
-Allie Pierson, Founder