CSS PROFILE

The St. Olaf CSS PROFILE code is: 6638

Apply online!

What is the CSS PROFILE?

The CSS PROFILE is a financial aid application that many private colleges use to determine a student’s eligibility for institutional need-based grants. It utilizes an in-depth needs analysis basing your family’s contribution to your college fees on three years of income. St. Olaf students only need to complete the CSS PROFILE before their first year. It does not need to be completed to renew financial aid.

The CSS PROFILE requires a small fee.

Where do I get a copy of the CSS PROFILE?

You may submit the CSS PROFILE by applying online here.

How do I complete the CSS PROFILE?

While the CSS PROFILE is not a difficult application to complete, it takes time and effort. You may not have your tax information complete at the time we require you to complete your CSS PROFILE so your best option is to estimate your current year's income. It is often helpful to look back at your previous year's taxes to help you more accurately estimate.

You and/or your parents will need these documents to complete the CSS PROFILE:

  • Tax returns
  • W2s
  • Records of untaxed income
  • Current bank statements
  • Current mortgage information
  • Business and farm records
  • Records of stocks, bonds, and other investments
  • Social Security benefits and retirement plan information

If your custodial parent’s marital status is separated, divorced, or remarried, you will be sent an e-mail alerting you that your non-custodial parent needs to complete the NON-Custodial PROFILE. Your non-custodial parent will also need the above documents in order to complete their required portion of the CSS PROFILE accurately.

Along with biographical, financial and personal information, you must indicate you want St. Olaf to receive your CSS PROFILE in order for the school to receive your results.

St. Olaf’s CSS PROFILE code is: 6638

When should I complete the CSS PROFILE?

You can complete the CSS PROFILE as early as October of the student’s senior year. Deadlines for the CSS Profile are as follows:

    • Early Decision 1: November 15
    • Early Decision 2: January 15
    • Regular: February 1

Remember, it can take a couple of days for the CSS PROFILE to be processed. Plan ahead!