10/15/2026
🚨 COLLEGE-BOUND SENIORS & PARENTS: THE FAFSA AND CSS PROFILE ARE OPEN! 💰🎓
You've been working hard on college applications, but have you started thinking about how you're going to PAY for college?
Here's this week's GOMO Application Tip:
💡 Applying for admission and applying for financial aid are TWO different processes!
Understanding the difference between the FAFSA and CSS Profile is an important part of navigating the college application process.
💵 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for federal student aid, including grants, work-study, and loans. States and colleges may also use it to award financial assistance.
🏛️ CSS Profile
Some colleges and scholarship programs require the CSS Profile to determine eligibility for institutional financial aid. Completing the FAFSA doesn't automatically mean you've completed every financial aid requirement!
📋 Here's what families should do NOW:
✅ Identify which colleges on your list require the FAFSA, CSS Profile, or both.
📅 Check each institution's financial aid deadlines. They may be different from admissions deadlines!
👨👩👧 Determine what parent or contributor information may be required.
💻 Start gathering the necessary financial documents and create your StudentAid.gov account if you haven't already.
🔎 Review each school's financial aid website for additional forms and requirements.
Don't let a missed financial aid deadline become an unexpected obstacle in your college journey.
At GOMO, our team of experienced higher education and admissions professionals helps students and families navigate the college application process with strategy, clarity, and confidence.
From understanding application requirements and managing deadlines to developing essays and reviewing completed applications, we're here to help you put your strongest application forward.
📅 College application season is moving quickly! Book your admissions consultation with GOMO today.
Guidance informed by experience. Strategy centered on your story. Just the beginning! Wait and see!
