The 2027–2028 financial aid season has begun! Seniors attending college in fall 2027 can now begin completing their financial aid applications.
Complete the 2027–2028 FAFSA
The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for federal financial aid and can also be important for state and institutional aid.
Some colleges — particularly private and highly selective institutions — also require the CSS Profile to determine eligibility for institutional financial aid. Not every college requires it, so check your school’s requirements. College Board reports that participating institutions use the CSS Profile to award more than $14 billion in nonfederal aid each year.
Don’t rule out a college based only on its sticker price. Apply for financial aid first and see what the actual financial aid package looks like.
Free College-Cost Resources for Families
College Board’s Open Doors initiative provides free resources designed to help students and families better understand college costs and financial aid.
Resources include:
- Four Tips for Affording College — available in English and Spanish
- What Will College Cost? 10 Questions to Ask
- Guidance on FAFSA, scholarships, and financial aid
- Questions families can take directly to a college financial aid office
- Explore College Board Open Doors Resources
- Families: Start having conversations about paying for college before acceptance letters arrive.
