<p>For Early Decision does Northwestern require you to fill out a CSS form and send it to them along with your application, or do they just want a FAFSA report later in the year?</p>
<p>I’m wondering the same thing, but according to their undergrad website, they want you to file CSS before December 1…</p>
<p>im wondering the same thing…</p>
<p>The application process can be confusing and daunting.
The site stipulates: “If you are admitted under Early Decision and apply for financial aid, you will be notified of your aid decision around the time of your acceptance, provided your family has filed the College Scholarship Service Financial Aid Profile by December 1. Students admitted under Early Decision may be released from the commitment to enroll at Northwestern only for financial reasons.”
My interpretation-You have your parents fill out the CSS form based on last years 2008 tax returns. If I remember the form correctly, they do ask if there are any special circumstances-ie-loss of job/earnings on the CSS. I do not remember if they ask you to update that information for your new tax returns after you have been accepted, or just work off the FAFSA you file next year.
I hope this helps-APOL-a mom</p>
<p>You file a CSS by December 1st based on estimates, I believe, and then you also file a FAFSA by mid-February based on actual tax returns.</p>
<p>My parents grumbled at the due date, but it does require them to get their taxes done not just on time, but even get a jump on it. Heh.</p>