<p>For privates, do I have to file both the CSS Profile and FAFSA? For instance, Northwestern University has both of them in their steps. What’s the difference between the two?</p>
<p>If they ask for both you must file both if you wish to be considered for financial aid. Schools that require both generally use FAFSA for determining any federal aid eligibility and CSS for their own institutional aid. CSS asks for a lot more infomation than FAFSA.</p>
<p>I have another question…</p>
<p>The CSS profile asks if I have any legal dependents. Does this include my parents?</p>
<p>Probably not. Unless you are a very unusual family your parents are not likely to be your dependents. It is more likely that you are their dependent. If you are providing more than 50% of their financial support then they might be your dependent.</p>
<p>^Ohhh, I seee. Understood. Thank you very much. =]</p>