What does Priority Filing Date Mean? Please help!

Paying for College
1

<p>I filed the CSS Profile before my college’s priority filing date only to find that there were message codes for each school listing things that they wanted (2008 Signed Tax Documents, etc.). </p>

<p>Am I supposed to submit all the documents requested by the schools before the Priority Filing Date or do I only need to submit the CSS Profile by then? </p>

<p>Please help! Thanks in advance!</p>

2

<p>There are two parts to the CSS. The CSS itself, and the IDOC. The IDOC gathers your tax forms, and that happens later. It is a verification process. Filling out the CSS form is what you needed to do by the priority deadline. You may also have to fill out other forms required by your school. There is another deadline for completing the IDOC process (if required by the school). Some schools are strict - loose the award if you don’t complete on time, some are lax - won’t release the award to offset tuition until you comply (have till the summer).</p>

3

<p>Thanks OperaDad. (:</p>

<p>So the schools that use IDOC will contact me and tell me the forms needed and the deadline, right?</p>

<p>Also, what if the school doesn’t do IDOC? Then when would I need to submit the forms by?</p>

4

<p>Every college has their own procedures. CAREFULLY read the financial aid section of their website. If your questions aren’t answered, then call.</p>

<p>The IDOC information will be sent to you from College Board. Generally you send in the cover sheet, copies of tax returns and copies of W-2 statements.</p>

5

<p>Thank you all! Financial aid is now completely demystified! Yay! (:</p>