Navigating finances, FAFSA, loans, and scams can seem daunting. Here are some tips to make the process easier and more understandable.
General Financial Aid Tips
Complete Forms by the Deadline
Getting all of the financial information organized to complete the FAFSA & CSS Profile can be daunting. Don’t make it worse by having to organize twice. Plan ahead, and block out some time to focus on the FAFSA and CSS Profile to complete them together, if possible.
Please note: The 2024-2025 FAFSA will open in December of 2023.
Keep up-to-date on FAFSA changes, requirements, and other changes to the 2024-2025 FAFSA on our information page.
Early Decision applicants should complete the CSS Profile by November 15, 2023, and complete the FAFSA as soon as it is available.
Have Tax Information Handy
Both FAFSA and CSS/Profile will require the tax information from two years ago (2022 income tax information is needed for the 2024-2025 academic year). Have this tax information nearby when completing the financial aid applications. You may need to reference it more than once.
Review Resources
CSS Profile Tips
Syracuse University requires undergraduate students interested in applying for any Syracuse University Grant funding to file the CSS Profile. Students are only required to complete the CSS Profile once during their undergraduate career (generally in their first year). Use the guide below to assist you when filing your CSS Profile.
FAFSA Tips
Syracuse University requires all students interested in applying for federal financial aid to file the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually. To avoid common mistakes, check out the following resources.
Warnings about Financial Aid Consultants and Scholarship Scams
Special Circumstances
Sometimes special circumstances can impact a student’s financial aid situation, including certain living arrangements or family situations that may change during your time at Syracuse University. This may result in the need to clarify your situation with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs. Read more about Special Circumstances.