What is an online financial aid application of the college board?

The College Board's online financial aid application, known as the CSS Profile, is a tool used by many colleges and universities to assess a student's financial need. It collects detailed information about a family's financial situation, including income, assets, and expenses. Unlike the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the CSS Profile is often required by private institutions for determining eligibility for institutional financial aid. Students can complete the application online, and it typically requires a fee, although fee waivers are available for eligible applicants.