Completing the CSS Profile Video Transcript

As part of our financial aid application process, Cornell uses the College BoardÕs CSS Profile to determine your eligibility for Cornell grant funds. This online application asks for detailed income and asset information for you and your parents, and is available October First of each year.  

Students can sign in using their SAT log in information.  While filling out the CSS Profile, you should answer every question you have information for, even if it is not in a required field. 

To personalize your application, all applicants will need to complete the Parental Relationships section and include all parents.  If applicable, the student must select a college that requires the CSS Profile from the noncustodial parent before that parent will be able to complete their application.  If you include your noncustodial parentÕs email address, the College Board will send them instructions to complete their own CSS Profile Application. Through your Dashboard, you can resend the CSS Profile requirement as many times as needed.  Before the noncustodial parent can provide their information, they must create a separate College Board account.

Most users spend between 45 minutes and 2 hours completing the Profile, so be sure to set aside enough time before you begin, and gather necessary financial records for both yourself and your parents. You should have:
„	the previous yearÕs income tax returns
„	W2s and other records of income earned for the current and previous tax year
„	Records of untaxed income and benefits for the current and previous tax year
„	Current bank statements and mortgage information and
„	Current account statements for stocks, bonds, trusts and other investments

You will be required to pay a fee in order to submit the CSS Profile to Cornell. Fee waivers are available through the CSS Profile for low-income students, and you will be notified if you qualify, or you may be directed to request a fee payment code from Cornell. 

Here are some additional tips while completing the Profile: 
„	You can navigate between sections as needed and save your answers to exit and return later to complete the application. However, be sure to double check all answers, because you will not be able to go back and make changes online once the application is submitted. 
„	Enter zeros in fields that do not apply, instead of leaving fields blank. 
„	Be aware of CornellÕs filing deadlines for the CSS Profile
„	Keep your username and password in a secure location, as you will need it to return to the Profile application and reapply in future years.
„	Once your application has been submitted, your Dashboard will provide you with a direct link to the Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC) Š an important next step in applying for financial aid.
„	If you need assistance while completing the Profile, the application has tips to help guide you. You can also view an Interactive presentation on the College BoardÕs website, or contact the College BoardÕs customer service department. 

Please visit our website for additional information, or contact our office if you have any questions.