Returning Students

How To Apply for Financial Aid: Returning Students

Life changes. To make sure your financial aid best reflects your family’s current financial situation, students must apply for financial aid every year. Our goal is to keep aid amounts as stable as possible during your four years at Carleton.

Step 1: 2026–2027 CSS Profile

• School code 6081 
• For 2026–2027, use 2024 tax information. 
• Custodial parents need to complete a CSS profile.
• The CSS Profile is free for families making up to $100,000 a year. For families earning above that, there is an initial fee of $25. Find more information on the CSS Profile website.

Step 2: FAFSA (for U.S. students only)

• Previous FAFSA applicants should login using their StudentAid.gov account. as returning users. Have your FSA ID available (for student and parents) or go to My FSA ID and click “Forgot My Username.” 
• New FAFSA applicants (including parents) must create their Studentaid.gov account before completing the FAFSA.
• 2024 tax information will be pulled directly from the IRS once consent is given on the FAFSA application.
• You must complete the FAFSA if you want to qualify for federal loans, whether subsidized or unsubsidized.

Step 3: Student Employment

If you have not already been hired for the upcoming or current academic year, you can apply for an open position on the Student Job Postings site.

Step 4 (by request only): Submit additional documents

• Our office will contact you by email if additional information is needed to finalize your financial aid offer.
• Please do not submit information by email. You will receive instructions with secure links for any necessary materials.

Key Dates