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: 2025–2026 CSS Profile

• School code 6081 
• For 2025–2026, use 2023 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 (Available December 1, 2024, 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.
• 2023 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 work, complete the Student Interest form by May 20. Students with need-based financial aid will be given priority consideration.

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