You’re trying to figure out how to pay for college, huh? I get it, college is crazy expensive these days. But don’t stress too much, there are things called the CSS Profile and private college grants that can help cover the costs.
What are these magical things, you ask? Well, let me break it down for you…
What Exactly Is the CSS Profile?
The CSS Profile is an online application that over 400 colleges and scholarship programs use to determine who gets non-federal financial aid like grants and scholarships. This aid comes directly from the colleges and scholarship programs themselves, not the government.
Here’s the key thing – many colleges REQUIRE you to fill out the CSS Profile if you want to be considered for their institutional aid. So if you don’t fill it out, you may be missing out!
Why the CSS Profile Matters
The CSS Profile matters because it gives colleges an additional data point to understand your family’s financial situation. The FAFSA form, which is required for federal aid, does not give as complete a picture.
The CSS Profile digs deeper into things like:
- Your family income and assets
- Medical and dental expenses
- Family debt
- Taxes paid
- Number of family members in college
Colleges use this extra information to determine your “ability to pay”. They then try to meet your remaining financial need through grants and scholarships.
So in many cases, the CSS Profile unlocks access to aid you wouldn’t get otherwise!
Types of Private College Grants
Okay, so the CSS Profile helps colleges determine what kinds of private grants to give you. But what types of grants are we talking here?
There are a few main varieties:
Need-Based Grants
These grants are awarded based on your family’s financial situation. Colleges calculate how much you can reasonably afford on your own. If there’s still unmet need, they may offer you a need-based grant to help cover the gap.
Merit-Based Grants
As the name indicates, these grants are awarded based on achievements like:
- Academic record
- Sports, music, or community involvement
- Minority status
- State of residence
- Chosen major/field of study
The grant amount depends on the strength of your achievements. Even high income families can qualify for merit grants!
Athletic Grants
If you play sports, athletic grants are an excellent way to fund college costs. These grants are given to recruit promising athletes to play on the college’s sports teams.
The money awarded can be substantial, covering a huge chunk of college costs. Exact athletic grant amounts depend on the college division level and sport competitiveness. Top athletes can even get full rides covering tuition, room and board!
Smaller athletic grants are also given to regular college students playing intramural or club sports. So if you play a sport recreationally, check if grants could be available.
How Much Money Are We Talking Here?
Alright, so need-based grants, merit grants, and athletic grants can add up. But do they really make much of a difference cost-wise?
In short – yes, absolutely! Private college grants are a huge money saver every year. On average, grant recipients get over $10,000 in free aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. And the award amount ranges widely, from several hundred to even $50,000 per year from some colleges.
To give a better sense…say your family makes around $75,000 per year. Here are real examples of potential grant packages:
- Michigan State University: $14,000
- University of Chicago: $34,000
- Dartmouth College: $53,000
See why grants make private colleges affordable for many middle class families!
Tips for Scoring Generous Grant Packages
I want you to get the biggest grants possible so your family avoids huge college debt. Here are some tips:
1. Meet All Deadlines
CSS Profile deadlines are earlier than the FAFSA form. Double check so you don’t miss out!
2. Appeal the Award
If your grant amount seems low, contact the financial office to appeal. Send documentation if your finances changed.
3. Apply ED for Better Packages
Ask colleges if applying early decision boosts chances for top grant consideration. Many reserve funds to attract early applicants.
