Aid Application Instructions
The Office of Undergraduate Financial Aid provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for completing a financial aid application. Deadlines vary based on your application plan (early decision, regular decision, international applicant, or transfer).
Applicants and their families are encouraged to begin the process early and submit all requested forms by the deadlines. For students meeting the deadline for their application plan, financial aid award notification will be sent with or soon after your acceptance letter. This allows you to make an informed decision about Northwestern with full knowledge of the financial commitment necessary from your family.
To apply for financial aid:
- Indicate on the application for admission you are requesting consideration for financial aid.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Northwestern University School Code is 001739.
- Complete the College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS Profile). The Northwestern University School Code is 1565.
- Upon completion of the CSS Profile you will be contacted by the College Board's Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC) to submit copies of your parents' and, if you are filing, your own federal income tax returns, W-2s, and schedules.
| Freshmen Filing Deadlines | Early Decision | Regular Decision |
|---|---|---|
| CSS Financial Aid Profile Application | December 1 | February 15 |
| FAFSA | February 15 | February 15 |
| Federal Tax Returns and W-2 forms | March 5 | March 5 |
| Transfer Filing Deadlines | Fall Quarter | Winter Quarter |
|---|---|---|
| CSS Financial Aid Profile Application | March 15 |
October 1 |
| FAFSA | March 15 | October 1 |
| Federal Tax Returns and W-2 forms | April 15 |
October 1 |
International students, please refer to our page on International Student Financial Aid Application Instructions.
