Application Basics

For new students, the essential steps are:

1. Indicate on your application that you intend to apply for financial aid. There is no separate Carleton form required to apply.
2. Submit the FAFSA -- the U.S. Department of Education's Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
3. Submit the CSS/PROFILE -- the College Board's PROFILE form.
4. Submit your tax forms -- parents and students are required to submit completed signed copies of their most recent federal income tax returns along with W-2s to verify the data on the FAFSA and PROFILE.

Be sure to submit these materials by the appropriate deadlines (see sidebar at right). We recognize that families may need to use prior year tax returns and estimated figures to meet these deadlines. It is permissible to file with estimated numbers provided you submit actual figures as soon as possible.

Special Circumstances

• Divorced, separated, or never married parents:
  • The custodial parent should complete both the PROFILE and FAFSA.
  • The noncustodial parent should complete the College Board's Noncustodial PROFILE online. 
  • Carleton assumes the noncustodial parent will contribute toward the student's college costs to the extent that is reasonable.
• Parents who are self-employed or own a business or farm:
  
  • Complete the College Board's Business/Farm Supplement by downloading and printing the PDF and submit it directly to Carleton.
  • Include all schedules when submitting federal tax returns.