Does Barnard Require the CSS Profile?
Barnard requires the CSS Profile for institutional need-based aid and uses CSS code 2038. Its current page has conflicting early-plan dates, listing November 1 in the deadline table and November 15 in the detailed instructions, so applicants should confirm the portal deadline.
CSS Profile
RequiredFirst-year applicants seeking Barnard institutional aid submit the CSS Profile, including domestic and international applicants. Federal-only students can file the FAFSA without the Profile, and Barnard does not fund spring or international transfer applicants with institutional aid.
CSS school code
2038Barnard's CSS Profile code is 2038. Use that code to send the form to Barnard College.
Published financial aid deadlines
These are the school's currently published 2026–27 dates. A late or updated application cycle can use different dates, so confirm the deadline shown in your applicant portal.
Which parent files?
When parents are divorced or separated, Barnard requires each parent to complete a separate CSS Profile and provide tax records. Its own noncustodial-parent waiver petition is rarely approved, and Barnard does not accept the College Board or IDOC waiver form.
Documents and next steps
Use Barnard CSS code 2038. Upload tax returns, W-2s, nonfiler forms, waiver petitions, and any requested follow-up items through Barnard's applicant portal. Barnard does not participate in IDOC, so the personalized portal checklist is the submission and tracking source.
Official sources for this answer
- Barnard 2026–27 financial aid application instructions (checked August 2, 2026)
- Barnard financial aid FAQs (checked August 2, 2026)
Common questions
Does Barnard require the CSS Profile?
Yes. Barnard requires the CSS Profile for institutional need-based aid and uses CSS code 2038. Its current page has conflicting early-plan dates, listing November 1 in the deadline table and November 15 in the detailed instructions, so applicants should confirm the portal deadline.
What is Barnard's CSS Profile code?
Barnard's CSS Profile code is 2038. Use that code to send the form to Barnard College.
When is Barnard's financial aid deadline?
Early Decision and QuestBridge, current deadline table (the plan-specific section also says November 15): November 1, 2025; Regular Decision: January 15, 2026; Fall transfer: March 15, 2026; Current student renewal: April 15, 2026.
Is the FAFSA enough for Barnard?
Not for Barnard's institutional aid. Eligible students should file the FAFSA for federal aid, but Barnard uses the CSS Profile separately to evaluate its own need-based funding.
Estimate the rest of your aid
The CSS Profile does not tell you what federal aid you may receive. Estimate that separately, then compare the result with each college's net price and your outside scholarship options.