Does Colby Require the CSS Profile?
Colby requires the CSS Profile for institutional need-based aid and uses CSS code 3280. Its current 2027–28 process puts the Profile, FAFSA when applicable, and complete 2025 family tax packet on the same admission-plan deadline.
CSS Profile
RequiredDomestic and international applicants seeking Colby institutional aid submit the CSS Profile. Eligible U.S. applicants also file the FAFSA, while applicants seeking only federal grants or loans may submit the FAFSA without the Profile.
CSS school code
3280Colby's CSS Profile code is 3280. Use that code to send the form to Colby College.
Published financial aid deadlines
These are the school's currently published 2027–28 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, separated, or never married, Colby requires a separate Non-Custodial CSS Profile from the parent outside the primary household. Applicants without that parent's information may submit Colby's documented noncustodial-parent waiver request.
Documents and next steps
Use Colby CSS code 3280. Submit every page and schedule of the student's and parents' 2025 income tax returns, plus W-2 forms, through College Board IDOC. A parent or student who was not required to file uses Colby's separate current non-filer statement.
Official sources for this answer
- Colby applying for financial aid (checked August 2, 2026)
- Colby international applicant aid requirements (checked August 2, 2026)
Common questions
Does Colby require the CSS Profile?
Yes. Colby requires the CSS Profile for institutional need-based aid and uses CSS code 3280. Its current 2027–28 process puts the Profile, FAFSA when applicable, and complete 2025 family tax packet on the same admission-plan deadline.
What is Colby's CSS Profile code?
Colby's CSS Profile code is 3280. Use that code to send the form to Colby College.
When is Colby's financial aid deadline?
Early Decision I: November 15, 2026; Early Decision II: January 4, 2027; Regular Decision: January 15, 2027.
Is the FAFSA enough for Colby?
Not for Colby's institutional aid. Eligible students should file the FAFSA for federal aid, but Colby 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.