Does Grinnell Require the CSS Profile?
Grinnell uses CSS code 6252 for most institutional-aid applicants entering in fall 2027, but domestic and eligible noncitizen QuestBridge Match applicants use only the FAFSA. Spring 2027 transfers use the previous aid cycle; international students unable to file the Profile may use the online ISAFA.
CSS Profile
Most domestic, eligible noncitizen, domestic noncitizen, and international applicants seeking Grinnell institutional aid submit the CSS Profile. Domestic and eligible noncitizen QuestBridge Match applicants need only the FAFSA, while international and domestic noncitizen Match applicants use the Profile. International applicants unable to file it may use Grinnell's online ISAFA; federal-only applicants need only the FAFSA.
CSS school code
Grinnell's CSS Profile code is 6252. Use that code to send the form to Grinnell College.
Published financial aid deadlines
Which parent files?
If biological or adoptive parents are not married or are separated and live in different households, each household completes its own CSS Profile. A remarried noncustodial parent includes the stepparent, and a no-contact applicant may submit a waiver petition with supporting records.
Documents and next steps
Use Grinnell CSS code 6252. Fall 2027 domestic applicants send a signed and dated custodial-parent 2025 federal return, schedules, and applicable W-2s through IDOC; spring 2027 transfers use 2026–27 forms and 2024 tax records instead. International applicants using the online ISAFA should not send extra items such as a Certification of Finances.
Official sources for this answer
- Grinnell prospective student aid requirements (checked September 25, 2026)
- Grinnell aid application overview and QuestBridge exceptions (checked September 25, 2026)
Common questions
Does Grinnell require the CSS Profile?
Yes. Grinnell uses CSS code 6252 for most institutional-aid applicants entering in fall 2027, but domestic and eligible noncitizen QuestBridge Match applicants use only the FAFSA. Spring 2027 transfers use the previous aid cycle; international students unable to file the Profile may use the online ISAFA.
What is Grinnell's CSS Profile code?
Grinnell's CSS Profile code is 6252. Use that code to send the form to Grinnell College.
When is Grinnell's financial aid deadline?
Spring 2027 transfer (2026–27 forms): November 1, 2026; Early Decision I: November 15; Early Decision II: January 5; Regular Decision: January 15; Fall transfer: March 1.
Is the FAFSA enough for Grinnell?
Not for Grinnell's institutional aid. Eligible students should file the FAFSA for federal aid, but Grinnell 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.