Does Harvard Require the CSS Profile?

Harvard requires the CSS Profile for its own need-based aid and uses CSS code 3434. FAFSA alone is enough only when a student wants federal aid without Harvard grant aid.

CSS Profile

Required

Prospective students seeking Harvard institutional aid submit the CSS Profile and an IDOC packet. U.S. citizens and permanent residents also submit the FAFSA.

CSS school code

3434

Harvard's CSS Profile code is 3434. Use that code to send the form to Harvard University.

Published financial aid deadlines

Restrictive Early Action and QuestBridge MatchNovember 1

Regular DecisionFebruary 1

TransferMarch 1

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?

Married parents or parents living together file one CSS Profile. If parents are separated or divorced, each parent files a separate CSS Profile. Harvard provides a waiver process when a parent cannot participate.

Documents and next steps

After filing the CSS Profile, applicants use IDOC to submit the required 2025 parent and student tax documents for 2027–28. Harvard says IDOC's default checklist is not the complete school-specific list, so follow Harvard's instructions too.

Official sources for this answer

Harvard College Griffin Financial Aid Office (checked September 25, 2026)

Common questions

Does Harvard require the CSS Profile?

Yes. Harvard requires the CSS Profile for its own need-based aid and uses CSS code 3434. FAFSA alone is enough only when a student wants federal aid without Harvard grant aid.

What is Harvard's CSS Profile code?

Harvard's CSS Profile code is 3434. Use that code to send the form to Harvard University.

When is Harvard's financial aid deadline?

Restrictive Early Action and QuestBridge Match: November 1; Regular Decision: February 1; Transfer: March 1.

Is the FAFSA enough for Harvard?

Not for Harvard's institutional aid. Eligible students should file the FAFSA for federal aid, but Harvard 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.

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