Does Northwestern Require the CSS Profile?
Northwestern requires the CSS Profile for institutional aid and uses CSS code 1565. Domestic tax materials go through IDOC, while the international document route is different.
CSS Profile
RequiredFirst-year applicants seeking Northwestern institutional aid complete the CSS Profile. Domestic applicants also file the FAFSA; students seeking only federal aid can file the FAFSA without a CSS Profile.
CSS school code
1565Northwestern's CSS Profile code is 1565. Use that code to send the form to Northwestern University.
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?
If biological or adoptive parents are divorced or separated, Northwestern requires the custodial and noncustodial parent to complete separate CSS Profiles. Applicants without contact with a parent should contact the aid office.
Documents and next steps
Use Northwestern CSS code 1565 and FAFSA code 001739. Domestic first-year applicants send signed tax returns and W-2s through IDOC after the Profile; international applicants use Northwestern's secure upload instructions instead.
Official sources for this answer
- Northwestern application deadlines (checked August 2, 2026)
- Northwestern early decision aid instructions (checked August 2, 2026)
Common questions
Does Northwestern require the CSS Profile?
Yes. Northwestern requires the CSS Profile for institutional aid and uses CSS code 1565. Domestic tax materials go through IDOC, while the international document route is different.
What is Northwestern's CSS Profile code?
Northwestern's CSS Profile code is 1565. Use that code to send the form to Northwestern University.
When is Northwestern's financial aid deadline?
Early Decision: December 1; Regular Decision: February 1; Transfer: March 15.
Is the FAFSA enough for Northwestern?
Not for Northwestern's institutional aid. Eligible students should file the FAFSA for federal aid, but Northwestern 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.