Does Occidental Require the CSS Profile?

Occidental requires the CSS Profile for need-based aid and uses code 4581. Its fall 2027 entry calendar adds Early Action alongside Early Decision I, both with November 1 aid dates in the current checklist; the school has not printed an aid-year label on that checklist.

CSS Profile

Required

Applicants seeking Occidental need-based aid indicate that intent on the admission application, then complete the CSS Profile and applicable FAFSA. Non-U.S. citizens seeking need-based aid follow Occidental's separate international financial form. Its aid checklist includes first-year and transfer routes, while California residents may also need Cal Grant GPA verification.

CSS school code

4581

Occidental's CSS Profile code is 4581. Use that code to send the form to Occidental College.

Financial aid deadline status

Early Decision I and Early Action aid materialsNovember 1

Early Decision II and Regular Decision aid materialsJanuary 10

Spring transfer aid materialsNovember 1

Fall transfer priority aid materialsMarch 1

Occidental's aid checklist does not print an aid year beside these dates. The college confirms that its new Early Action route begins with fall 2027 entry; verify the other dates and applicable aid-year forms for your entry term before filing.

Which parent files?

Occidental requires a separate noncustodial-parent CSS Profile when parents are divorced or separated. Applicants should enter both households as the Profile directs and check the admission portal for any additional family records.

Documents and next steps

Use CSS code 4581 and, if eligible, FAFSA code 001249. After filing the Profile, upload signed family federal tax returns, schedules, and applicable W-2 forms through College Board IDOC. Follow the applicant portal for receipt status and any outstanding checklist items.

Official sources for this answer

Occidental financial aid application checklist and deadlines (checked September 26, 2026)
Occidental announcement of Early Action for fall 2027 entry (checked September 26, 2026)

Common questions

Does Occidental require the CSS Profile?

Yes. Occidental requires the CSS Profile for need-based aid and uses code 4581. Its fall 2027 entry calendar adds Early Action alongside Early Decision I, both with November 1 aid dates in the current checklist; the school has not printed an aid-year label on that checklist.

What is Occidental's CSS Profile code?

Occidental's CSS Profile code is 4581. Use that code to send the form to Occidental College.

When is Occidental's financial aid deadline?

Early Decision I and Early Action aid materials: November 1; Early Decision II and Regular Decision aid materials: January 10; Spring transfer aid materials: November 1; Fall transfer priority aid materials: March 1.

Is the FAFSA enough for Occidental?

The FAFSA supports eligible applicants' federal and state aid, but Occidental also asks need-based aid applicants for the CSS Profile. International applicants must follow the school's separate international financial form.

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.

FAFSA estimator Net price calculator Find scholarships Occidental SAT and ACT policy

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