Does Vassar Require the CSS Profile?

Vassar requires the CSS Profile from domestic and international applicants seeking Vassar scholarship aid and uses CSS code 2956. International applicants must use the Profile because Vassar does not provide fee-waiver codes or accept the paper ISFAA as an alternative.

CSS Profile

Required

All domestic and international students seeking Vassar scholarship aid submit the CSS Profile. U.S. citizens and permanent residents also file the FAFSA for federal aid, while international applicants do not file a FAFSA.

CSS school code

2956

Vassar's CSS Profile code is 2956. Use that code to send the form to Vassar College.

Published financial aid deadlines

Early Decision INovember 15
Early Decision IIJanuary 1
Regular DecisionFebruary 1
Fall transferMarch 15
Spring transferNovember 1
Returning studentMay 1

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 a student's parents are divorced, separated, or never married and living apart, Vassar requires each parent to complete a separate CSS Profile. Refusal to pay is not grounds for a waiver, although extreme no-contact or safety circumstances may qualify.

Documents and next steps

Use Vassar CSS code 2956, then submit requested tax and income records through IDOC after College Board sends access instructions. Track missing requirements in Vassar's applicant or financial aid portal, because Vassar says the IDOC dashboard is not the authoritative checklist.

Official sources for this answer

Common questions

Does Vassar require the CSS Profile?

Yes. Vassar requires the CSS Profile from domestic and international applicants seeking Vassar scholarship aid and uses CSS code 2956. International applicants must use the Profile because Vassar does not provide fee-waiver codes or accept the paper ISFAA as an alternative.

What is Vassar's CSS Profile code?

Vassar's CSS Profile code is 2956. Use that code to send the form to Vassar College.

When is Vassar's financial aid deadline?

Early Decision I: November 15; Early Decision II: January 1; Regular Decision: February 1; Fall transfer: March 15; Spring transfer: November 1; Returning student: May 1.

Is the FAFSA enough for Vassar?

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