Does Yale Require the CSS Profile?
Yale uses the CSS Profile for institutional need-based aid and its CSS code is 3987. International applicants should wait for Yale's specific instructions because their required forms can differ.
CSS Profile
RequiredU.S. citizens and permanent residents seeking Yale need-based aid may have the CSS Profile on their applicant checklist. International applicants indicate their aid interest with admission and follow the individualized instructions Yale sends them.
CSS school code
3987Yale's CSS Profile code is 3987. Use that code to send the form to Yale University.
Published financial aid deadlines
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?
Yale asks for financial information from both parents even when they are divorced, separated, or unmarried. Families with extenuating circumstances may petition Yale to waive the noncustodial parent's information.
Documents and next steps
Domestic applicants use Yale CSS code 3987 and FAFSA code 001426. After the CSS Profile, Yale directs applicants to submit requested 2025 tax returns, W-2s, business records, and other 2027–28 checklist documents through IDOC.
Official sources for this answer
- Yale Undergraduate Financial Aid (checked August 2, 2026)
- Yale financial aid FAQs (checked August 2, 2026)
Common questions
Does Yale require the CSS Profile?
Yes. Yale uses the CSS Profile for institutional need-based aid and its CSS code is 3987. International applicants should wait for Yale's specific instructions because their required forms can differ.
What is Yale's CSS Profile code?
Yale's CSS Profile code is 3987. Use that code to send the form to Yale University.
When is Yale's financial aid deadline?
QuestBridge and domestic Early Action: November 1, 2026; International Early Action: December 1, 2026; Regular Decision: February 15, 2027; Transfer: April 1, 2027.
Is the FAFSA enough for Yale?
Not for Yale's institutional aid. Eligible students should file the FAFSA for federal aid, but Yale 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.