CSS Profile
®
Waiver Request for the Noncustodial Parent
Financial aid eligibility is based on demonstrated financial need, not on a parent’s willingness to pay for education.
However, some institutions recognize that every family is different and want to be sure to understand your family’s
circumstances as they assess your eligibility for aid.
These institutions may require your noncustodial parent to complete a CSS Profile application. If you have no contact
with this parent, you may request institutions to waive this requirement. Prior to submitting this form, confirm
whether each institution you are applying to requires a noncustodial parent to complete the CSS Profile
application and accepts this waiver.
To
complete this form, follow these steps:
Complete and sign the form.
Submit the signed copy, with all required documentation, to each institution that accepts this waiver.
Keep a copy for your records.
Thing
s to remember:
• This form is a way to start a conversation with your institutions. Understand other institutions who require a CSS
Profile application from noncustodial parents may require their own waiver form and may not accept this version.
It’s important to review each institution’s website and instructions.
• Submission of this request does not guarantee that a waiver will be approved.
• Each institution will make its own decision and communicate that decision to you and reserves the right to request
additional information regarding your waiver request.
Types
of waiver requests that may be considered:
• No contact or support ever received from your noncustodial parent.
• Legal ord
ers that limit the noncustodial parent's contact with you.
• Abuse
situations involving you and the noncustodial parent.
Exam
ples of documentation that may be required:
• Cou
rt documents or legal orders, if applicable.
• Thir
d-party documentation – preferably a written statement or letter from a counselor, a social worker, a teacher, or
clergy who has first-hand knowledge about and can certify your situation.
Statements from family members or attorneys may or may not be accepted.
Types
of waiver requests that are usually not considered:
• A parent r
efuses to complete the CSS Profile.
• Divorce decree states that a parent is not responsible for the student's educational expenses. In these cases, we
encourage you to reach out directly to each institution's financial aid office for assistance.
Please do not submit this page