Anyone else think it's RIDICULOUS they make us enter schools one at a time when they KNOW most students apply to multiple colleges? Just another way they make this process needlessly difficult. My son applied to 22 schools and we had to sit there clicking save 22 times. In 2025!!

Thank you all for the helpful responses! I'm glad to know we weren't the only ones with this issue. I've created a spreadsheet with all my daughter's school codes now in case we need to make changes later. I really appreciate all the tips - especially about the 20 school limit and how to reach the FSA if we run into problems!

Oh no, I had no idea! How do I find out which schools require CSS Profile?

You can check each school's financial aid website - they'll list all required forms. Generally, it's private colleges and universities that require the CSS Profile in addition to FAFSA. Public universities usually just need FAFSA. The CSS Profile has a fee, but fee waivers are available for eligible students.

For those waiting on aid packages, you can request an extension from your schools if you haven't received all your financial aid information by the May 1 decision deadline. Most institutions are aware of the FAFSA delays this year and are being more flexible than usual. Just be sure to request the extension in writing (email is fine) to your admissions office, explaining that you're still waiting on complete financial aid information to make your decision.

To clarify about the verification requests some of you mentioned - verification selections are not related to the email notification issues. About 30% of all FAFSA filers get selected for verification each year, which requires submitting additional documentation to confirm your reported information. If you've been selected, you'll need to complete those requirements before your aid can be finalized. Check both your studentaid.gov account and your individual school portals to see if you've been selected and what documents you need to submit.

For those struggling with the signature glitch, here's the technical explanation: The new FAFSA system has enhanced security protocols that sometimes conflict with browser cache data or certain browser security settings. Troubleshooting steps in order of effectiveness: 1. Clear browser cache and cookies 2. Try a different browser (Firefox and Edge seem most compatible) 3. Try a mobile device (uses different verification protocols) 4. Wait 24 hours for system reset (if it's a server-side issue) 5. Create a new email address and re-register your FSA ID (extreme cases) Regarding the SAI concerns - the shift from EFC to SAI was intended to better reflect actual ability to pay, but the implementation has been rocky. The key thing to understand is that while the numbers have changed, how schools use them is also adjusting. Many institutions are recalibrating their institutional aid formulas to account for the general increase in SAI figures.

@profile5 Did you end up resolving the issues? I'm curious if the cache clearing worked for the signature problem. And definitely pursue that appeal for the medical expenses - my sister got her SAI reduced by almost $3K last year for similar reasons.

UPDATE: We got it figured out! My daughter created her FSA ID and started a new application. I did lose all my previously entered information, but now we're on the right track. For anyone else who makes this mistake - you definitely need to have the STUDENT start the application first! Thank you all for your help.

Glad you figured it out! Honestly they should rename the parent section to "contributor section" or something so it's more obvious. My kid was also confused cause he thought I could just do the whole thing for him lol