Do I need both the FAFSA and CSS Profile for Stony Brook University financial aid?

For Stony Brook University, you generally need the FAFSA, not the CSS Profile, to be considered for financial aid. Stony Brook uses the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal aid, New York State aid, and many university-administered need-based awards. The CSS Profile is not a standard required form for undergraduate financial aid at Stony Brook.

If you are a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, the key step is submitting the FAFSA and making sure Stony Brook receives it. If you are a New York resident, you may also need to complete the NYS TAP application separately to be considered for New York State grants.

For undocumented students or students who are not eligible to file the FAFSA, the process can be different, and New York residents may need the NYS DREAM Act application instead of the FAFSA for state aid. But for the usual undergraduate aid process at Stony Brook, FAFSA is the main required form, and CSS Profile is not.

To avoid delays, make sure your FAFSA is submitted accurately, list Stony Brook on it, and check your Stony Brook applicant portal for any extra document requests such as verification forms, tax records, or citizenship documentation.