Why can't I add colleges on the CSS Profile?

There are several reasons why you might be experiencing difficulty adding colleges to your CSS Profile. Here's a breakdown of the common issues:

1. College Not Participating:

- Not all colleges and universities use the CSS Profile. Some institutions may rely solely on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or their own institutional aid applications. If a college isn't listed in the CSS Profile's search, it likely doesn't require it. You should check the college's financial aid website to confirm their application requirements.

2. Incorrect Search Terms:

- Ensure you are using the correct and complete name of the college when searching. Try different variations of the name, including abbreviations or acronyms, if the initial search doesn't yield results. For example, try searching for "University of California, Los Angeles" as well as "UCLA".

3. Application Deadlines:

- Some colleges may have specific deadlines for submitting the CSS Profile. If you are trying to add a college after their deadline, the system might not allow it. Check the college's financial aid website for their specific CSS Profile deadline.

4. Technical Issues:

- Sometimes, technical glitches on the College Board's website can prevent you from adding colleges. If you suspect a technical issue, try logging out and logging back in, or using a different browser. If the problem persists, contact the College Board's customer service for assistance.

5. Already Added:

- Double-check if you have already added the college to your list. It's possible you added it previously and forgot. Review your list of selected colleges to ensure you haven't already included the institution.

6. Profile Status:

- Make sure your CSS Profile is in an active status. If your profile is incomplete or has been submitted, you might not be able to add more colleges. You may need to make changes to your profile to add more colleges.

7. College-Specific Instructions:

- Some colleges may have specific instructions on how to add them to the CSS Profile. Always refer to the college's financial aid website for any specific requirements or instructions.

If you've checked all of these points and are still unable to add a college, it's best to contact the College Board's customer service or the financial aid office of the specific college for further assistance. They can provide specific guidance based on your situation.

Learn more about this