Apply for financial aid at Occidental by following our three-step process.
Applying for financial aid is a key part of the college application process. Make sure you know what to submit and when. All colleges have different financial aid deadlines; write down Oxy's and apply on time to get the maximum aid you are eligible to receive. Please note, we cannot guarantee to meet the full demonstrated need of late applicants.
Step 1: Complete the 24-25 CSS Profile
The CSS Profile application allows us to review your eligibility for Oxy need-based grants, loans, and work study. Remember to list Occidental College, CSS code #4581.
The deadline for this application varies depending on your application status:
- Early Decision I by November 15
- Early Decision II by January 10
- Regular Decision by January 10
In addition, if you have a noncustodial parent, they must also complete their own CSS Profile application. Occidental requires a CSS Profile for both the custodial parent and the noncustodial parent.
Step 2: Complete the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The FAFSA application allows us to review your eligibility for federal and state financial aid. Remember to list Occidental College, federal school code #001249.
The deadline for this application varies depending on your application status:
- Early Decision I by January 10*
- Early Decision II by January 10*
- Regular Decision by January 10*
*We recognize that there are significant challenges in accessing the FAFSA this year. We will accept FAFSA submissions through January 20 without penalty. The CSS Profile and tax documents submitted through IDOC should, however, still be submitted by the deadlines listed above.
Step 3: Submit 2022 federal tax returns & W-2 forms
Occidental College is a member of the Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC). Families must submit copies of their completed federal tax returns (with all schedules and statements) and W-2s via IDOC. Students can log into IDOC to upload required documents only after they submit the CSS Profile.
For CA Residents Only
Submit Cal Grant GPA Verification by March 2
All California residents are required to apply for a Cal Grant. You must file the FAFSA and submit the GPA Verification form to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) by March 2 in order to be considered for a Cal Grant. Some high schools electronically submit the GPA Verification form on behalf of their students. Check with your high school counselor for more information.