International citizens: If you’re a non-U.S. citizen applying for need-based financial aid, you’ll follow a slightly different process and must submit the International Student Financial Form.
How to Apply for Aid: Step-by-Step Checklist
Step 1: Indicate your intent on your admission application
When filling out the or the , be sure to select “yes” when asked if you plan to apply for financial aid. This lets us know to expect your materials.
Step 2: Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The FAFSA allows us to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial aid. Be sure to list Occidental’s school code: 001249. You and your custodial parent must each create an FSA ID to log in, sign, and submit the FAFSA electronically.
Occidental FAFSA Code: 001249
Step 3: Complete your CSS Profile
The CSS Profile helps us determine your eligibility for need-based aid at Occidental, including grants, loans, and work-study. Be sure to list Occidental College’s code: 4581. If your parents are divorced or separated, your noncustodial parent will also need to submit a separate CSS Profile. NOTE: There is a submission fee for the CSS Profile, but fee waivers are automatically assessed by the College Board based on your financial information.
Occidental CSS Code: 4581
Step 4: Submit federal tax returns and W-2 forms
Occidental partners with the College Board’s Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC) to collect family financial documents. After you submit your CSS Profile, you’ll receive access to IDOC, where you must upload:
- Signed federal tax returns (including all schedules and statements)
- W-2 forms for you and your parents (if applicable)
These documents help us verify the financial information you’ve provided and determine your eligibility for aid.
California residents only: Submit Cal Grant GPA Verification
If you're a California resident, you're 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 3 in order to be considered for a Cal Grant. Some schools electronically submit the GPA Verification form on behalf of their students. Check with your counselor for more information.
Step 5: Check your status and review your financial aid offer
Once you’ve submitted all required materials, you can track your financial aid checklist in your applicant portal to make sure everything has been received and processed. Please note that it may take time for materials to be marked as received. Your financial aid offer—including any grants, loans, and work-study—will be available in your portal after you receive your admission decision.