FAFSA vs CSS Profile: what's the real difference?

Financial AidFAFSACSS Profilefinancial aidcollege funding

I've been trying to figure out the differences between FAFSA and the CSS Profile, but I feel so lost! Can anyone break down what makes them different? I know FAFSA is the basic federal aid form, but what extra details does the CSS Profile require?

Also, do colleges mainly use the CSS for their own aid, or can it impact merit scholarships too? Any insights would be super helpful!

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