What is typically required when applying for financial aid for college?

When applying for financial aid for college, providing tax returns is a common requirement. This is because financial aid applications, particularly for federal financial assistance like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), assess a student's financial need based on the family's income. Tax returns serve as official documentation of income and can include important information such as wages, deductions, and the overall financial situation of the household. This information helps financial aid offices determine how much assistance a student may qualify for.

In the context of the other options, while credit scores, bank statements, and investment portfolios may provide additional financial context, they are not typically required for the standard financial aid application process. Credit scores are more relevant for loans rather than grants or need-based aid. Bank statements may be asked for in some specific circumstances, but they are not a standard requirement. Similarly, investment portfolios may provide insight into a family's financial situation but are usually not necessary for filling out financial aid forms like the FAFSA. Hence, tax returns stand out as a critical component of the application process for financial aid.