Final answer:
Students can submit the FAFSA profile as early as October 1 of the year before the academic year they are applying for.
Step-by-step explanation:
The earliest a student can complete the profile, which the context suggests likely refers to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), is October 1. The U.S. Department of Education allows students to submit the FAFSA for the next academic year starting on October 1 of the prior year. By submitting early, students have a better chance of receiving more financial aid, as some aid is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.