Financial aid resources

FAFSA completion now mandatory for all seniors to graduate

Public Act 101-180 (effective 6/01/20) requires that, beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, public high school students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, as eligible, the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid, as a prerequisite to receiving a high school diploma. A waiver provision basically allows a parent, guardian, or the student – if 18 or emancipated – to opt out for any reason.

Making FAFSA completion part of an expectation for high school graduation can increase the number of students who are aware of the resources available to help them afford education or training after high school. This information can also help some students decide to attempt college when they might not otherwise have done so, and it may help some students limit student loan debt and take a fuller course load to more quickly complete a degree or credential.

Due to updates made by the Dept of Ed, the 2024-2025 FAFSA application will open sometime in December.  We encourage students to complete their application as soon as possible to ensure they will receive any funds for which they may be eligible, as grants are given on a first-come, first-served basis.

Think you are ready to start your application?  Check to make sure you have everything you need and create your FSA ID:

The Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act

The RISE Act allows eligible undocumented students and transgender students who are disqualified from federal financial aid to apply for all forms of state financial aid. The Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid provides a pathway for these qualified students to apply for Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, the state's largest need-based grant program for low-income college students. 

Financial Aid Resources

Federal Student Aid: U.S. Dept of Education 

Federal Student Aid Youtube channel

Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC):