• The FAFSA is free to complete and available at www.fafsa.gov

• This is the only site that should be used when filling out the federal financial aid form.

• FAFSA opens October 1 of each year and should be completed as early as possible after opening to maximize your potential for aide.

• Both the student and assisting parent will need an FSA ID.

  • It is best to start with the creation of FSA IDs prior to beginning the FAFSA application.

• A helpful Document for password storage and other information is available here.

Apprenticeships offer a great opportunity to receive paid on the job training in a skilled trade. Many apprenticeships are offered throughout Illinois and a few are listed below. For complete information, visit: https://www2.illinois.gov/ides/Pages/Apprenticeship.aspx

• Illinois Laborer's and Contractors

• Mid-Central Illinois Regional Council of Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee

• UA Local 137 Plumbers, Steamfitters and HVACR

• Operating Engineers Local 965

Community Colleges and Universities offer a variety of programs and degrees.

Community Colleges: Certificates of Completion and Achievement and Associate Degrees

• Lincoln Land Community College

• Lake Land College

• Kaskaskia College

• Lewis and Clark Community College

Universities: Bachelor's and Master's Degrees

• Illinois State University

• Western Illinois University

• Eastern Illinois University

• Southern Illinois University

• University of Illinois

• Blackburn and Beyond

Vocational Training

• Midwest Technical Institute