Counseling » Financial Aid Information

Financial Aid Information

General Information
 
Most colleges offer some form of financial aid. Financial aid comes from many different sources but you must apply in order to get it. The financial aid application opens October 1st and must be filled out during your senior year. For more information on financial aid, click here.
 
Outside of financial aid, students can also apply for various scholarships for more financial support. You can find more information on this under the "Scholarships" tab.
 
 
HOW TO APPLY
 
FAFSA Website fafsa.gov
 
The website will direct you where to go. If you are a new applicant, click "Start Here." If you are a returning applicant, click "Log In." For any additional information on FAFSA, click here.
 
FAFSA also has a new tool called FAFSA4caster which will provide you with a free early estimate on your eligibility for federal student aid. Click here to be redirected to the website which provides more information on it.
 
INFORMATION YOU MAY NEED TO COMPLETE FAFSA
 
  • Social Security Number
  • Alien Registration Number (only if the student is not a US Citizen)
  • Federal tax returns, W-2's, and other income-related records
  • Banking statements and any records of investments (if applicable)
  • An FSA ID to sign the FAFSA form electronically (you can create this as you fill out the application or beforehand here)
  • List of colleges the student is interested in attending
FOR ADDITIONAL HELP
 
There will be various workshops throughout the semester to help students complete the application.
Please check our Calendar or News section for updates. 
 
Meet a Financial Aid Expert

Students and their families can get one-on-one assistance or attend a group workshop with a financial aid expert. 

  • Contact a School Counselor. Students and families can e-mail their school counselor or postsecondary coach to arrange an online meeting to get assistance with completion of a financial aid application. Also, check the counselor corner on the high school’s website.
  • Contact an Expert from the IL Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Search studentportal.isac.org/ISACorps to find an ISAC expert in your zip code. Phone numbers and e-mails are included.
Call or Text a Financial Aid Expert

Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) is the State’s financial aid agency. Students and families can call, text, or e-mail an ISAC expert with your college planning and financial aid questions:

  • ISAC Call Center. E-mail isac.studentservices@illinois.gov or call 800.899.ISAC (4722).
  • ISAC College Q&A. Text ISAC experts at isac.org/collegeqa, a free text messaging service or  text your first and last name to the phone number below which is closest to your area: (773) 453-9520, (630) 216-4910, (847) 243-6470, (708) 252-3890, Servicio en español: (773) 823-0570.