Fall Into FAFSA


What is FAFSA? 

To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, work-study, and loans, students need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Why does my student need to fill out a FAFSA application?  

The state of Illinois requires every high school senior to complete the application. We also want students to be eligible for money to assist with the cost of college.

My student is pursuing trade school after high school, do they still have to complete the form? 

Even trade schools offer financial aid opportunities that require FAFSA submission.  We want students to have as many opportunities to lower the cost of school as possible.

My family already has money set aside for college, why do I need to fill out a FAFSA application? 

The FAFSA information is used to decide if a student is eligible for federal aid. Additionally, some schools & states also use this data to award aid from their programs as well.  This application will already be processed if it is later decided that a student might need to use financial aid award funds. Filing the FAFSA does not mean the student will accept all the financial aid offered; it’s only used to determine what a student is eligible for. 

What is the fee for the application? 

There is no fee to file the form and the student will have the option of declining all aid offered financial aid if chosen to do so. 

What do I need to do first? 

Before beginning the application, students must create a Federal Student Aid ID.  To begin this process please visit the Federal Student Aid website and click, "Create an Account". The FSA ID consists of a username and a password.  You will need your social security number, date of birth, and a valid email address. You should NOT use your school email address. You will continue to use this account after you leave school, including during loan repayment if you receive student loans.  Parents/guardians also need an FSA ID.  If a parent/guardian has already created their FSA ID for themselves or another child, they will use that same FSA ID.

We look forward to seeing you and assisting you with your FAFSA application. Please create a Federal Student Aid ID before attending the informational session on October 27, 2022.