SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Did you know that 85% of all first-year college students in 2023 received some sort of financial aid to help them with the high costs of attending college? You don't have to (and shouldn't) pay for college all by yourself. There are many ways students can get money to help pay for college in the form of financial aid.

Click here for our List of Local Scholarships (2023-24)

(this list will be updated in January 2025)

Types of Financial Aid

Scholarships (academic, merit, athletic, talent) - money based on accomplishments that is usually paid directly to the college. These funds are not paid back. Examples include an institution's Presidential Scholarship, Dean's List Academic Scholarship, Music Talent Scholarship or Athletic Scholarship.

Grants (state, federal or school-based) - money based on need that is not paid back. Examples include the Federal Pell Grant and Illinois MAP Grant.

Loans (Student subsidized loan, Student unsubsidized loan, Parent PLUS loan) - money offered by the US Department of Education (or private loan servicer) based on qualifying need. Student and Parent loans must be repaid.

Work-Study - federal work program through which undergraduates and graduate students at participating schools earn money to help pay for school.

Financial Aid Steps

  1. Submit your college applications.

  2. Complete & Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

  3. Search for scholarships (safe & reputable links on this page).

  4. Review "Award Letters" and financial aid information when received by colleges.

  5. Accept an offer & make a decision on what school to attend.

The Financial Aid Process explained (video presentation by ISAC Rep. Alissa Williams)

Helpful Reminders & Tips

  1. Never pay for a scholarship application!

  2. The FAFSA is FREE to complete. Do not complete it on sites requiring payment.

  3. When the FAFSA becomes available (October 2024), complete it early and don't wait.

  4. You can list up to 20 colleges of your choice on your FAFSA. You should list all schools you are potentially interested in attending because these colleges will receive your FAFSA results to determine how much financial aid you qualify for.

  5. Beware of scams about scholarships and "free" money! If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Speak to your counselor if you have questions or any doubts.

Upcoming Events & Information

  • FAFSA Workshop: Tuesday, December 10 at 6:00-7:15 PM for both students and parents. An ISAC (Illinois Student Assistance Commission) rep can help students and parents complete the FAFSA in person while also answering your questions.