Overview of the Financial Aid Process (FAFSA or alternative app)

**Class of 2025 families:  FAFSA is a Graduation requirement**

The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid open in early December 2024.  Completion of one of these forms is a graduation requirement. For full consideration of aid, families should complete the form within 6-8  weeks of the opening date.  Both forms will require access to your 2023 taxes.  

Students can opt out of this requirement by completing an electronic waiver form - FAFSA Non-Participation Instructions.
 

FAFSA or Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid

Get started.

The links below provide more information and the steps to help you get started. Get your FSA ID (student and parent will need one), gather your documents and get started completing the appropriate application.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid