Financial Aid
Find out how to apply for aid, what you may qualify for, and how to plan for costs.
Estimate Your Aid Start Your FAFSA
Estimate Your Financial Aid
Find out what aid you may receive and what college could cost you after that aid is applied.
Net Price CalculatorGraduate with Less Debt
Illinois students graduate with less student loan debt on average than the national and state average.
| Borrower | Average Debt Per Borrower |
|---|---|
| National Graduates | $29,096 |
| State of Illinois Graduates | $28,552 |
| Our Graduates | $20,305 |
Free Tuition.
Full Potential.
That’s Illinois Commitment.
A program that covers the cost of tuition and campus fees for up to four years.
You may qualify if you are an Illinois resident and your family income is $75,000 or less.
Check Your Eligibility
Start Your Financial Aid Application
Illinois uses the FAFSA to decide how much aid you can get.
Apply even if you think you will not qualify.
Start Your FAFSAWhat is the FAFSA?
Illinois uses the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to decide if you qualify for financial aid. If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you should apply.
Apply even if you don’t think you qualify for need‑based aid. The FAFSA can open doors to scholarships, student jobs, and federal loans. Not to mention, federal loans usually have lower interest rates and better protections than private loans.
When is the FAFSA due?
You can submit the FAFSA starting your senior year of high school. You’ll need to submit the FAFSA every year you’re in college, as your financial situation may change.
Priority Deadline: March 15
Financial aid funds are limited, so apply early to give yourself the best chance to receive aid.
FAFSA DeadlinesWhat if I’m not eligible for the FAFSA?
Illinois residents who are ineligible for the FAFSA may complete the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid. This application can make you eligible for Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants.
Need-based financial aid is not available to international undergraduates at Illinois, meaning you must have sufficient funds for your entire period of study. However, limited scholarships and loans are available through International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS).
Just because you’re ineligible for federal aid, doesn’t mean you don’t have options. Take time to discover other forms of aid you qualify for.
How do I get help with the FAFSA?
There are many helpful resources available to guide you through the FAFSA process.
Here are a few:
Explore Aid Types & Timelines
After you apply and are admitted, we’ll review your FAFSA and send your financial aid offer. You can choose which aid to accept.
Scholarships & Grants (67%)
Scholarships & Grants account for 67% of provided aid.
Do not need to be repaid.
Awards are based on:
- Academics achievement
- Talent
- Leadership
- Geographical location
- Field of study
- Financial need
Loans (28%)
Loans account for 28% of provided aid.
Must be repaid, usually with interest, after you leave school.
Student Employment (5%)
Student Employment accounts for 5% of provided aid. It includes:
- Federal Work‑Study
- University hourly jobs
- Off‑campus employment
Support for International Students
Illinois does not provide need-based financial aid for international undergraduate students.
Limited scholarship and loan options may be available through International Student and Scholar Services.
International Assistance