Grants are gifts from federal, state, and/or college funds based on financial need. Everything starts with filing the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA).

To file your FAFSA, please visit studentaid.gov.

Illinois Monetary Award

Annual Value: up to $7,200

Eligibility: Awarded to Illinois residents only, based on need and availability of funds. In order to be eligible for the maximum award, a student must be enrolled for 15 credit hours. The award will be adjusted if the student drops below 15 credit hours.

Duration: Apply yearly by filing your FAFSA between October 1 and December 21.

Federal Pell Grant

Annual Value: up to $6,895

Eligibility: Awarded to undergraduate students who exhibit financial need as determined by the federal government. The maximum grant is $6,895 per academic year, but the amount issued is contingent upon continued financial need.

Duration: Apply yearly by filing your FAFSA after October 1st.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant

Annual Value: up to $500

Eligibility: Undergraduate students who exhibit extremely high financial need may qualify.

Duration: Apply yearly by filing your FAFSA after October 1st.