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The Process

The process of applying for financial aid at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is simple.  The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required to apply for financial aid using our school code of 001775.  All students are encouraged to apply for financial assistance as soon after January 1 as possible, and before the priority filing date of March 15. In addition, if you plan to enroll in summer school an OSFA summer financial aid application is also required. 

After you file a FAFSA, the information is forwarded to OSFA by the federal government. OSFA processes the information and sends award letters to students starting in March indicating the amount of financial assistance applicants will receive.

Generally, financial aid eligibility is based on the previous year’s income information.  If your financial situation has changed substantially during the year or since completing the FAFSA, you can submit a Special Circumstances form for reconsideration of your financial need. OSFA may be able to re-assess your family’s eligibility in the event of a loss of job or income, divorce, death in the family, etc.  Please note that OSFA will only re-evaluate your financial aid eligibility under such serious circumstances; the University of Illinois does not negotiate financial aid or try to match offers from other colleges.

Students who are applying for:

Fall 2012, Spring 2013 or Summer 2013 must complete a 2012-2013 FAFSA

  • The form may be completed beginning January 1, 2012.  It must be submitted prior to your last date of attendance or June 30, 2013 whichever is earlier. 
  • Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure they are eligible for the maximum amount of financial aid.  Preferential filing date is March 15, 2012.
  • In addition to the FAFSA, students who are planning to attend Summer 2013 must also complete an OSFA summer financial aid application which will be available April 8, 2013.

Fall 2013, Spring 2014 or Summer 2014 must complete a 2013-2014 FAFSA

  • The form may be completed beginning January 1, 2013.  It must be submitted prior to your last date of attendance or June 30, 2014 whichever is earlier. 
  • Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure they are eligible for the maximum amount of financial aid.  Preferential filing date is March 15, 2013.
  • In addition to the FAFSA, students who are planning to attend Summer 2014 must also complete an OSFA summer financial aid application which will be available in mid-April, 2014.