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Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The FAFSA is the first step in the financial aid process. It is used to apply for federal student financial aid such as grants, loans and work study. In addition, postsecondary schools use information from the FAFSA to award non-federal financial aid. The application is available free of charge.
Other State-Sponsored Programs
In addition to federal and state programs, many agencies, associations and organizations (e.g., corporations, civic groups, and religious groups) provide dollars to college students. There are different eligibility requirements, award amounts, application forms and application deadlines for each type of financial aid, so students should research these carefully. The State of Illinois also sponsors/administers financial aid programs through other state departments and agencies.
Scholarship Search Services
Several scholarship search services are available to assist students in obtaining information about possible sources of financial aid. In addition, public and college libraries have a number of indexes and publications that list private scholarship, fellowship and grant programs, as well as provide descriptions and application information.
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