Financial Aid
Although universities are not required to provide financial aid to students in distance education programs, at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) administers financial aid programs to eligible applicants.
Application deadlines may affect the kinds of aid you will be able to receive. Because so many variables are involved, it is necessary to go through the entire application process in order to know if you qualify for financial aid. These programs include federal, state, and institutional aid for full- and part-time students who have been fully admitted to this campus and who are currently enrolled. The following are OSFA requirements:
- You must be a U.S. Citizen or an Eligible Non-citizen.
- Male students, ages 18–25, must be registered for Selective Service.
- You must have a High School Diploma or GED (high school equivalency) certificate.
- You must be working towards a degree or certificate.
- You may not be in default on any federal educational loans or owe a refund on a federal grant.
- You must be making Satisfactory Academic Progress.
- You must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Types of Financial Aid
Financial aid is available to eligible degree-seeking students on this campus; however, the types and amounts of aid and the eligibility criteria vary greatly.
Important Deadline Information
Review the deadlines and priority dates from the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Eligibility for Financial Aid
The Office of Student Financial Aid uses a formula for determining student eligibility for need-based financial aid that includes three components: estimated educational expenses, estimated family contribution, and financial need.
Conditions and Limitations of Financial Aid
In order to receive federal financial aid, you must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree. State and institutional financial aid funds are also subject to this requirement.
Application for Financial Aid
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Notification of Award
Once your financial aid application and all requested information has been received and processed, you will be notified via e-mail that you have an Award Letter. The Award Letter will reflect all federal, state and University offers of aid, including scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment. For details, please consult the information from the OSFA Notification of Awards.
Waivers, Grants, and Other Benefits
To determine your eligibility for waivers, grants, or benefits, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Scholarships
For access to the scholarship database and other important scholarship information, please consult the Scholarships page of the Office of Student Financial Aid.
1098-T Tax Credit Information
Form 1098-T is utilized as a guide in the preparation of your taxes. Its purpose is to assist you in determining whether you are eligible for an education tax credit. For more information and the 1098-T form, please consult the University's 1098-T-FAQs.