FAFSA

FAFSA INFORMATION

All seniors should complete the FAFSA, the first step in the financial aid process for post-secondary institutions. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now required to earn an Illinois high school diploma.  If a student decides not to complete the FAFSA, the student must complete the Nonparticipation form in order to meet the graduation requirement.  The links to complete the FAFSA & to the Nonparticipation form are located below.  The FAFSA is required for students to even receive scholarships. Most colleges and universities require the FAFSA.

The deadline to complete the FAFSA or fill out the Nonparticipation Form is December 1, 2025

FAFSA NONPARTICIPATION FORM

Starting in the 2020-21 school year, to receive a diploma from a public high school a student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, if applicable the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid. Local school district staff must provide support and assistance to students and parents/guardians in the application process. Additional assistance with completing an application is available from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission. Alternatively, a parent/guardian must file a waiver if they choose to opt a child out of the graduation requirement by completing this Nonparticipation Form; students who are at least 18 years of ago or legally emancipated my complete the form themselves. Visit the Illinois Student Assistance Commission if you wish to opt yourself or your student out of the Financial Aid Application graduation requirement.