10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Illinois

Colleges, universities, and community colleges use the U.S. Department of Education's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to decide the financial aid amounts students can receive while enrolled in a degree or certificate program. After filling out the FAFSA form, students might qualify for:

• grants
• scholarships
• student loans
• federal work-study program funds

Students attending Illinois colleges on campus qualify for federal financial aid. But did you know some Illinois online schools also qualify? The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Lewis University, and Illinois State University are a handful of online colleges that accept FAFSA. Below, we'll explore 10 great Illinois schools for online students seeking financial assistance.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Illinois

Financial aid reduces the cost of online college, which can help Illinois residents complete their degree programs and reach their career goals. If you're ready to begin your studies, explore the following online programs that accept FAFSA.

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers three online undergraduate degrees and dozens of online graduate degrees. Online programs include:

• early childhood professional education
• social work
• accounting
• animal science
• management
• computer science
• journalism

The university offers financial aid to online degree-seeking students. However, it's not available for online non-credit and self-paced courses.

2. University of Illinois - Chicago

University of Illinois - Chicago students can choose from several undergraduate and graduate programs delivering fully online coursework. Programs include:

• business administration
• health information management
• comparative effectiveness research
• nursing
• public administration
• engineering

All programs accept financial aid to help students reduce tuition costs. Online learners must submit the FAFSA form to qualify.

3. University of Illinois Springfield

The University of Illinois Springfield offers dozens of online bachelor's and master's degree programs. Here are some to consider:

• criminal justice
• English
• human services
• political science
• cybersecurity

The University of Illinois Springfield offers the same affordable e-tuition for in-state and out-of-state college students. Online education at the university qualifies for financial aid.

4. Aurora University

Aurora University students can choose from over a dozen online master's programs and bachelor's degrees. All have regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Areas of study include:

• communication
• psychology
• healthcare administration
• educational leadership
• digital marketing and design

An online doctoral degree in education is also available. The university notes that 98% of its attendees receive financial aid. Its online programs accept FAFSA.

5. Illinois College

At Illinois College, prospective students can choose from multiple online learning opportunities. Graduate students can pursue a Master of Science in nursing (MSN). Online bachelor's degrees are available in the following areas:

• accounting
• behavioral health
• healthcare management
• marketing
• management

Illinois College attendees can enjoy tuition rates that increase at a slower pace annually than other private colleges and universities. Financial aid eligibility is extended to students enrolled in degree-granting online programs.

6. Illinois State University

Illinois State University offers numerous online and distance learning opportunities. Many online courses are taught in an asynchronous format enabling students to learn at their own pace. Online programs include:

• special education
• nursing
• health informatics and management
• teaching and learning
• reading and literacy

All students attending Illinois State University can apply for financial aid. Filling out the FAFSA form could create eligibility for grants, loans, employment, and more.

7. Governors State University

GovState Online at Governors State University in University Park offers undergraduate and graduate online degrees. Program offerings include:

• business and applied sciences
• nursing
• business administration
• interdisciplinary leadership
• addiction studies

Governors State University creates financial award packages that align with students' financial needs. Eligibility starts with filling out the FAFSA form.

8. Lewis University

Lewis University offers enrollment options for numerous online degree programs. Students can choose from bachelor's and master's degrees in areas of study like:

• aviation and transportation
• criminal justice
• business analytics
• data science
• organizational leadership

Lewis University has earned a high ranking as a best-value college in the Midwest. First-year students get an average of $18,000 in scholarships and grants.

9. DePaul University

DePaul University is home to dozens of online programs. Bachelor's and master's degrees are available in subjects like:

• nonprofit management
• public policy
• health informatics
• business information technology
• accountancy

DePaul students are automatically considered for most types of financial aid after submitting the FAFSA form. Academic level, citizenship status, and financial need can impact the types and amount of help awarded.

10. Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University offers online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Some programs include:

• dental hygiene
• behavior analysis and therapy
• paralegal studies
• biomedical engineering
• radiologic sciences
• aviation management

All Southern Illinois University online students pay in-state per-credit-hour rates. Online learners can qualify for federal financial aid by filling out the FAFSA form.

Applying for FAFSA in Illinois

Public high school seniors in Illinois must fill out the FAFSA form as a graduation requirement. This step ensures students have access to all possible financial resources, including the Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant.

Eligibility

Many students are eligible for FAFSA. Eligibility requirements include the following:

• Demonstrate financial need.
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
• Have a valid Social Security number.
• Be enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress at an eligible school of higher education.

Some undocumented students and transgender students may not be eligible for federal financial aid. Ineligible students are encouraged to fill out the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid to apply for state financial aid.

Steps To Apply

Applying for federal student aid requires filling out the FAFSA form. Here are the steps to apply:

• Create a StudentAid.gov account.
• Gather parents' Social Security Numbers, tax returns, net worth, and other relevant financial documents.
• Start a new form at FAFSA.gov.
• Choose schools to receive your information (add up to 20 schools online).
• Determine dependency status.
• Report parents' and spouse's information.
• Provide financial information.
• Sign and submit the FAFSA form.

Students who need help filling out their FAFSA form can chat with Aidan the virtual assistant. They can also contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center or their school's financial aid office. Now that you know more about applying for FAFSA, let's look at some FAQs about federal aid.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Illinois

Illinois students can access several state-based programs designed to make earning a degree online more affordable. These options can be used in addition to FAFSA to help reduce tuition and related expenses.

Monetary Award Program

The Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) provides need-based grants to eligible Illinois residents pursuing undergraduate degrees, including those enrolled online. To qualify, you'll need to submit your FAFSA early, as MAP funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Online students attending approved Illinois colleges and universities can use MAP grants to cover tuition and mandatory fees. This program offers meaningful financial support to help keep education accessible for students across the state.

Illinois Veteran Grant

The Illinois Veteran Grant (IVG) offers full tuition and mandatory fee coverage for qualified Illinois veterans attending public colleges and universities. You can apply for IVG benefits through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) after completing your FAFSA.

This program applies to both traditional and online programs at participating state institutions. It's an excellent option for veterans seeking to earn a degree or certification while managing work and family responsibilities.

AIM HIGH Grant Program

The AIM HIGH Grant Program provides merit-based funding to Illinois residents who demonstrate strong academic performance and financial need. To qualify, students must complete the FAFSA and meet GPA and enrollment requirements set by their chosen institution.

Online learners may receive aid directly from their university through this state-supported program. AIM HIGH helps reduce tuition costs for students striving for academic success in Illinois-based online programs.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Illinois

A large number of students receive federal aid annually. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), nearly three out of four undergraduates receive financial aid. Are you interested in securing federal aid in Illinois? Review the following frequently asked questions about FAFSA for college in Illinois.

How Can I Tell if an Online College Accepts FAFSA?

Many schools that accept FAFSA for in-person college students extend federal student aid options to their online learners. Contact your chosen online college's financial aid office to be sure they accept FAFSA.

What Happens After I Submit My FAFSA for Illinois Colleges?

After submitting your FAFSA for Illinois Colleges, you'll see a confirmation page showing your data release number, completion date, and next steps. You'll also see an estimated Student Index, Federal Pell Grant eligibility, and details about other student aid. Your selected colleges will share details about your specific financial aid packages.

Can I Apply for Scholarships in Illinois Through the FAFSA?

Yes, you can apply for scholarships in Illinois through FAFSA. While some scholarships require separate applications, filling out the FAFSA form can help you automatically apply for some institution-based private scholarships in Illinois.

What if I Made a Mistake on My FAFSA? How Can I Correct It?

You can often make corrections through your online account if you completed your FAFSA form online. Depending on the mistake you want to correct, you might select 'Make a Correction' in your account or 'My Activity.' Some of the adjustments you can make are:

• adding or deleting a school
• correcting a social security number
• changing financial details

Find an Affordable Online College in Illinois

Illinois offers a range of state and federal financial aid programs that can make online college more affordable. Explore accredited online degrees on Learn.org and connect with schools to learn more about grants, scholarships, and other funding opportunities.