Helpful Resources

Here are some resources that you might find helpful as you explore ways to finance your education.

Applying for Financial Aid

FAFSA on the Web (North Park's School Code is 001735) allows you to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid online. The FAFSA must be filed every year in order to qualify for federal/state financial aid, including student loans.

Apply for a PIN to sign your FAFSA electronically. If you are a dependent student, your parent will need to apply for a PIN to sign the FAFSA as well.

Finding Outside Scholarships

FastWeb is a free scholarship search that includes more than 600,000 scholarships worth more than $1 billion. FastWeb also offers expert advice about financial aid, scholarships, selecting a major, choosing a career, and more.

Illinois residents can get information about state scholarship and grant programs, as well as college planning tools from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

The Department of Education provides comprehensive financial aid information in their student portal.

The SmartStudent Guide to Financial Aid is an independent comprehensive site containing financial aid information and planning tools.

Free Scholarship Search lists nearly 60 sites that provide scholarships to students.

The Health Resources and Services Administration, under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, offers financial aid to Nursing students.

Loan Information

The National Student Loan Database System can provide you with your student loan borrowing history, as well as lender contact information. You will need your FAFSA PIN to access your records.

In addition to federal student/parent loans, you have the option to borrow a private (non-governmental loan).  Student Lending Analytics provides valuable information about private loans.

Government Resources

Most male students between the ages of 18-25 must register with the Selective Service to receive federal aid.

The Department of Veterans Affairs can provide you with information about qualifying for and receiving veteran's benefits.

Another way to save money for college is tax deductions and tax credits. Deductions reduce taxable income and credits reduce tax obligations, allowing you to keep more of your money to pay for college. Check out this helpful overview, and Publication 970 from the IRS for more information.