What: Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
When: Opens October 1
Why: Determines eligibility for need-based financial aid
How: Apply at studentaid.gov; (North Park’s school code: 001735)
Who needs to file?
- U.S. students: Required for federal, state, and institutional aid.
- Returning students: Must refile each fall to maintain aid.
- International students: Submit additional financial details.
- Graduate students: Only file if seeking loans.
What you need
Before filing, gather:
- 2023 tax returns (for 2025–26 aid year)
- Records of child support received
- Balances of cash, savings, and checking accounts
- Net worth of investments, businesses, and farms
FSA ID: Students and parents need separate FSA IDs to electronically sign the FAFSA. A parent must sign if they claim you as a dependent. Social Security numbers (SSN) are required; if unavailable, follow these steps to obtain an FSA ID.
When to file
Submit your FAFSA as early as possible after October 1. Illinois students seeking a MAP Grant should file promptly to be considered for available funds.
After filing, review and update your FAFSA online if needed. North Park will receive updates if you list our school code (001735).
What happens next?
Understanding the Student Aid Index (SAI)
- The FAFSA generates a Student Aid Index (SAI), which determines aid eligibility but does not set final costs.
- You can review and update your FAFSA online if needed.
- North Park will receive updates if you list 001735.
Additional considerations
Undergraduate transfer students: Add North Park University to your FAFSA so we can generate an accurate financial aid package.
Graduate students: If you don’t need student loans (e.g., employer reimbursement covers tuition), you don’t need to file a FAFSA. However, you can file in later years if financial needs change.
FAFSA verification
About one-third of FAFSA applicants are selected for verification. If selected, you must submit tax forms and additional paperwork. North Park will notify you if this applies to you.
2025–26 MAP Grant Suspension Notice
Students who file a 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid or Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid on or after June 6 will not qualify for the MAP grant due to the suspension. MAP-eligible students who complete an application on or after June 6 will go on a waiting list for MAP funding. If ISAC determines it could offer additional grants, it will announce the awardees based on the order in which it received the applications.
North Park University and ISAC still encourage students to apply for the MAP grant to be on the waiting list should ISAC lift the suspension.
Students who meet the eligibility requirements for federal Pell Grants can still receive that funding for fall 2025.