When to Apply

The 2025-26 FAFSA is now available to all students and contributors. Students (and any contributors, if applicable) who successfully submitted the 2025-26 FAFSA form during the fall 2024 beta testing period do not need to resubmit it. ISAC will share information about the release of the 2025-26 Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid as it becomes available.

The priority consideration dates for the Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) are based on the date the FAFSA is received by the federal processor. In addition to the application receipt date, certain data elements from the FAFSA are used in determining MAP eligibility. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) uses the FAFSA receipt date to determine whether a student should receive priority consideration for the MAP grant. Awards are made until funds are depleted. Colleges are reminded to encourage students to submit the 2025-26 FAFSA (or the Alternative Application, if applicable) as soon as possible.

Refer to the Completing a 2025-26 FAFSA page for details about filing an application.