State financial aid increases for College of Lake County students
More financial aid is available for College of Lake County (CLC) students than ever before through the state of Illinois and the federal government, and all students need to do is fill out their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
"Starting this fall, students may qualify for hundreds of dollars more in Illinois Monetary Assistance Program (MAP) funds," said Dean of Enrollment Erin Fowles. "For the first time, students in short-term certificates can qualify for MAP grants."
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and the General Assembly added $122 million in funding for MAP, bringing the total funding to an historic high of approximately $601 million. With this increase, the highest MAP grant now covers 55% of the average tuition and fees at CLC.
The new legislation extends eligibility to students at public institutions enrolled in three or more credit hours and in short-term certificate programs of less than one year which were previously not eligible. This could increase the number of students receiving MAP by an estimated 15,000 recipients in Illinois.
"The addition of short-credential eligibility for community colleges is transformational," said Illinois Community College Board Executive Director Brian Durham. "It will dramatically increase access to financial assistance for community college students who want to pursue short-term certificates in important fields including welding, transportation, distribution and logistics, and emergency medical technicians, among 2,000 other eligible programs. These additional dollars will help strengthen Illinois' workforce and empower students to find meaningful careers here in Illinois."
Funding is awarded by the state on a first-come, first-served basis, so students should apply as soon as possible.
If a student is ineligible to complete the FAFSA, they can complete the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid and be considered for MAP funds. Funds will be automatically awarded.
For more information about financial aid at CLC visit www.clcillinois.edu/financialaid.