How soon do I need to file the FAFSA, and should I still apply if I think my family makes too much money?

There is no harm in applying even if you think your family makes too much money. It may be worthwhile to complete the FAFSA to determine what federal, state, and institutional aid you qualify for. Visit FAFSA Myths to see financial aid myths de-bunked.

Apply Today! One application is used to apply for various scholarships- including Global Studies, Music, Visual Arts, Theatre and more! All student types are eligible to apply including international, online and graduate students. The deadline is February 15, 2023. Good luck!

Almost $700,000 was awarded to more than 290 UIS students for the 2022-2023 academic year!

The purpose of this program is to increase the recruitment of Mexican and Mexican-American students within the University of Illinois System while building a large-scale presence with Mexican academic, research, and private sector institutions.

Understanding your Financial Aid Offer 

We all know the cost of college and the aid you receive is a huge part of choosing where to go to college. That’s why we focus on making the process as transparent as possible so you fully understand what’s available to you, and you can make informed decisions that best fit your needs and goals. 

Future college students can now apply to all Illinois’ public universities with just one application.

A simple check of a box will send applications to 900 schools throughout the state.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) joined the Common App in September before Governor Pritzker’s announced all public universities in Illinois would join the program.

Making the switch has already increased the number of freshmen applications the school has received, and more are expected.

3 Tips for Completing the FAFSA^®

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA^®, is the first step in determining what federal financial assistance is available to your family and should be completed ahead of each academic year. We use FAFSA^® info to determine if you’re eligible for UIS scholarships, grants or aid.

Administrators with the University of Illinois system paid a visit to Southern Illinois this week.

They said they want to be more involved in Southern Illinois — and that they would like for the region to be more involved with the system’s campuses, programs, outreach and economic development efforts.

Working toward that goal, a group of U of I leaders spent Monday in the region as part of a statewide tour, meeting with legislators, business leaders and representatives of Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Registration is now underway for more than 200 summer courses at the University of Illinois Springfield. Current and prospective students are encouraged to apply now for classes starting on June 7.

“Whether students are wanting to get a jumpstart on classes, or are determined to graduate sooner, this is a great opportunity to continue their educational goals,” said Natalie Herring, UIS associate provost for enrollment management.

The University of Illinois Springfield will remain test-optional for undergraduate applicants through 2023-24, meaning SAT and ACT scores will not be required for admission. 

The University of Illinois Board of Trustee's Executive Committee approved the extension during a meeting on April 1, 2021. 

The decision was made in response to continued pandemic-driven restrictions on large gatherings in many places around the country that limit students’ ability to take the SAT and ACT tests. 

KickStart Orientation is a UIS staple in preparing new Prairie Stars for a transition from home to campus. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's orientation transitioned to an all-online format, and according Lisa McGuire, director of New Student Orientation and Parent Relations, it has been successful.