Financial Aid Eligibility Requirements

To receive financial aid at ECC, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by federal and state programs. Meeting these requirements ensures you qualify for grants, scholarships, work-study, and student loans.

Key Requirements Include:

• Citizenship Status: Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Students unable to complete FAFSA® may qualify for Illinois-specific grants.
• Educational Background: High school diploma, GED, homeschooling at the secondary level, or meeting Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) requirements.
• Enrollment in an Eligible Program: Must be pursuing a degree or certificate program at ECC.
• Valid Social Security Number: Required for federal aid.
• Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP): Maintain a minimum GPA, complete a required percentage of courses, and finish your program within the maximum timeframe.
• Loan/Grant Status: Cannot be in default on a federal loan or owe repayment of a federal grant.

Tip: Even if you don’t meet all federal requirements, ECC may have scholarships, work-study, or state aid options available.