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Home/Tuition and Aid/Office of Student Finance/How to Apply for Aid

How to Apply for Aid

When applying for financial aid, we ask that you complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at least one month before your last class ends for the term in which you are seeking financial aid. This gives us adequate time to process your application.

Apply - Complete the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available every year on October 1st!

  • If you will attend NLU any term during Summer 2025 through Spring 2026, complete the 2025-2026 FAFSA.
  • If you will attend NLU any term during Summer 2024 through Spring 2025, complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA.

FAFSA Verification

If selected for verification, we will send an email to your NLU email address with details on completing and your tasks will be listed within your student portal.  Not all students are selected for verification but if you are selected, you must complete verification before we can determine your financial aid eligibility. Click here for detailed instructions on completing verification.

Eligibility Requirements

Financial Aid Eligibility Requirements

Types of Aid

Explore grants, scholarships, federal work-study, and student loans.

Direct Loan FAQs

Direct Student Loans Frequently Asked Questions

To complete your Direct Loan MPN and Direct Loan entrance counseling, go to https://studentaid.gov/

Student Finance Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Student Accounts

Apply to National Louis University

Announcements

IMPORTANT NEWS FROM THE ILLNOIS STUDENT ASSISTANCE COMMISSION REGARDING THE IL MAP GRANT FOR FINANCIAL AID FOR UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS:
On July 24, 2026, a federal district court ruled that undocumented students are no longer eligible to receive financial assistance from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) for the 2026-2027 school year. The court’s ruling is the result of the Trump Administration suing the State of Illinois to deny college access to undocumented students who have graduated from Illinois high schools. We know this court decision brings tremendous uncertainty and financial challenges for Illinois undocumented students. This is a developing situation as the state explores options and students and families should check back for updates from ISAC as they become available.

 

Financial Aid Applications

2026-2027 FAFSA: is now available. Complete ASAP if you plan to take classes during Summer 2026 - Spring 2027.

2026-2027 MAP Alternative Application: is now available. Complete ASAP if you plan to take classes during Summer 2026 - Spring 2027.

 

Scholarship Spotlight

Donor-Funded Scholarships: We are now accepting applications for 2026-2027. Each scholarship has specific requirements.  Learn more.  Deadline 9/13/26.

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Scholarship: Designed to reward the accomplishments of members by providing financial support to high-achieving community college students to pursue their education. Learn more.

Banyan Scholarship: Offers $1,000 to support students in healthcare fields (including medical, mental health, addiction treatment, clinical, and social care). Deadline 12/8/26.  Learn more: https://www.banyantreatmentcenter.com/resources/student-scholarship/

Your Next Step is Within Reach.

With over 135 years of excellence and 70,000 alumni, we provide an extraordinary education that’s within your reach.

 
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