Understanding Your Financial Aid Package

Once you’ve been accepted to a college, you should receive and email introducing you to a student portal or whatever system they use online. Typically you’ll get a username and password to log on. Find the financial aid section to see what kind of financial aid package they are offering you. If you can’t see it, it’s usually because they are waiting for you to turn in additional forms. You can contact the Office of Financial Aid at that institution with any questions about necessary forms and additional information about your financial aid package.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION YOUR COLLEGE MAY REQUIRE

We often see colleges request proof that you are (or were) in foster care. You can request a letter from your GAL or caseworker verifying your status as a youth in care. Sometimes this is referred to as “Proof of Wardship” or “Proof of Status as Foster Youth.” Anyone who works for the Illinios Department of Children and Family Services could access your records to provide you with that letter.

Colleges also often ask for VERIFICATION OF NON-FILING, also known as a Tax Return Transcript. That’s because when you fill out the FAFSA as an independent, you may need to prove that you’ve never filed taxes before. You’ll have to submit this form through the mail (not online), so give yourself plenty of time!

Whatever the college may be asking you for, get it to them as soon as possible so you can get that financial aid money! If you need any help figuring it out, our college coaches are here to help!

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