students walking around north central college campus

Applying for Aid

Complete FAFSA Financial Aid Frequently Asked Questions

Find the best value for your investment

Choosing a college isn't just about the numbers; it’s about finding the best value for your investment.

We promote access for students from all backgrounds

  • Need-based aid and first-year scholarships and transfer scholarships are awarded to all new students
  • Over $55 million in institutional grants and scholarships were awarded last year to North Central students
  • Graduate students are not eligible for all types of financial aid, but there are many different types of resources available to you to help you fund your education.
student studying

Reach Your Goals

Unlike many students who attend large universities, our students have access to all the classes they need to graduate in four years. Not only does that save tuition and the cost of food and housing, it means a timely beginning to graduate school or your career. We want to help you reach your educational goals. As you plan your education, your admission counselor will play a significant role in discussing financial aid with you and your family. We’ll assist you with investigating and maximizing your resources, like scholarships, grants, loans and employment.

student and professor talking

Financial Aid Key Steps

Upon your admittance to North Central as a degree-seeking student, take advantage of the available financial aid resources by following a few important steps.

FAFSA Form

Some student aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. We strongly recommend you complete and file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by January 15.  North Central’s FAFSA code number is 001734. The FAFSA deadline is also important in determining your eligibility for the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) programs. The date is subject to change by ISAC.

Student walking in wentz science center

Determine your eligibility for aid

Along with your FAFSA application, the following conditions are required in order for you to be eligible for financial aid:

  • Admitted into a degree-seeking program at North Central. Some aid programs require a student to be enrolled at least half-time (six (6) credit hours for undergraduates; three (3) credit hours for graduates) each term.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
  • Have a high school diploma or G.E.D.
  • If requested by our office, complete federal verification process or submit other requested documents.
  • Meet satisfactory academic progress
  • Not in default on a Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Stafford Loan (Guaranteed Student Loan), Federally Insured Student Loan (FISL), Federal Supplemental Loan for Students (SLS) or Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS), Auxiliary Loan to Assist Students (ALAS), Illinois Opportunity Loan (IOL), Federal Consolidation Loan or Income Contingent Loan
  • Don’t owe a repayment on a Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Pell Grant, State Student Incentive Grant (SSIG), or Illinois Student Assistance Commission Monetary Award Program Grant (ISAC MAP)

Campus Employment

We offer a variety of employment opportunities on campus to enrolled students. From tour guide in the Office of Admission, computer programmer on special projects, office assistant, to campus security officer, most jobs pay the current minimum wage. Browse campus employment opportunities here. You may also contact the Career Development Office at 630.637.5145.

Campus Safety Officer

Federal Work-Study Program (FWS)

To be considered for FWS, you'll need to file the FAFSA. We’ll determine your eligibility based on your financial need and, if awarded, you may earn up to $1,500 annually. The available positions vary greatly and are not guaranteed.  If you secure a federal work study position, you will earn a bi-weekly paycheck.  Funds from this financial aid program are not applied directly to your student account.

student worker

Financial Aid & Costs for North Central College

A degree from North Central College is an investment with lifelong returns. It’s a commitment to your career, a decision to study the world around you and an opportunity to make friends for life. We partner with you and your family to maximize affordability through a number of financial assistance options and are dedicated to making sure cost is never a barrier to a comprehensive liberal arts education.

students looking over financial aid paperwork