Financial Aid
What is financial aid?
Financial aid comes from government and private sources, such as the CLC Foundation. It’s awarded as work opportunities and loans you must repay, as well as scholarships and grants gifted to you with no obligation to repay.
You can use your financial funds to pay for most college expenses, including:
- tuition and fees
- room and board
- books and supplies
- personal expenses (e.g., food and housing)
- transportation
Your aid package is based on need or other factors like academic achievement, athletic ability, artistic talent or ethnic background. Students of all ages qualify for financial aid. CLC’s Financial Aid Office can assist you with the online application.
CLC’s Federal School Code for FAFSA is 007694
Aim for debt-free at CLC
- 32% of students received federal Pell grants, reducing or eliminating their educational costs with support for learning resources and living expenses
- Nearly $1 million in CLC Foundation student scholarships was distributed with 1,100 financial awards made
- $33,000 saved in tuition and fees on average when students enrolled at CLC for two years before transferring to an Illinois public university to complete a bachelor's degree
Source: CLC Community Impact Report 2025
Financial aid questions?
Office of Financial Aid
Phone: (847) 543-2062
Email: finaid@clcillinois.edu
Apply for aid
FAFSA
What to expect when you apply for federal financial aid.
Alternative Application
Gain access to Illinois financial aid for special circumstances.
Scholarships
Search through available scholarships to find the right ones for you.
Military and veteran benefits
Demystify how to obtain and use your benefits.
Free application workshops
In-person workshops
Registration not required, walk-ins are welcome.
Virtual workshops
To schedule a virtual appointment, email fa.facoach@clcillinois.edu with preferred dates and times.
Documents needed to complete the FAFSA or Illinois Alternative Application
Succeed at financial aid with tips from CLC experts
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What is financial aid? And why you should apply even if you can afford college on your own
Students often think “financial aid” only means federal loans or help for low-income families. In reality, it is a full menu of resources to help you pay for college. Experts say it is worthwhile to apply, even if you can afford to pay for college on your own. -
Who qualifies for financial aid? And what to do if you don't qualify?
The only way to know if you qualify for financial aid -- which opens doors to free grants and scholarships -- is to apply. Even if you don't qualify for federal aid, you have many options to pay for college. -
The FAFSA: Your gateway to grants, scholarships and other aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) unlocks federal grants, state grants and loans. It opens the door to work study programs and many scholarships. Get tips from CLC experts for filing FAFSA and avoid common mistakes. -
Understanding scholarships: Free money that many students ignore
Scholarships are among the most underused resources at CLC. Many students don't realize they qualify for scholarships. Or even that scholarships are available to attend a 2-year school. Get tips from our experts for tapping this free source of aid. -
Veteran and military-connected students: Good reasons to maximize your education benefits at CLC
CLC is a top choice for veterans and military-connected students. Learn why and get expert tips for using your education benefits and avoiding common issues. -
If you're undocumented or don't have a social security number: Your financial aid options are still strong at CLC
Students without a social security number can’t complete the FAFSA. But Illinois provides another path: the Illinois Alternative Application. Learn how to complete this financial aid application. -
Your complete guide to understanding and paying for college at CLC
College is one of the most meaningful investments you can make in your future. But figuring out how to pay for it can feel overwhelming. Don't navigate the process alone. CLC experts offer helpful tips and guidance for financial aid success.
Related information
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