Who qualifies for financial aid? And what to do if you don't qualify?
Published February 25, 2026
About 25% of College of Lake County (CLC) students receive federal financial aid. That’s according to CLC Financial Aid Compliance Officer Marietta Walker. But many more could qualify — if they didn’t make simple mistakes on application forms. Or apply too late.
“Students need to take their time and read the questions carefully. The biggest mistake they make on the FAFSA is saying they have a bachelor’s degree when, in fact, that's the degree they want to earn,” says Walker.
Another common error is saying you’re an independent student when you're not. FAFSA considers you a dependent student until age 24 unless you meet specific criteria. That includes serving in the military, having your own children, or being married.
Plus, your financial circumstances may change from year to year. That’s why you should apply for financial aid each year you are in college. Even if you don’t qualify for need-based aid at first, you may be eligible the following year or due to special circumstances.
“When you’re applying for financial aid, you use your tax return from two years ago. But a lot can change in two years, such as having lower income or surprise medical bills. You can appeal the decision by providing proof of your current financial situation,” explains Walker.
If you’re worried you won’t qualify, apply anyway.
CLC encourages every student to file the FAFSA or Illinois Alternative Application. Completing them opens doors to grants, scholarships, work-study programs and more.
Don’t qualify for federal aid? You still have many options
Financial aid goes far beyond federal loans and grants. If you don’t qualify for federal programs, CLC can help you explore other options. These include:
1. Scholarships
CLC offers more than 100 unique scholarships each year. Many are funded by the CLC Foundation. Lake County organizations, employers, banks, faith communities and nonprofit groups offer scholarships, too.
“There are hundreds of scholarships available from CLC and private organizations. It’s worthwhile to explore what’s available to you. This is money you don’t have to pay back,” says Ashley Rico, a financial aid coach at the school.
2. Tuition waivers from employers
Many workplaces, including local manufacturing companies, hospitals and corporations, offer tuition reimbursement. As an employee, you may qualify to get free money to pay for your college education. Some employers provide tuition reimbursement for dependent children.
Check with the HR department at your work to see what programs are available. Some employers require you to achieve a good grade before they reimburse you for the cost of a class.
“See if your employer has a tuition reimbursement program. Or if your parents’ employer has one,” says Rico.
3. Payment plans
CLC offers interest-free monthly payment plans that break your tuition bill into smaller, more manageable chunks. You can make payments each month over the course of the semester. Explore installment payment plan options at CLC.
4. Working on campus
Having a job on campus gives you flexible hours steps from your classes and a paycheck to help you avoid debt.
“Jobs on campus are flexible. We always suggest students seek employment here first,” says Rico. You can apply for jobs in the Student Portal, after you apply to CLC and get your login credentials.
Complete the FAFSA to learn if you qualify for a federal work study program. These programs provide part-time jobs to students who show financial need. Explore federal grants and work study at CLC.
Working on campus means less time commuting. You may gain valuable experience for your future career. And the money you earn can help you pay for college tuition and living expenses.
5. The Lancer Emergency Assistance Fund
If your car breaks down, don’t have enough money for rent or face unexpected medical bills, CLC can help. The Lancer Emergency Assistance Fund (LEAF) provides money to help you navigate life’s unpleasant surprises.
Students apply for funding through the Student Portal. Funds are quickly awarded within days.
“LEAF covers pretty much anything that would restrict a student from getting to class. Whatever the issue, we want to ease that,” says Matthew Lay, scholarship coordinator at CLC. Learn about Lancer Emergency Assistance Fund.
6. Apprenticeships with local employers
Local companies offer apprenticeships to CLC students. The company pays your tuition and fees to attend college. You also get paid to work at the company where you practice the skills learned in class. You gain hands-on training from a workplace mentor. Many apprenticeships turn into full-time positions. An apprenticeship can help you complete college without debt. Become an apprentice.
7. Military and veteran benefits
You may qualify for education benefits through your military service. You can get these benefits even if you don’t qualify for federal financial aid. Benefits may be used for you, your spouse or dependent children. They cover tuition, fees, books and living expenses. Explore military and veteran benefits.
Artificial intelligence was used to organize and summarize this article. Guidance, tips and quotes from CLC experts and students are expressly their own.