FAQ
Student Financial Aid and Scholarships FAQ Heading link
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Q: What is the timeframe for submitting the FAFSA?
A: Students should submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after the October 1st availability date. Late FAFSA submission can affect eligibility for some financial aid programs.
Q: How do I complete the IRS Data Retrieval on the FAFSA?
A: Students and parents who are eligible to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (IRS DRT) can access it from within the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on the student or parent finances pages:
- Click Link To IRS. (Note: If you have already used the IRS DRT to transfer your tax return information into your application, click the “View option to link to the IRS” hyperlink.)
- Enter your FSA ID. (Note: The person whose tax information is being transferred should enter his or her own FSA ID. Students will not be asked to enter their FSA ID if they entered an FSA ID to begin their FAFSA.)
- Your FAFSA will be saved and you will be transferred to the IRS Web site.
- On the IRS Web site, enter the requested information exactly as it appears on your tax return. If you get an error that there’s no match, double check your information, including the exact mailing address on your return.
- Once authenticated with the IRS, you will be provided with information surrounding your IRS tax information. You can either transfer your information from the IRS, or choose to return to FAFSA on the Web.
If you use the IRS DRT to transfer your tax return information from the IRS, the information will not display on your FAFSA. For your protection, the answer to each question is replaced with “Transferred from the IRS.”
The IRS DRT allows you to securely transfer original IRS tax return information, but not Form 1040X amended tax return information. If you filed a Form 1040X amended tax return, you may need to work with your Financial Aid Administrator to ensure that any information you corrected on Form 1040X is reflected in the amounts transferred to your FAFSA.
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Q: What documents are needed for my financial aid to be awarded?
A: For many students, only a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is necessary to receive a financial aid notification. Students are notified via e-mail if we need additional documentation to process financial aid. Students can also view financial aid requirements from the Student Self-Service website under the Finances tab on the UIC Portal: http://my.uic.edu.
Q: Is there a deadline for submitting the Dependent/Independent Verification Worksheet or any documents that may be required from me?
A: We recommend submitting outstanding financial aid requirements as soon as possible. The deadline for submitting most outstanding financial aid documents is two weeks before the end of classes for each semester. The specific deadlines can be found on the SFAS Calendar.
Q: How can I upload my verification documents for financial aid?
A: You can click here to view the PDF Upload Guide.
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Q. I received an email, and it says it’s from UIC Financial Aid. Is it real?
A. Emails sent to you from the UIC Financial Aid office (faomail@uillinois.edu) will always say, “** This is an automated UIC Financial Aid communication. Please do not reply to this email **” and never contain attachments.
Q: The semester has started, why don't I have a financial aid notification?
A: Only students who have completed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submitted any required documentation will receive a UIC financial aid notification.
FAFSA processing time can take 2-3 weeks before a financial aid notification is issued. Students will receive e-mail notifications when their financial aid notification is available online.If you submitted your FAFSA over two weeks ago and still have not received a financial aid notification, you may have outstanding requirements. Students may need to submit Dependent/Independent Verification Worksheets, US Citizenship documents, Selective Service status, etc. Students will receive e-mail notifications from SFAS requesting additional documentation or they can view requirements at www.my.uic.edu under the “Finances” tab.
Financial aid may be cancelled for students who fail to meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
Q: I am a new student, when will I get my financial aid notification?
A: New/transfer students who submitted a FAFSA and any required documentation requested by SFAS will begin to receive financial aid notifications around the middle of March each year. Students with outstanding documentation requests may receive an unofficial estimated financial aid notification that is subject to change until all requirements are satisfied. The SFAS calendar will show published deadlines for submitting financial aid documentation.
Q: I am a continuing student, when will I get my financial aid notification?
A: Continuing students who have submitted their FAFSA and any additional documentation will begin to receive financial aid notifications around early June each year.
Q: My parent recently lost his/her job, can I qualify for more financial aid?
A: If a student or family member recently lost a job or experienced financial hardship due to death, divorce, or unexpected medical expenses, they may submit a Change of Financial Situation request. Students must complete the form in its entirety and provide required documentation. Submitting a Change of Financial Situation request does not guarantee an increase in aid.
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Q: My award notification shows my housing plans as Off-Campus, but I plan to live at home. Will I be charged for Housing?
No, you will only be charged for housing at UIC if you enter into an official Campus Housing contract with the UIC Campus Housing Office. For more information on UIC Housing options, please visit this link:
If your housing plans are “with parent” or “on-campus” as indicated on your FAFSA, there is no need to notify our office as all housing costs in your Cost of Attendance is estimated/in-direct charges.
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Q: How do I apply for federal student loans?
A: Students apply for federal student loans by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year
Q: How do I accept my loans?
A: Students can accept/decline/reduce any federal loan offered to them through the online financial aid notification. Students access the financial aid notification through the UIC Portal at http://my.uic.edu under the Finances tab. The first page of the financial aid notification will show the Cost of Attendance, Need Calculation and Award Summary. Click the button at the bottom of the page that says “Continue.” On the page that follows, students will report their fall/spring enrollment hours and any other financial resources. By clicking “Continue” on the second page, students come to the final page of the financial aid notification where they choose to accept or decline loans. If a student wishes to accept less than the amount being shown, they can enter a partial amount in a small text box to the right of the accept/decline drop-down menu. After accepting the terms and conditions and submitting a decision, any specific requirements for disbursement will be displayed.
Q: What is the deadline for accepting my federal loans?
A: The deadline for accepting federal loans in any given semester is generally about two weeks before the end of that semester. Tuition and fee billing due dates are prior to the due dates to accept loans.
Q: Can I still receive loans even if I originally declined them?
A: Yes, previously declined loans can still be accepted. Students must access the financial aid notification online at http://my.uic.edu under the Finances tab. At the bottom of the first page, click the button that says “Request Changes.” On the page that follows, students can submit a request in the text box to have loans re-offered. Click “Continue” to submit the request.
Students will receive a revised financial aid notification after requested changes are updated. Typed requests should be as specific as possible.
Q: If I realized I did not borrow enough federal loans, how can I apply for more?
A: Students who accepted a partial amount of the federal loans are still able to request an increase in loans. Students must access the financial aid notification online at http://my.uic.edu under the Finances tab. At the bottom of the first page, click the button that says “Request Changes.” On the page that follows, students can submit a request in the text box to have loans increased. Click “Continue” to submit the request.
Students will receive a revised financial aid notification after requested changes are updated. Typed requests should be as specific as possible.
Q: I borrowed more loan money than I need, can I give back some of my loan(s)?
A: Students can reduce loans at any time during the semester if they borrowed more than necessary. Students must access the financial aid notification online at http://my.uic.edu under the “Finances” tab. At the bottom of the first page, click the button that says “Request Changes.” On the page that follows, students can submit a request in the text box to reduce a loan. Click “Continue” to submit the request.
Students will receive an e-mail notification after requested changes are updated. Typed requests should be as specific as possible.
Important: When a loan has already disbursed to a student account, any reduction in funds will be billed back the student’s account and create a balance owed to UIC. Students who received a refund from loans will need to use that refund to pay the resulting balance. Students who used loans to pay tuition and fees but did not receive refunds will be responsible for paying their loan reduction balance.
Q: What's the difference between Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans?
A: The difference between Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans is the accrual of interest. Subsidized loans will NOT accrue interest while the student remains enrolled in school at least half-time (6 or more credit hours for undergraduate students). Interest on Unsubsidized loans will accrue from the date of disbursement. More detailed information about both Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans can be found here.
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Q: When does my financial aid pay?
A: The payment of financial aid is called disbursement. Financial aid disburses no earlier than 10 days before the beginning of a semester. Disbursement dates and other important dates and deadlines can be found on the SFAS Calendar.
After the initial payment of financial aid, additional payments occur regularly throughout the semester on Wednesday and Friday mornings.
Q: Why haven't my loans disbursed to my student account?
A: Federal Direct loans (Stafford Subsidized/Unsubsidized and Parent/Grad PLUS* loans) and Campus-based loans (Perkins, HPSL and Nursing Student loans) have mandatory requirements. Federal Direct loans require Entrance Counseling and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) before disbursement. Parents approved for a Parent PLUS loan must complete only an MPN. All federal loan requirements can be completed on the Department of Education’s website at http://studentaid.gov. For all campus-based loans, students must have completed a Promissory Note available on the Heartland ECSI website.
Important: Loans will not disburse for students enrolled less than half time, even if all requirements are complete. Half time is 6 or more credit hours for undergraduate and professional students and 5 or more credit hours for graduate students.
*Graduate students who accepted a PLUS are subject to credit approval. An undisbursed PLUS loan may have been denied due to adverse credit. Students can view a PLUS loan denial notification by logging in to http://studentaid.gov and clicking the “View Your Documents” and then “PLUS Correspondence” link from the menu.
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Q: How do I apply for institutional grant programs?
A: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) serves as your application for all federal, state, and institutional grants. Be sure to include UIC’s federal school code (001776) so we receive your application.
Q: Are students admitted in the spring semester eligible for institutional grants?
A: Yes – students admitted during the spring term will receive full consideration for all institutional grants.
Q: In the past, I received the UIC Gateway Grant. As that grant is now discontinued, will I no longer receive an institutional grant?
A: We have combined the UIC Access to Excellence Program and UIC Gateway Grant Program, into the new, UIC Opportunity Grant. For more information, please see our UIC Opportunity Grant section.
Q: I previously received $5000 annually in the UIC Access to Excellence Grant. How much can I expect to receive from the UIC Opportunity Grant?
A: The UIC Opportunity Grant pays a maximum of $3700 per student annually. For more information please see our UIC Opportunity Grant section.
Q: I have received the UIC Opportunity Grant or UIC Access to Excellence (combined) for 8 or more semesters. Will I receive any institutional funding for 2020/2021?
A: Potentially! Please see our UIC Completion Grant section for more information on potential grant funding when you have exhausted your total paid semesters.
Q: I transferred into UIC and received the UIC Opportunity Grant or UIC Access to Excellence (combined) for 4 or more semesters. Will I receive any institutional funding for 2020/2021?
A: Potentially! Please see our UIC Completion Grant section for more information on potential grant funding when you have exhausted your total paid semesters.
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Q: Why did I receive the MAP grant last year, but not this year?
A: Every year ISAC, the state agency that administers the MAP Grant Program, determine a FAFSA submission deadline for MAP eligibility. Any student who submits their initial FAFSA after the state MAP deadline will not be eligible to receive it for that upcoming academic year. UIC’s priority deadline to submit the FAFSA is February 15th. These deadlines are subject to change. UIC encourages students file as soon as possible after the FAFSA is available on October 1.
The MAP Grant is a need-based award. Financial need is determined using the data submitted on the FAFSA. MAP Grant eligibility is determined by FASFA information and tuition, differential and fees charged at UIC.
There are limits to MAP Grant eligibility based on grade level and total credit hours. Those details can be found at the bottom of the State Grant page here.
The MAP Grant is available only to Illinois residents and/or the dependents of Illinois residents. If a student or their parents (for dependent students) no longer reside in Illinois, they will no longer be eligible for the MAP Grant.
Q: Why is there an adjustment on my MAP Grant?
A: The MAP Grant pays according to the number of enrolled credit hours. Students enrolled in 15 or more credit hours will receive 100% of the MAP Grant award on their financial aid notification. Enrollment below 15 credit hours causes a prorated MAP disbursement. If the number of credit hours changes after the initial disbursement of the MAP Grant, by adding or dropping credit hours, the funds already paid to a student account may be adjusted. Information about how enrollment affects the MAP Grant and is available here.
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Q: If I enroll part-time, will my financial aid be adjusted?
A: MAP and Pell Grants will be adjusted if students enroll part-time. Loans, work-study, and UIC aid may be adjusted if the reduced enrollment also reduces a student’s financial need. Students must enroll at least half time to receive institutional grants and loans.
Q: Why did I have loans cancelled or reduced when I received my scholarship or tuition waiver?
A: All students have a Cost of Attendance that is shown on their financial aid notification. Per federal regulations, total financial aid resources cannot be greater than the Cost of Attendance. If an additional scholarship or tuition waiver results in an over-award in excess of the Cost of Attendance, any federal or private loans are subject to reduction or cancellation so that total aid does not exceed the Cost of Attendance.
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Q: What is Federal Work Study?
A: Federal Work Study (FWS) Federal Work Study (FWS) refers to the money used to pay a student for hours worked at a part-time job on campus. The America Reads program offers a limited number of positions as off-campus tutors with the Chicago Public Schools. UIC and the federal government fund the FWS program. FWS shown on a financial aid notification is the total amount a student may earn for the academic year. Students are responsible for finding on-campus employment. To search for a FWS job, visit the Office of Student Employment website.
Q: How can I get Federal Work Study?
A: Federal Work Study (FWS) is a need-based program, so students must be eligible for FWS based on their FAFSA data. Students interested in FWS should submit a request online through their financial aid notification.
FWS funding is limited to undergraduate students, and not all requests for funding are granted. Requests are reviewed in the order they are submitted.
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Q: If I drop a course, how will this affect my financial aid?
A: Students may freely add/drop courses until the 10th day of the semester. If a course is dropped during the add/drop period, the total number of credit hours is reduced which may result in an adjustment of tuition and fees along with eligibility for certain types of aid. Students who received a refund based upon higher enrollment may need to repay funds. For information regarding how enrollment affects the most common types of financial aid, please visit this link.
Q: What happens if I withdraw from a course after the 10th day of the semester?
A: Withdrawing from a course or courses after the add/drop period (not a full withdrawal from a semester) does not affect current term aid or enrollment hours; however, students receive a grade of “W” for the course(s) they withdrew from. Withdrawals can impact future aid eligibility by lowering course completion ratios. See the SAP Policy for information about course completion ratio requirements.
Q: What happens if I withdraw from all my courses after the 10th day of the semester?
A: When a student withdraws from all of their classes in a given semester, two separate processes occur. The Office of the Registrar prorates tuition and some fees (according to their withdrawal policy and refund schedule), and Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFAS) prorates financial aid as required by federal regulations. An explanation of this proration process can be found here.
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Q: How do I get financial aid if I decide to attend classes during the summer?
A: All students who are degree seeking and have a FAFSA on file for the current academic year will be considered for financial aid during the summer semester. Summer financial aid eligibility is evaluated upon enrollment. For more information, view the Summer Financial Aid section found here.
Q: Are there grants available for summer classes at UIC?
A: The only grant that is available for use during the summer is the Federal Pell Grant. Students are only eligible for summer Pell if they did not receive their full Pell award for the fall and spring semesters. Since the Pell Grant pays 100% of the scheduled award when a student takes 12 or more credit hours in a semester, it means that summer Pell will only be available for a student who took fewer than 12 credit hours for the fall and/or spring semesters and did not receive their full award. Most students are only eligible for loans during the summer semester.
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Q: Why hasn't my tuition waiver been applied to my student account?
A: For graduate assistants, SFAS can only post and pay waivers after a qualifying employment appointment is processed by university HR confirming that a student meets their eligibility criteria found here; between 25%-67% employment covering at least 91 continuous days of the semester (41 in summer). Graduate Assistants must also be enrolled in a minimum of 8 credit hours (3 for summer) for a waiver to be paid.
For students awarded Board of Trustees (BOT) Tuition Waivers or Graduate College Waivers (as part of a fellowship, traineeship, etc.), these waivers are reported to SFAS by the Graduate College each semester. If a waiver has not paid, it may not have been reported yet. BOT and Grad College Waivers require 12 or more credit hours during the fall and spring semesters and 6 credit hours in the summer, unless specifically indicated otherwise.
For Child of Employee Tuition Waivers, the parent/employee must complete the online application and the student must submit a Benefit Utilization Record to our office. Specific details and policies are found on NESSIE here.
To ask about a different type of waiver, please contact us.
Q: My financial aid was cancelled/suspended, what can I do to pay for next semester? Can I appeal?
A: Financial aid can be cancelled due to failure to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements. Undergraduate, graduate and professional students must maintain a 2.0 GPA and complete at least 67% of their attempted credit hours to meet SAP requirements. SAP evaluations occur at the conclusion of every spring semester, in mid-May, and students who are cancelled are notified by e-mail.
If financial aid is cancelled from failure to meet SAP requirements students may submit an appeal which will be reviewed by a committee. Submitting an appeal does not guarantee that aid will be reinstated.
Outside of an approved appeal, students can regain financial aid eligibility by successfully completing enough coursework to bring their GPA and course completion ratio at or above the required minimums. If students believe they now meet the SAP requirements but aid has been cancelled, they must notify SFAS directly and submit the SAP Review Request Form.
Appeal deadlines are as follows:
Summer – June 1
Fall – October 15
Spring – March 15
SAP_Appeal_Evaluation_Form -
Q: How much does it cost to attend UIC?
A: http://www.uic.edu/depts/oar/financial_matters/tuition.html
Q: How can I waive the Campus Care health insurance fee if I already have insurance?
A: Students can waive the Campus Care health insurance by completing an online waiver form available through the Campus Care office website. www.campuscare.uic.edu
Q: How do I get on a payment plan?
Q: When is my bill due?
A: Click on the University Bursar link for more information.
Q: Where can I get the 1098-T form so I can complete my tax return?
A: The 1098-T form is made available to students online each year by the University Bursar office. https://paymybill.uillinois.edu/resources/understanding_my_1098-t
COVID-19 Emergency Grant Heading link
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1. Who qualifies for a UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
- To be eligible for a COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
- Filed a FAFSA prior to 3/13/2020
- Submitted all required documentation to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships before 3/13/2020;
- Been enrolled in an in-person, degree seeking program prior to 3/13/2020 and remained enrolled through the semester;
- Been enrolled at half-time status or greater during Spring semester 2020, this means for:
- Undergraduate Students = 6 credits or above
- Graduate Students = 5 credits or above
- Professional Students = 6 credits or above
2. Is there an application required?
Yes, an application is required for this program. No additional documentation is required.
If you have been selected to receive the UIC COVID 19 Emergency Grant, please follow the below steps to access your application:
- Log in to the student portal: my.uic.edu
- Click on the Financial Aid tab (second top tab)
- Once on Financial Aid tab click on “Student Requirements”
- Select the 2019-2020 Aid year click “Submit”
- Then click on: “COVID-19 Emergency Grant Application”
For upload instructions, please click here: https://docs.financialaid.uic.edu/docs/PDF_upload_guide.pdf
3. How much is the COVID – 19 Emergency Grant?
$1,000 for Spring Semester. Due to funding limitations, awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. Is there a deadline for me to upload my application?
Yes, you must provide your application to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships via the Student Portal by 5/8/2020. Incomplete applications will be denied. Applications submitted after 5/8/2020 will not be considered.
5. How will I know if I am approved?
- If you are approved, the status of your application on the Student Portal will be moved to “Satisfied.”
- You will also receive a revised award letter listing the COVID-19 Emergency Grant Award in your financial aid information.
6. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
No, approval of your COVID-19 Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
Please note that each student can receive ONLY ONE Emergency Grant per semester from UIC. If you have received a previous Emergency Grant from your department or another UIC source, we will review your eligibility to determine which grant provides the most assistance to you.
7. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
No, this grant will not be applied by the University towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC. Nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan, or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to impacts COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
8. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my $1,000 COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after the 5/8/2020 deadline. Emergency Grants will be provided via direct deposit. You must be enrolled in direct deposit to receive a UIC Emergency Grant.
- To be eligible for a COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
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1. Will the UIC Emergency Grant be available for the Summer 2020 semester?
Yes, there are COVID-19 Emergency Grants during the Summer 2020 Semester but the amount of funding is limited.
2. Who will qualify for Summer COVID-19 Emergency Grants?
- To be eligible for a Summer COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
- Filed a FAFSA and submitted all required documentation to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships by 3/13/2020;
- Been enrolled in an in-person, degree-seeking program prior to 3/13/2020;
- Be enrolled at UIC in any credit status* through the end of the final add/drop period for Summer 2020, which is 6/19/2020;(*This includes 0 credit hour internships)
3. Do I need to submit an application for the Summer 2020 UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
No; No documentation is required for consideration for this program for Summer 2020.
4. How much is the COVID – 19 Emergency Grant?
$1,000 for Summer Semester
5. If I meet the criteria for eligibility listed above, am I guaranteed to receive a UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant for Summer 2020?
- No, funding is limited for Summer 2020 and will be awarded as based on:
- Undergraduates = Initial Date of Summer Registration
- Graduate/Professionals = Date of 19/20 FAFSA submission
6. How will I know if I am approved?
If approved, you will receive an email from the Office of Student Financial Aid noting your approval for this program on or after 6/22/2020
7. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
No, approval of your COVID-19 Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
Please note that each student can receive ONLY ONE Emergency Grant per semester from UIC. If you have received a previous Emergency Grant from your department or another UIC source, we will review your eligibility to determine which grant provides the most assistance to you.
HOWEVER, if you received a UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant for Spring 2020, that DOES NOT disqualify you for Summer 2020 approval.
8. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
No, this grant will not be applied by the University towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC. Nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan, or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to impacts COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
9. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my $1,000 Emergency Grant?
We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after the final add/drop period for Summer semester, starting the week of 6/22/2020.
- To be eligible for a Summer COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
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1. Will there be COVID-19 Emergency Grants available for Fall 2020 semester?
- Yes, however, funding is very limited.
2. Who is eligible to apply for a COIVD-19 Emergency Grant for Fall 2020 semester?
- You must have filed a FAFSA for the 20/21 award year
- Be enrolled in an in-person, degree seeking program for the Fall 2020 semester; and
- You must have filed and been approved a Change of Financial Situation Appeal for the 20/21 Academic Year
- Your change of income MUST be due to the COVID 19 Pandemic
- Please see this link for more information: https://financialaid.uic.edu/aid-process/change-of-financial-situation/
3. Is an application required?
- YES
- Please see this link for the application process: https://financialaid.uic.edu/aid-process/change-of-financial-situation/
4. How much is the COVID-19 Emergency Grant for Fall 2020 semester?
- $3,000 for Dependent Students; $1,500 for Independent Students. Due to funding limitations, awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis as based on your Change of Financial Situation Approval date.
5. How will I know if I am approved?
- If you are approved, the status of your Change of Financial Situation Appeal document will be moved to “Satisfied” on your student portal.
- Once approved, your grant will be processed to your student account in 5 to 7 business days, starting Monday, September 7th.
6. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
- No, approval of your COVID-19 Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
Please note that each student can receive ONLY ONE Emergency Grant per semester from UIC. If you have received a previous Emergency Grant from your department or another UIC source for the Fall semester, we will review your eligibility to determine which grant provides the most assistance to you.
7. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
- No, this grant will not be applied by the University towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC. Nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan, or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to impacts COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
8. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
- We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after Fall semester add/drop deadline, starting September 7th. Emergency Grants will be provided via direct deposit. You must be enrolled in direct deposit to receive a UIC Emergency Grant.
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1. Will there be a COVID-19 Emergency Grant available for the Spring 2021 semester?
- As of 2/24/2021 all COVID-19 Emergency Grant funding allocated to SFAS has been exhausted. For Emergency Grant support, please review: https://dos.uic.edu/student-assistance/uicare/u-i-care-fund/
2. Who is eligible to apply for a COVID-19 Emergency Grant for the Spring 2021 semester?
- You must have filed a FAFSA for the 20/21 Academic Year
- Be enrolled in an in-person, degree seeking program for the Spring 2021 semester; and
- You must have filed and been approved for the Change of Financial Situation UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant Application for the 20/21 Academic Year
- Your change of income MUST be due to the COVID-19 Pandemic
3. Is an application required?
- YES
- Please contact your Financial Aid Counselor at https://financialaid.uic.edu/faq/contact-us/ for more information.
4. How much is the COVID-19 Emergency Grant for the Spring 2021 semester?
- $3,000 for Dependent Students; $1,500 for Independent Students. Due to funding limitations, awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis as based on your Change of Financial Situation UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant Application Approval date.
5. If I received the COVID-19 Emergency Grant from SFAS for the Fall 2020 semester, can I also receive the COVID-19 Emergency Grant for the Spring 2021 semester?
- Yes, but only if you are completing the Change of Financial Situation UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant Application for a new circumstance that applies to a different eligible individual.
6. How will I know if I am approved?
- If you are approved, you will receive an email from our office indicating you have been approved.
- Once approved, your COVID-19 Emergency Grant will be processed to your student account in 5 to 7 business days, starting Monday, January 25th.
7. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
- No, approval of your COVID-19 Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
Please note that each student can receive ONLY ONE COVID-19 Emergency Grant per semester from UIC. If you have received a previous Emergency Grant from your department or another UIC source for the Spring 2021 semester, we will review your eligibility to determine which grant provides the most assistance to you.
8. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
- No, this grant will not be applied by the University towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC. Nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan, or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to the impacts of COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
9. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
- We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after the Spring 2021 semester add/drop deadline, starting January 25th. COVID-19 Emergency Grants will be provided via direct deposit. You must be enrolled in direct deposit to receive a UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant.
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1. Who qualifies for a UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
- To be eligible for a COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
- Filed a FAFSA for the 20/21 Academic Year OR have filed an Alternative Application for State Financial Aid for the 20/21 Academic Year
- Submitted all required documentation to confirm financial aid eligibility to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships before 3/22/2021
- Have an Expected Family Contribution of 0 – 9000 as based on your FAFSA Application (FAFSA filers ONLY)
- Be enrolled in a degree-seeking program for the Spring 2021 semester.
- If you are not eligible to file a FAFSA or the Alternative Application for State Financial Aid, you can apply for a U and I Cares Emergency Grant via the Dean of Students Office.
- Please note the amount of funding is limited, and available on first-come, first-served basis
- Approval is not guaranteed
- Additional information may be found at: https://dos.uic.edu/student-assistance/uicare/u-i-care-fund/
2. I am a Graduate/Professional student. Am I eligible for the Spring 2021 COVID 19 II Emergency Grant?
- Yes, Graduate/Professional students have been allocated Emergency Funding
- To be eligible for a COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
- Filed a FAFSA for the 20/21 Academic Year
- Submitted all required documentation to confirm financial aid eligibility to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships before 3/22/2021
- Be enrolled in a degree seeking program for the Spring 2021 semester.
3. How much is the COVID–19 Emergency Grant?
- Up to $1,000 for Spring Semester.
4. Is there an application required?
- Undergraduate Students – NO, an application is NOT required
- Graduate/Professional Students – YES, an application IS required
- If you are eligible for the COVID -19 Emergency Grant, your portal (my.uic.edu) will be updated with a document for you to complete and upload. See sample email image shown on the side.
- At that time, you may apply; however, funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Electronic signatures are also acceptable for the application
- If you are eligible for the COVID -19 Emergency Grant, your portal (my.uic.edu) will be updated with a document for you to complete and upload. See sample email image shown on the side.
5. I am a Graduate/Professional student. Is there a deadline for me to upload my application?
- Yes, you must provide your application to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships via the Student Portal by 4/15/2021 (DEADLINE HAS NOW BEEN EXTENDED TO 4/30/2021!)
- Incomplete applications will be denied
- Applications submitted after 4/30/2021 will not be considered.
6. I am an Undergraduate student. How will I know if I am approved?
- An email will be sent to your @uic.edu email address with your approval confirmation.
7. I am a Graduate/Professional student. How will I know if I am approved?
- If you are approved, the status of your application on the Student Portal will be moved to “Satisfied”
- An email will be sent to your @uic.edu email address with your approval confirmation.
8. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 II Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
- No, approval of your COVID-19 II Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
Please note that each student can receive ONLY ONE Emergency Grant per semester from UIC. If you have received a previous Emergency Grant from your department or another UIC source, we will review your eligibility to determine which grant provides the most assistance to you.
9. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 II Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
- No, this grant will not be applied by the University towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC, nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to the impact of COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
10. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my $1000 COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
- We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after 4/2/21 for Undergraduate students with a FAFSA on file and 4/26/21 for Graduate/Professional students.
- For student who filed an Alternative Application for State Financial Aid, we will begin making disbursements at the end of April/early May. Emergency Grants will be provided via direct deposit. You must be enrolled in direct deposit to receive a UIC Emergency Grant.
- To be eligible for a COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
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1. Will the UIC Emergency Grant be available for the Summer 2021 semester?
- Yes, there are COVID-19 Emergency Grants during the Summer 2021 Semester but the amount of funding is limited.
2. Who will qualify for Summer COVID-19 Emergency Grants?
- To be eligible for a Summer COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must have:
- Be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during Summer 2021
- PLEASE NOTE: International students are not eligible for Summer 2021 COVID III Emergency Grants
- For Emergency Support, International students can apply for funding via the U and I Care Emergency Fund in the Dean of Student’s Office
- PLEASE NOTE: International students are not eligible for Summer 2021 COVID III Emergency Grants
- Be enrolled at UIC in any credit status* through the end of the final add/drop period for Summer 2021, which is 6/18/2021;
*This includes 0 credit hour internships
- Be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during Summer 2021
3. Do I need to submit an application for the Summer 2021 UIC COVID-19 III Emergency Grant?
- No; No documentation is required for consideration for this program for Summer 2021.
4. How much is the COVID – 19 III Emergency Grant?
- $500 for Summer Semester
5. If I meet the criteria for eligibility listed above, am I guaranteed to receive a UIC COVID-19 III Emergency Grant for Summer 2021?
- Yes, if you meet the criteria above, you can expect to receive a $500 COVID-19 III Emergency Grant for the Summer term
6. How will I know if I am approved?
- If approved, you will receive an email from the Office of Student Financial Aid noting your approval for this program on or after 6/22/2021
7. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 III Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
- No, approval of your COVID-19 III Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
- Please note that each student can receive ONLY ONE Emergency Grant per semester from UIC. If you have received a previous Emergency Grant from your department or another UIC source, we will review your eligibility to determine which grant provides the most assistance to you. HOWEVER, if you received a UIC COVID-19 II Emergency Grant for Spring 2021, that DOES NOT disqualify you for Summer 2021 approval.
8. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
- No, this grant will not be applied by the University towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC. Nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan, or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to impacts COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
9. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my $500 Emergency Grant?
- We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after the final add/drop period for Summer semester, starting the week of 6/22/2021
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1. Will the UIC Emergency Grant be available for the Fall 2021 semester?
- Yes, there are COVID-19 Emergency Grants during the Fall 2021 Semester but the amount of funding is limited
2. Who qualifies for a UIC COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
- To be eligible for a Fall COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must:
- Be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during Fall 2021
- PLEASE NOTE: International students are not eligible for Fall 2021 COVID III Emergency Grants
- For Emergency Support, International students can apply for funding via the U and I Care Emergency Fund in the Dean of Student’s Office
- PLEASE NOTE: International students are not eligible for Fall 2021 COVID III Emergency Grants
- Be enrolled at UIC in any credit status through the end of the final add/drop period for Fall 2021, which is Friday, September 3rd.
- Be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during Fall 2021
3. I am a Graduate/Professional student. Am I eligible for the Fall 2021 COVID 19 III Emergency Grant?
- Yes, Graduate/Professional students have been allocated Emergency Funding; an application will be required (please see below).
4. How much is the COVID–19 III Emergency Grant?
- Up to $1,000 for Fall Semester.
5. Is there an application required?
- Undergraduate Students, with established EFCs as based on the FAFSA or RISE application in range of 0 -9000: NO, an application is NOT required
- Remaining Undergraduates/Graduate/Professional Students – YES, an application IS required. Applications for eligible students will be posted to the UIC portal (my.uic.edu) in mid-September.
- If you are required to complete an application for the COVID -19 III Emergency Grant, your portal (my.uic.edu) will be updated with a document for you to complete and upload.
- At that time, you may apply; however, funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- If you are required to complete an application for the COVID -19 III Emergency Grant, your portal (my.uic.edu) will be updated with a document for you to complete and upload.
6. I am a Graduate/Professional student or I am an Undergraduate student and my EFC is greater than 9000, is there a deadline for me to upload my application?
- Yes, you must provide your application to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships via the Student Portal by Friday, October 1st
- Incomplete applications will be denied
- Applications submitted after October 1st will not be considered.
7. I am a Graduate/Professional student or I am an Undergraduate student and my EFC is greater than 9000. How will I know if I am approved?
- If you are approved, the status of your application on the Student Portal will be moved to “Satisfied”
- An email will be sent to your @uic.edu email address with your approval confirmation.
8. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 III Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
- No, approval of your COVID-19 II Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
- Please note that each student can receive ONLY ONE Emergency Grant per semester from UIC. If you have received a previous Emergency Grant from your department or another UIC source, we will review your eligibility to determine which grant provides the most assistance to you.
9. If I am approved, will the COVID-19 III Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
- No, this grant will not be applied by the University towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC, nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to the impact of COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
10. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my $1000 COVID-19 Emergency Grant?
- We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after September 7th for Undergraduate Students, with established EFCs as based on the FAFSA or RISE application in range of 0-9000.
- After October 11th for Remaining Undergraduates/Graduate/Professional students.
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1. Will the UIC COVID-19 III Emergency Grant be available for the Spring 2022 semester?
- Yes, there are COVID-19 Emergency Grants during the Spring 2022 Semester but the amount of funding is limited.
2. Who will qualify for Spring 2022 COVID-19 III Emergency Grants?
- To be eligible for a Spring 2022 COVID-19 Emergency Grant, you must:
- Be enrolled in a program during Spring 2022
- PLEASE NOTE: International students are not eligible for Spring 2022 COVID III Emergency Grants
- For Emergency Support, International students can apply for funding via the U and I Care Emergency Fund in the Dean of Student’s Office
- PLEASE NOTE: International students are not eligible for Spring 2022 COVID III Emergency Grants
- Be enrolled at UIC in any credit status greater than 0 credits through the end of the final add/drop period for Spring 2022 which ends on January 21, 2022
- Be enrolled in a program during Spring 2022
3. Do I need to apply for the Spring 2022 UIC COVID-19 III Emergency Grant?
- No; No documentation is required for consideration for this program for Spring 2022
4. How much is the Spring 2022 COVID – 19 III Emergency Grant?
- The COVID-19 III Grant Amount is to be determined for Spring 2022, however, all eligible students will receive the SAME amount of funding
5. If I meet the criteria for eligibility listed above, am I guaranteed to receive a UIC COVID-19 III Emergency Grant for Spring 2022?
- Yes, if you meet the criteria above, you can expect to receive a payment from the COVID-19 III Emergency Grant for the Spring term
6. How will I know if I am approved?
- If approved, you will receive an email from the Office of Student Financial Aid noting your approval for this program on or after January 31, 2022
7. If I am approved, will the Spring 2022 COVID-19 III Emergency Grant affect my other financial aid?
- No, approval of your Spring 2022 COVID-19 III Emergency Grant will not affect the amount or eligibility for other financial aid that you have already received.
8. If I am approved, will the Spring 2022 COVID-19 III Emergency Grant count against my tuition and fees if I still owe a balance to UIC?
- No, the University will not apply this payment towards any outstanding balance you may owe UIC. Nor will it decrease any payments owed against your payment plan, or the amount due. You can use it to cover any expenses of your choice that may have resulted due to impacts COVID-19. You will not need to report how you used this funding.
9. If I am approved, when can I expect to receive my Spring 2022 COVID-19 III Emergency Grant?
- We will begin making disbursements to student accounts after the final add/drop period for Spring semester, starting the week of January 31, 2022
10. Will the COVID-19 Emergency Grant program be available in future UIC terms after Spring 2022?
- NO. Spring 2022 is the LAST TERM of all COVID-19 Emergency Grant programs.
FALL 2020 COVID funds update Heading link
If you have a change in your financial situation, and would like to appeal the information provided on your 22/23 FAFSA application, please review this page:
https://financialaid.uic.edu/aid-process/change-of-financial-situation/