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Frequently Asked Questions
Who should apply for financial assistance?
Entering, continuing, or returning Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) students who require assistance in meeting their educational related expenses should apply for financial assistance.
With access to NEIUport, what changes can NEIU students expect to see beginning March 3, 2008?
Entering and continuing NEIU students will be able to view financial aid statuses, access forms, view awards, view authorized financial aid against their billing account and make payments by way of credit, debit or E-check. Students with sufficient financial aid to cover confirmation/down payments will be automatically confirmed starting in Fall, 2008. ALL of this with your NEIUport login!
What are the educational related expenses at NEIU?
NEIU's educational related expenses include tuition, fees, books/supplies, room/board, transportation, and personal items. These items are updated annually and are commonly referred to as the Cost of Attendance (COA). See: Estimated Cost of Attendance for 2008-2009 Award Year
How are students considered for need-based assistance?
Consideration begins with the completion and submission of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA requires annual submission. See Financial Aid Application Process to understand the steps you need to take to apply for Financial Aid.
When is the FAFSA available?
The FAFSA is available on the Internet at www.fafsa.ed.gov Submission of the FAFSA is encouraged as early as possible after January 1 of each year. Use the FAFSA on the Web Pre-Application Worksheet to help guide you through the Web online application process. Paper applications are available in the Financial Aid Office, high schools, community colleges and libraries after January 1.
Does NEIU have recommended lenders for Stafford Student Loans?
Yes. If students DO NOT have a prior borrowing history with a lender NOR a banking relationship such as a checking account, NEIU has recommended lenders who:
- participate in the Illinois College Awareness & Preparation workshops throughout the month of February
- participate at the state, regional and national association levels (as members or presenters); thereby accepting the Code of Ethics prescribed by each association
- offer 0% origination fee on the front end of Stafford Loans and provide alternative/private loans with interest rates comparable to those of Stafford Loans
- offer repayment incentives for students who enroll in direct deposit or make consecutive on-time payments
- provide educational materials for any of the following: (1) non traditional students, (2) transfer students, (3) graduate/professional students, (4) teacher loan forgiveness and (5) default aversion
- provide presentations to NEIU students on various topics upon request (i.e.: borrowing history, default aversion, credit management)
Are there any other forms I need to complete to receive Financial Aid At NEIU?
Yes, students must complete an NEIU Financial Aid Application. The Application is available at the Financial Aid office or you may download it from our web site by clicking on the above link.
What are the need-based financial aid programs?
The need-based programs include the State of Illinois Monetary Award Program Grant, the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Perkins Loan, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), the Federal Work-Study Program, and the Subsidized Stafford loan. Need-based graduate and undergraduate Tuition Waivers are also included in this group of programs. New need-based programs include: Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG), Science & Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) and Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH).
Are part-time employment opportunities for students available on campus?
Yes, Federal Work-Study and Student Aide represent two such employment opportunities for students on campus. Federal Work-Study is a need-based award and would limit the amount that a student can earn. Student Aide is not dependent on financial need and is only limited by the employer's budget. Visit the Student Employment Office at D-012 or call (773) 442-4695.
What Summer Financial Aid Assistance is available?
Summer financial assistance is limited to students who have completed to students who: submitted the FAFSA by the institutional priority file date (February 28); have a complete financial aid package for the upcoming award year AND who are enrolled in at least five (5) credit hours.
Do loans have to be repaid while the student is in school?
In general no, loans do not have to be repaid while the student is in school. Exception to this would be unsubsidized Stafford loans or Parent loans that may require payment on the interest and/or principle while the student is enrolled.
Should students wait to be admitted to NEIU before applying for financial assistance?
No, students are encouraged to submit the FAFSA as early as possible so that once they are admitted their application is not further delayed. Applications can be submitted in paper format or electronically.
Will I need to provide copies of my and or my parents income information?
You may or may not receive a request for additional information, after we receive your data from the central processor, or you turn in your SAR. The request could ask for items like tax returns, W2's, or proof of untaxed income.
How do I know how much aid I'm receiving?
After a review of your application has occurred, you will be mailed an award letter if you qualify for financial assistance.
Is it possible to attend NEIU if financial assistance does not cover the full cost of attendance?
Yes, tuition, fees books and supplies constitute the basic educational cost of attendance. With any remaining balance due students, can select one of three payment arrangements with Student Accounts Receivable.
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