Students urged to file FAFSA before MAP runs out
February 06, 2013
The Office of Financial Assistance urges all Illinois residents who may be eligible for need-based financial assistance to submit the 2013-14 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible.
Students must file the FAFSA to be eligible for a State of Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant. (Eligibility for MAP is based on financial need.) However, continuing state budget difficulties mean that funding for MAP grants is likely to be depleted earlier than the FAFSA filing deadline. This has occurred in past years and MAP was suspended when funds ran out.
A FAFSA filing deadline is likely to be implemented soon to regulate the awarding of available MAP funds.
Students should not wait for completed 2012 tax returns before filing the 2013-14 FAFSA. The Office of Financial Assistance recommends using estimated figures if needed.
For students who are eligible, MAP funding can represent a significant source of financial assistance. Missing the FAFSA filing deadline could mean losing up to $4,720 in state funding.
For more information, email or call the Office of Financial Assistance, (309) 794-7207 or (800)798-8100, ext. 7207.
Keri Rursch
Director of Public Relations
(309) 794-7721
kerirursch@augustana.edu
