Many financial aid programs are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. You can maximize your opportunity to be considered for funds by paying close attention to important financial aid dates and the Academic Calendar.
Key Financial Aid Dates
| 2025-26 Academic Year | 2026-27 Academic Year | |
|---|---|---|
| FAFSA & Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid available to submit | December 1, 2024 | October 1, 2025 |
| Priority FAFSA filing date for full consideration of all federal, state, and institutional aid | January 2025 | January 2026 |
| Financial Aid Packaging | Financial Aid packaging occurs weekly thru the end of the academic year. Check your To Do list in in Campus Connect for incomplete requirements that could be keeping you from receiving your financial aid offer. |
Check your To Do list in Campus Connect for incomplete requirements. |
| Complete your Federal Loan Requirements | Check your To Do list in in Campus Connect for incomplete loan requirements. Complete all requirements as soon as possible. | July 2026 |
| Summer Financial Aid Application | April 1, 2026 | April 1, 2027 |
Financial Aid Disbursement Dates
Funds will be disbursed to your student account after the close of business on these dates. You will see the credit(s) reflected on your account the next business day.
Undergraduate and Graduate Students
| Quarter | First Disbursement Date |
|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | March 25, 2026 |
| Summer I & Summer 10 week 2026 | June 10, 2026 |
| Summer II 2026 | July 15, 2026 |
| Autumn 2026 | September 2, 2026 |
| Winter 2027 | December 28, 2026 |
| Spring 2027 | March 24, 2027 |
| Summer I & Summer 10 week 2027 | June 9, 2027 |
| Summer II 2027 | July 14, 2027 |
Law Students
| Semester | First Disbursement Date |
|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | January 12, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 | June 3, 2026 |
| Autumn 2026 | August 17, 2026 |
| Spring 2027 | January, 4, 2027 |
| Summer 2027` | May 26, 2027 |
Class Start and Registration Dates
For important dates related to classes, visit the Academic Calendar. Please visit the University Registrar website to view registration information.
Tuition and Payment Plan Dates
For important dates related to tuition deadlines, visit the Academic Calendar. Please visit the Payment Plans webpages to view important dates for payment plans.