Illinois Student Loans and Financial Aid Programs

Where to Find Them, How to Use Them

When it comes to planning for college the biggest headaches happen when you are pressed to find student loan sources. Once you have a plan and understand what your go-to resources are then the process becomes hassle-free.

You’re lucky: Illinois offers its residents an uncommonly diverse array of student loan and financial aid programs—right in your own backyard. So before you look elsewhere, check out your own state’s excellent college cash options.

**College Zone and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) team up to provide you with all the information you need to plan, meet deadlines and manage student loans.

Federal Loans for Illinois Students and Parents

Always make federal loans your first priority. Complete and file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

  • Most popular among the federal loans are the Stafford Loans that come in subsidized and unsubsidized versions. Many students qualify for both. The federal government will let you know which ones you qualify for.
  • The Parent PLUS Loans are excellent options for parents that have outstanding college costs for their undergraduate students.
  • Graduate and Professional PLUS Loans are the most recent addition to the FFEL program and for good reason: the increasing costs for grad school education. If you’re a grad student in Illinois and have met your lifetime limit for your Stafford Loans, then don’t overlook this PLUS Loan.

Affordable, Private Student Loan from Illinois

Thanks to a confusing student loan lending environment you now have an affordable private loan program straight from Illinois:

The College Illinois! Capstone Loan is an innovative financial product available specifically for senior-year college undergrads enrolled in one of the participating colleges or universities. The interest rate is fixed and you have attractive repayment options.

For more information visit the College Zone website.