How to Apply for Financial Aid

Step #1: Complete your FAFSA by February 1, or as soon as possible thereafter

• The FAFSA utilizes information from your 2012 tax returns. If your 2012 taxes are not prepared, file with estimates and update your FAFSA when your 2012 tax returns are completed.

Step #2: Complete the Knox Financial Aid Application (PDF)


What to Expect 

• Shortly after you file your FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) from the Federal Student Aid Programs. Your SAR will arrive by e-mail if you provide an e-mail address, or by regular mail if you do not. Carefully review the SAR and make any necessary changes at www.fafsa.gov.
• We will send official financial aid awards in March to admitted first-year students who have submitted all requested documents. Returning students can expect notifications in June/July.
• We will contact you if other documents are required prior to preparing or finalizing your financial aid award.

Illinois Residents
Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants are awarded until State of Illinois funds are depleted. Funds were exhausted by mid-March in previous years, so be sure to file your FAFSA as soon as possible. Knox cannot make up the shortfall if you are eligible for the grant but file your FAFSA too late to receive it.

Returning Students
Financial aid based on need is not automatically renewable. You must reapply each year to be considered for grants, loans, and/or work study awards. This also applies if you plan to study abroad, enroll in an off-campus program, or "walk" in Commencement in June and plan to return for at least one term the following academic year.

Special Circumstances
If your family anticipates a reduction in income, has incurred high medical or dental expenses, pays private elementary or high school tuition for siblings, makes educational debt payments, or has other unique circumstances, you may wish to complete a Special Circumstances Form (PDF) after you file your FAFSA.