Financial Aid for Returning Students

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents

How to Apply for Financial Aid for 2012-2013

Financial aid based on need is not automatically renewable. You must reapply to be considered for grants, loans, and/or work awards each year you are at Knox.

If you plan to return to Knox for at least one term during the 2012-2013 academic year, follow the instructions below to apply for financial aid. These instructions also apply to students who will be enrolled in a Knox-approved off-campus program or will be "walking" in commencement in June, 2012 and plan to return for at least one term in 2012-2013.

1. Complete and file the 2012-2013 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
File your FAFSA electronically at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Please note that you will need PINs for you and one parent. These act as your signatures for the FAFSA. If you are unable to locate your PIN(s), a duplicate PIN can be retrieved at www.pin.ed.gov.

It is advisable that you use the IRS data retrieval feature on the FAFSA site to securely transfer your correct tax information to your FAFSA. This feature can be used for filing your initial FAFSA or when making corrections. Note: Your IRS information may not be available for 1-2 weeks if you filed your taxes electronically or for 6-8 weeks if you filed your taxes by mail.

2. Complete and return the 2012-2013 Knox Financial Aid Application (PDF). Signatures are required for both student and parent(s). Mail to: Office of Financial Aid, Knox College, 2 East South Street, Galesburg, IL 61401 or fax to: (309)341-7453.

3. If requested, send 2011 U.S. Income Tax information and W-2 Wage and Tax Statements. Our office will contact you if these documents are needed.

Deadlines
We recommend filing for financial aid by April 15. Students who submit all requested documents by May 31 will be given priority for financial assistance.

Illinois Residents: State of Illinois MAP (Monetary Award Program) grants are awarded until funds are depleted. In 2011, funds were depleted by March 25. If you are eligible for the MAP grant but file your FAFSA too late to receive it, Knox will not make up the shortfall.

If your family's tax returns won't be finished until after April 15, please complete both the FAFSA and the Knox Financial Aid Application with estimated income figures. Once your tax returns are completed, you should correct your FAFSA to reflect actual 2011 tax information. It is advisable that you use the IRS data retrieval feature on the FAFSA site to securely transfer your information into your FAFSA. This feature can be used for filing your initial FAFSA or when making corrections.

Special Circumstances
If your family has special circumstances such as anticipated reduction in 2012 income, high medical or dental expenses, private elementary or high school tuition payments for siblings, or educational debt payments, you may complete a Special Circumstances form (PDF) after your 2012-2013 FAFSA has been completed.

When to Expect Your Financial Aid Package
Most financial aid packages will be prepared and mailed between June 1 and July 31, 2012 if all requested documents have been submitted.