Resources

Before Applying

Information regarding federal and state financial aid programs can be found on the Department of Education's Student Aid website.

Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS)

The Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) provides employment training and placement services to individuals with disabilities to help them train for careers of their interests, skills, abilities, and informed choice. Vocational counseling & guidance services may also include financial support to achieve academic goals. For more information on this program, contact our local office at 217/278-3500 or visit their website at dhs.state.il.us. 

Financial Aid Application

• Students AND parents of dependent students create your FSA ID
• Fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Make it easy! Use the Data Retrieval in the FAFSA to transfer your tax information.
  • If Data Retrieval does not work for you and you are selected for verification, we will need a copy of your tax return transcript or non-filer statement. 
• If you are a male between the ages 18–26, click to register for Selective Service

GradReady

GradReady is a personal finance website created specifically to help busy students like you learn how to manage money. Parkland provides this service to students for FREE! You can make an online account by clicking the banner below. 

HOUSE Liaison

At Parkland College, we understand that life can be challenging and, at times, you may need additional support. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping connect you with the resources you need to succeed during your time here and beyond.

If you are struggling with housing or food insecurities, our Housing and Opportunities that are Useful for Students' Excellence (HOUSE) liaison is available to help provide you with information and resources.

HOUSE Liaison contact information:
Dawn Kamphaus
Director of Financial Aid and Veteran Services
Phone: 217/351-2222
Email: dkamphaus@parkland.edu

Parkland Science Scholars

Parkland Science Scholars is designed to support 10 low-income students to pursue their degree in a science field. More information about this program can be accessed here.

Parkland Websites

• Check the status of documents, view your award letter, and accept or reject your awards on Self-Service through Connect
• Print forms to complete your financial aid application process on our Printable Forms Page

Scholarships

• Parkland Foundation scholarship applications can be obtained on the Scholarship Search.
• A national scholarship search is available at Fastweb

SNAP Benefits

Each state has its own application for SNAP. The Illinois Application can be found on the Illinois Application for Benefits Eligibility website. Information on the program and eligibility requirements in Illinois can be accessed on the Department of Human Services website.

Student Loan Processes

• Complete your Financial Awareness Counseling, Loan Entrance Counseling, and sign your Master Promissory Note
• Complete your Loan Exit Counseling
• Make payment arrangements

Student Veterans

• Apply for your federal GI Bill® benefits at the GI Bill™ Website
• Learn more about Parkland College's services for veterans at the Parkland Veterans Center