Apply for Aid

A great education is within reach. Applying for scholarships and financial aid at Elmhurst University is easy, and we’re here to help.

The University offers scholarships, grants, loans and work-study. Some types of aid are based on need, others on academic merit, talent or other considerations.

You’ll be automatically considered for Elmhurst University scholarships when you submit your application for admission. To apply for grants, loans and work-study, follow these steps.

Apply

Apply for admission to Elmhurst University. You have to be admitted to the University before we can award financial aid.

Create or Locate Your FSA ID

Create a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID). This ID allows you to access and sign the FAFSA.

Submit Your FAFSA

Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid). Complete the FAFSA as soon after October 1 as possible, and by our suggested priority deadline of February 15. Submit the FAFSA and be sure to list Elmhurst University (FAFSA code 001676) on the form.

Beginning in 2024-25, the FAFSA is simpler! Use the Direct Data Exchange (DDX) to retrieve your tax information.If you are unable to use the DDX, you must request an IRS Tax Return Transcript.
Determine if you need to invite Contributors to your FAFSA, such as a parent or spouse.
Illinois residents should file the FAFSA as soon as possible to be considered for eligibility for the Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant.

Review Your FAFSA Submission Summary

Review your FAFSA Submission Summary. After successful submission of your FAFSA, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to retrieve your summary from studentaid.gov. Check it for errors. If your summary indicates that you’ve been selected for verification, you’ll need to submit additional documentation.

Review and Accept Your Offer

Review your financial aid offer from Elmhurst University. Review your financial aid in Self-Service and accept any self-help aid such as loans. New students may receive Award Offer Letters by mail. When you receive your offer, make sure all the information is correct, then go to Self-Service on the myElmhurst Portal to review your awards and accept any aid.

We also encourage you to explore additional sources of financial assistance. Many foundations, businesses and civic organizations offer scholarships to students who fit certain criteria. Check with your school counselor to find out what’s available to you. You can also visit our External Scholarships page.

Alternative Application—Illinois RISE Act

Eligible students unable to complete the FAFSA can choose to apply for Illinois state financial aid. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) has created an Illinois-specific online application for Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, called the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid. The data from the application will be used to determine a student’s MAP eligibility. Any students meeting the RISE Act criteria are encouraged to complete this application. Eligible students must also meet the MAP program’s eligibility requirements.

Special Circumstances

If your family has extenuating circumstances that you would like us to consider in awarding aid—for instance, a job loss or serious illness—please review your eligibility for Special Circumstances and, if applicable, submit an appeal. For more information, visit our Special Circumstances page.