FinAid is a basic guide to federal financial aid programs (including loans and grants). A free scholarship search is also available at this site.

The Federal Trade Commission website shares information about scholarship scams.

ISAC.org is sponsored by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) and contains information on how to plan and pay for college. Specific information is provided on grants, scholarships and loans. This is an excellent resource for students and parents who are starting to explore student financial aid options.

2025-2026 FAFSA Available December 1st

The 2025-26 FAFSA is now available. VanderCook College of Music encourages students to submit an application as soon as possible now that the 2025-26 FAFSA has been made available.

To prepare, if you have not done so already, create an Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID now. Each student and contributor will need their own FSA ID. Taxes required for the 2025-26 FAFSA are based on 2023 tax information.

FAFSA:  Students and parents can file the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. A FAFSA is required to receive both federal and state grants, as well as student loans and some VanderCook aid.  Click HERE to start your FAFSA application.

2026-2027 FAFSA Made Available October 1st

The 2026-27 FAFSA is now available. VanderCook College of Music encourages students to submit an application as soon as possible now that the 2026-27 FAFSA has been made available for students enrolling into the Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 semesters.

To prepare, if you have not done so already, create an Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID now. Each student and contributor will need their own FSA ID. Taxes required for the 2026-27 FAFSA are based on 2024 tax information.

FAFSA: Students and parents can file the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. A FAFSA is required to receive both federal and state grants, as well as student loans and some VanderCook aid. Click HERE to start your FAFSA application.