VanderCook College of Music
Financial Aid 101
Welcome to VanderCook Financial Aid
Welcome to our comprehensive resource page, designed to simplify and streamline your financial aid journey. Should questions arise or you wish to schedule an appointment send an email to the address listed below.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)
If you haven’t already, your first pivotal step is completing the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal and state aid. To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, work-study funds, and loans, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form at fafsa.gov.
Illinois State Grants & Scholarships
For our Illinois residents holding MAP, MTI, or Golden Apple awards, please provide your proof of IL residency, following the instructions tailored to dependent or independent students. Unsure of your status? Easily discern it from your Student Aid Report (SAR) or find out here:
Federal Direct Student Loans
If you’re considering accepting your subsidized and unsubsidized federal direct loans, ensure you’ve completed your entrance counseling and master promissory note (MPN).
Stay tuned for upcoming information about PLUS loans
Federal TEACH Grant
Conversely, if the TEACH Grant aligns with your plans, complete your Agreement to Serve and application promptly. Kindly drop me an email once you’re done, signaling me to pull your information and arrange your aid setup.
Should you have questions or wish to schedule an appointment, email [email protected]

Every Gift Matters…
Gifts to VanderCook come in many forms and sizes and each one truly makes a difference. You may wonder how a small contribution can matter to the college – how it can “make a dent.” Combined with other donor gifts, even a relatively minor contribution can make a major impact.