Step One – Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Students must file the FAFSA each year for federal aid.

• Enter The Chicago School’s Title IV school code, B07022. This will ensure the federal processor electronically sends a copy of your information to the school.
• File online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Completion should take about 15-20 minutes. You will be asked for information from your federal tax forms. It is recommended that you complete your current tax forms prior to filing your FAFSA; however, if you have not filed for the current year, you can estimate your tax information. Be as accurate as possible.
• Follow the instructions for submitting your FAFSA and signature. Using your PIN number expedites the application process. The federal processor sends a PIN number, usually in November, to students who filed a FAFSA the previous year. You can also request a PIN number at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
• File your FAFSA as soon as possible each year. We recommend you file by March 1 for timely processing. The process can take a minimum of six weeks.

Step Two – Provide Documents Requested by The Chicago School: Once The Chicago School receives the FAFSA data and you have been offered admission, we will notify you of any documents needed to process your award letter. Current students can view this by logging onto ePortal.

Step Three – Receive Estimated Award Letter: After you return the documents requested, the school completes a review and will send an Estimated Award Letter. This is usually within two to three weeks after receiving your documents or FAFSA if no additional documents are required.

Step Four – Review Estimated Award Letter (viewable for continuing students by logging onto ePortal):

• Review your estimated award letter and note any corrections.
• Please sign and return your estimated award letter. Current students can accept aid on ePortal.

Step Five – Choose a Stafford Loan Lender: All students have the option to use any lender of their choice.

• Please list lender selection on the Institutional Financial Aid Application.
• Contact your lender directly for instructions on completing a promissory note.
• If you opt to use The Chicago School as your lender, please click here and follow instructions on completing the Chicago School as Lender Promissory Note.

Step Six – Receive Federal Stafford Loan: Disbursement of financial assistance to students who are eligibly enrolled.

• If your aid funds exceed your bill, a credit refund will be direct deposited into your bank. please make sure you complete and return the direct deposit form.
• Credit refunds will not be made prior to the first week of classes each term. Always budget your resources to pay for living expenses incurred prior to the receipt of any anticipated credit refunds.
• Remember, your loan eligibility is based, in part, on your hours of enrollment. If your enrollment changes, your eligibility also may change.

Email questions to finaid@thechicagoschool.edu.