State Supplemental Grant
The Student-to-Student (STS) program provides state matching grants for need-based monetary awards. Students, through voluntary contributions, donate money to the program and their contributions are matched by the state, based upon state appropriations. You must be enrolled in at least six (6) credit hours (1000-level or above and/or approved remedial courses) for this award. The actual amount received is based on full-time enrollment of 12 hours or more or part-time enrollment of six to 11 credit hours.

To apply for a Student to Student Grant a student must first meet the following general eligibility requirements:
• U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Havd received a high school diploma, GED or pass the Ability to Benefit Test
• Be enrolled in classes leading to a U.S. Department of Education approved certificate or degree. Check this list for ineligible degree/certificates (PDF) for financial aid purposes.
• Not be in default on a federal student loan
• Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (PDF)

Students should start the application process (PDF) by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at: www.fafsa.ed.gov. Unlike the Federal Pell Grant, STS awards are based on available funds. Students are strongly encouraged to file their FAFSA as soon after Jan.1 as possible.

If you file the FAFSA online, the Office of Student Financial Aid should receive your results within two weeks. Our office will then contact you by mail to request additional information that may include, but is not limited to: a College of DuPage Financial Aid Application and copies of 2004 tax and W-2 information.

Your financial aid specialist may take four to six weeks to process your file after all required documents are submitted. Processing time depends on the application length and/or corrections. It is strongly suggested that students apply at least 10 weeks before the start of the semester.

Notification of your award:
You will receive an award letter notifying you of your maximum STS Grant award for the academic school year. If you are not a full-time student, then your STS Grant will be prorated according to the number of registered hours. Please refer to Understanding Your Financial Aid (PDF) for important information on withdrawing from classes and deadline dates for enrollment. Students who have excessive drops or do not complete 67 percent of their classes (356 Kb. PDF) will risk losing their financial aid.

As always, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid prior to dropping classes.