MAP Grant for Students Otherwise Ineligible for Federal Student Aid
The 2026-2027 MAP Alternative Application is now available.
IMPORTANT NEWS FROM THE ILLNOIS STUDENT ASSISTANCE COMMISSION REGARDING THE IL MAP GRANT FOR FINANCIAL AID FOR UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS:
On July 24, 2026, a federal district court ruled that undocumented students are no longer eligible to receive financial assistance from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) for the 2026-2027 school year. The court’s ruling is the result of the Trump Administration suing the State of Illinois to deny college access to undocumented students who have graduated from Illinois high schools. We know this court decision brings tremendous uncertainty and financial challenges for Illinois undocumented students. This is a developing situation as the state explores options and students and families should check back for updates from ISAC as they become available.
The Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act creates a pathway for the Undocumented undergraduate students to apply for the state Monetary Award Program (MAP). Students must meet the RISE Act criteria and program eligibility requirements. The RISE Act allows eligible undocumented students and transgender students who are disqualified from federal financial aid to apply for MAP.
- Undocumented Students may be eligible to apply for ISAC’s programs if they are “any person who is deemed an Illinois resident for tuition purposes under state law”. You must meet certain eligibility criteria. Please read more.
RISE Act/Alternative Application for MAP
To accommodate RISE Act-eligible undocumented undergraduate students, ISAC has created an Illinois-specific online application for MAP grants, referred to as the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid.
How to Apply:
The application is now available at the Illinois Student Aid Commission’s (ISAC’s) website:
- RISE Act/Alternative Application: https://studentportal.isac.org/en/alternativeapp, https://www.isac.org/students/before-college/financial-aid-planning/retention-of-illinois-rise-act/#Application
- FAQs for Alternative Application for Illinois
- User Guide for Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid
Unable to submit your application or have questions?
Please contact the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) per contact information below.
Website: https://www.isac.org/students/before-college/financial-aid-planning/retention-of-illinois-rise-act/
Phone: Student Services Call Center, 800.899.ISAC (4722)
8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. CT
E-mail: isac.studentservices@illinois.gov
Spanish-speaking counselors are also available.
