REACH Financial Aid Guide
We recognize that a college education is an investment. We want to work with you to make your education as affordable as possilble. There are a number of financial options available to help you with the cost.
Financial Aid Application Process
- Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. This will need to be done every year. The priority date for Fall applicants is November 1 and for spring applicants is April 1. Remember to include our school code (001772).
- You will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) within 4 to 6 weeks. Check this report for errors and make any necessary corrections.
- Once you have been accepted to the REACH program, you will receive an award letter summarizing your financial aid package.
- A third of all financial aid applicants are selected for the verification process by the federal processor. If you are chosen, a form will be mailed to you.
Explore your options:
Government Grants | Loans | Church Match Grant | Scholarships | Veterans Benefits | Workforce Investment Act | Employer Reimbursement | Tax Credits | Monthly Payment Plans
Your eligibility for financial aid depends on your status as a full time or part time student in the program.
Please call Patricia Coles, Assistant Director of Financial Aid, at 847.317.7061 or the REACH Admissions office at 1.877.237.0806 for more information.
Government Grants (top)
The federal government and the State of Illinois offer grant programs that supply free money to those who meet specific criteria. These grants are need based and time sensitive, so it is important to apply as soon as possible. The FAFSA must be completed to determine your eligibility for grants.
Click here to use an estimator that allows you to determine the amount of money you may be eligible to receive through state and federal aid.
Loans (top)
The federal government's Stafford Loan program offers guaranteed loans for those who meet eligibility requirements. Repayment of these loans need not begin until you have completed your degree, as long as you maintain a half-time enrollment status. The FAFSA must be completed to be eligible for loans.
The Federal Government requires all first time borrowers to complete online entrance counseling and a master promissary note.
Church Match Grant (top)
The Church Match Grant is a unique opportunity to partner with your local church to reduce the cost of your education. Trinity will match your church's donation each academic year, dollar for dollar, up to $1,000. Complete the Church Match Grant Application now!
Scholarships (top)
There are many sources for financial assistance beyond what the government provides. You can locate scholarship resources on our website, at your public library, or on the Internet. Find Private Scholarship Resources now!
Veterans' Benefits (top)
The TIU College Records Office coordinates veterans benefits for REACH students. If you are eligible to receive veterans benefits, you must contact the Trinity Records office at 847.317.7050 prior to registering for classes.
Workforce Investment Act (WIA) (top)
This government program provides a variety of services to dislocated workers wishing to further their education or training. The REACH program is an approved education provider under the WIA. Contact the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity at 800.662.3943 or visit www.illinoisbiz.biz/wia2 for more information.
Employer Reimbursement (top)
Your employer may provide tuition reimbursement. Contact your human resources department for information regarding your company's program. If you are eligible for employer reimbursement, please contact the Student Accounting office at Trinity 847.317.8149 for the "Employer Reimbursement Packet." You will need to submit a letter of verification from your employer prior to starting classes. The letter should state your company's policy and terms for tuition reimbursement. A $100 tuition reimbursement fee exempts you from the 1% monthly deferment fee charged on outstanding balances after the beginning of the semester. The fee covers deferment charges until 45 days after each class.
Two copies of a Tuition Reimbursement Invoice will be sent to you after each course. It is your responsibility to submit the invoice to your employer and to insure that payment is received. Checks should be made payable to "Trinity International University."
Tax Credits (top)
Recent changes in tax laws make it possible for you to receive tax credits for a portion of your tuition. The "Hope Scholarship" offers eligible students up to $1,500 per year during the first two years of college. The "Lifetime Learning Credit" offers juniors, seniors, and graduate students an opportunity to receive a credit up to $1,000. Check with your accountant, tax preparer, or the IRS for more details.
Monthly Payment Plan (top)
Your expected tuition contribution can be paid in convenient monthly payments. The payment terms range from a minimum of three months to six months. Students choosing a payment plan will be charged a deferment fee of 1% per month on any outstanding balance. Deferment fees are assessed on the last working day of every month. A $25 late fee will be charged monthly for any payment received more than ten days late. Payments are due on the 1st of each month. Contact the Student Accounting office at 847.317.8149 to find out more about setting up a convenient payment plan.