Financial Aid

Guide for Completing Western Illinois Sponsored TANF Online Forms

If you meet the following criteria and wish to be considered for a Western Illinois Sponsored TANF Scholarship, please complete the forms as outlined below:

Scholarship eligibility criteria:

To be considered, students MUST meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Illinois resident;
  • Have income below 200% of the poverty level** and/or receive TANF;
  • Have a minor child/children (under the age of 18);
  • Be accepted and enrolled full-time (minimum 12 hours) in a post-secondary education level program/courses leading to a 1st baccalaureate degree and employment;
    • Exceptions granted to minimum enrollment requirements on a case by case basis and during summer enrollment - appeal to be submitted in writing with Student Record for the term involved, excluding summer
  • Maintain at least a 2.5 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) on a 4.0 scale;
  • Meet WIU Satisfactory Academic Progress guidelines as defined by the Financial Aid Office for all students receiving financial aid each semester;
  • Achieve their degree within a maximum of 8 years (provided funding is available for continuing the program);
  • Meet the eligibility criteria each semester funding is awarded.

**2024-2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines

Size of Family Unit   48 Contiguous States & DC    200% of Poverty Level  
1 $ 15,060 $ 30,120
2 $ 20,440 $ 40,880
3 $ 25,820 $ 51,640
4 $ 31,200 $ 62,400
5 $ 36,580 $ 73,160
6 $ 41,960 $ 83,920
7 $ 47,340 $ 94,680
8 $ 52,720 $ 105,440
For each additional person add $ 5,620 $ 11,240

 ** Per ASPE.hhs.gov, 1/2024

Completing Forms for Summer 2024-25:

Applicants will need to submit all five mandatory forms for their applications to be reviewed along  with a medical card for the applicant and all minor children.

Eligibility and Awarding of TANF funds will not occur until after the add/drop period (10th day) of the term in which aid is being requested.