The SIUC Need-Based Grant is an award made by the school from funds provided by the University. The grant is designed to assist families who have need, but whose need is not met by federal and state need-based grants. The SIUC Need-Based Grant does not have to be repaid.

The student must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the academic year he or she plans to attend, prior to the SIUC April 1st priority deadline date. (See full instructions under Federal Pell Grant).

An undergraduate student is eligible to be considered for the SIUC Need-Based Grant if they have a valid EFC on file in the Financial Aid Office by the deadline date, and are determined to have remaining financial need. Students who have been chosen to complete the verification process (through which information on the FAFSA is verified as accurate by the Financial Aid Office) must complete the verification process before the SIUC Need-Based Grant is awarded. To retain the grant, students must be enrolled on at least a half-time basis.

Undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need, who have met the basic criteria and the April 1st priority deadline, and have a packaging need greater than $8,435 after the Estimated Family Contribution Veterans benefits and other aid excluding loans and Federal Work-Study may be awarded the SIUC Need-Based Grant based on availability of funds.

SIUC Need-Based Grants generally range from $500 to $2,500. Half of the award is provided in the fall semester and half in the spring semester.