Professional Development Request

To request Professional Development training, complete and submit the Professional Development Request Form below no more than six (6) months and no less than four (4) weeks prior to the event.

We will continue to offer virtual presentations as an option, but we are happy to announce our return to in-person presentations. We will do our best to accommodate requests for in-person presentations based on location and availability of staff. If you have any questions, please contact us at isac.outreachtraining@illinois.gov or isac.pace@illinois.gov.

Presentation Descriptions

The Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid (1 hr.)

The Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid (Alternative Application) is used to apply for the Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) Grant; the state’s largest need-based financial aid program. Attendees will learn about every question included on the Alternative Application and provides an in-depth understanding of how to complete the Alternative Application.

The Financial Aid Process (1 hour)

This session outlines the financial aid process and provides insight on ways to maximize access to financial aid to help pay for college. It introduces the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid, summarizes state and federal aid programs, and identifies trusted sources of information.

FAFSA Line-by-Line (2-3 hours)

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form used to apply for most federal and state and many institutional financial aid programs, including the Federal Pell Grant and the Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant. This presentation goes through every question included on the FAFSA and provides audience members with an in-depth understanding of how to complete the FAFSA.

Verification & Professional Judgment (1 hour)

This session will cover the next steps after the FAFSA has been submitted including verification and professional judgment. Attendees will learn about the common areas for verification and types of documentation that may be requested by institutions. Furthermore, attendees will learn about the process of professional judgment used to address special circumstances that a student and/or their family may be experiencing.

Packaging & Financial Aid Offers (1 hour)

Learn about the process of packaging students for financial aid and understanding financial aid offers. Information in this session can be used to assist students in making an informed college decision using the information from their financial aid offers.

Working with Special Student Populations (1 hour)

Certain groups of students require special considerations to best address their needs and concerns. Learn about ways to support and work with students in the care of the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), unaccompanied homeless students, and undocumented students.