Professional Development Request

To request a 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.

Note: We continue to offer presentations in-person and virtually. We will do our best to accommodate requests for in-person presentations based on location and availability of staff. If you have any questions, contact isac.outreachtraining@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 hr.)

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.

A FAFSA Line-by-Line (2 hrs.)

The 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 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.

Overview of Teaching Programs (1 hr.)

This session provides an in-depth overview of the teaching programs administered by ISAC and the U.S. Department of Education available to students in Illinois. Attendees will learn about eligibility criteria, teaching requirements, award amounts, and how to apply for each program.

Supporting Students in Foster Care and Experiencing Homelessness (1 hr.)

Many unaccompanied homeless youth and foster care students have higher education aspirations but find the barriers to enrollment and attendance to be overwhelming. Attendees will learn how we aim to shed light on the specific needs of these student populations and explore effective strategies to provide meaningful support.

Supporting Undocumented Students (1 hr.)

Learn about different immigration statuses, including who is eligible for financial aid applications. We will also discuss challenges these students face, opportunities within the United States and the state of Illinois specifically, and resources we have found to support students in their postsecondary planning journey.

Verification & Professional Judgment (1 hr.)

Learn about the next steps after the FAFSA has been submitted, 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 hr.)

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.