IL HB2719

Beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, students must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or a State financial aid application as a prerequisite to receiving a high school diploma from a public high school in Illinois.

Students may alternatively file a waiver form created by the State Board of Education indicating they understand what FAFSA and State financial aid are and have chosen not to apply.

School districts must provide support and assistance to high school students and their parents/guardians to help them comply with this requirement.

Students unable to meet the requirement due to extenuating circumstances may still receive a diploma if they have met all other graduation requirements and the principal attests the district made a good faith effort to assist them.

The State Board of Education may adopt rules to implement this requirement.