IL HB4879

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

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

School districts must provide notice to each student and parent/guardian about the option to file a waiver instead of submitting a financial aid application.

School districts must provide support and assistance to help students comply with these requirements, and may award diplomas to students unable to meet them due to extenuating circumstances if the principal attests to good faith efforts.

The Act takes effect June 1, 2020.