Financial Aid and Scholarships

Important 2026-27 Tuition and Financial Aid Update for Students with Undocumented Status

A July 2026 federal court ruling in the case United States v. Illinois affects tuition rates and state-funded financial aid for certain students during the 2026–27 school year. As a result of the ruling, Illinois is prohibited from providing MAP grants or other state-funded financial aid to undocumented students, and Harper is required to charge affected students the out-of-state tuition rate.

We recognize the uncertainty and financial challenges this creates for affected students and families. Visit our 2026-27 State Financial Aid and Tuition for Undocumented Students page for FAQs, available resources and information to help you understand your options.

12,167 students were awarded $39,174,733 in scholarships, grants and tuition waivers through Harper College in 2024–2025.

All students should apply for financial aid and scholarships.

When life happens and you need help.

Special / Unusual Circumstances: Have your life circumstances changed significantly since you completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)? Learn more at Special/Unusual Circumstances.

Finish Line Grant: Is something keeping you from completing your Harper College degree or certificate? A family emergency, childcare issues, or problem with your car or housing? Harper offers a Finish Line Grant of up to $1,000 to help. Learn more at: Finish Line Grant

Additional assistance is available at Campus and Community Resources for Students and virtual resources at Harper College Library Online.

Harper College financial aid checklist

Your financial health starts here. Use this simple checklist.

Reminders

Check your Harper email for important financial aid updates.
Login to the MyHarper Portal for any missing requirements needed for financial aid and to view your financial aid awards.

Resources

Use the Financial Student Aid Estimator to get an early estimate of how much federal student aid you may be eligible for in the award year. This is an estimate and the amount of your federal student aid may be different when the FAFSA is completed.