All senior students at PNHS are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as a graduation requirement. The application for the 2025-2026 academic year will open on December 1st. Last year's release faced technical issues, but improvements are anticipated this year.
The FAFSA process begins with the student, who will invite parents to contribute. It is highly recommended that seniors planning to attend college complete the FAFSA application. Families can prepare by visiting https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa and gathering necessary materials before December 1st. Step-by-step assistance is available through videos at https://www.youtube.com/user/FederalStudentAid.
For those opting not to complete the FAFSA, a Non-Participation form must be submitted electronically via the Illinois Students Assistance Commission’s (ISAC) portal starting December 1st. Paper copies are no longer accepted, and instructions can be found at https://www.isac.org/home/fafsa/NPF-Instructions.html.
Undocumented students have the option of completing an Alternative Application for federal student aid or submitting a non-participation form. Details about the alternative application are available at https://www.isac.org/students/before-college/financial-aid-planning/retention-of-illinois-rise-act/#Application.
Completion of one of these forms is mandatory for receiving graduation attire such as cap and gown. Monthly reminders will be sent to ensure compliance.
Thank you,
The PNHS Student Services Department