Announcement from SIU-E Regarding Free Tuition

This message came from the Chancellor at SIU-E...

We know that too often the opportunity to earn a college degree is not realized because students worry about how they will pay tuition. I am also surprised by how many students and families miss available opportunities simply because they do not know about them.

I am proud to share that this year the SIUE Commitment, SIUE’s program to provide free tuition and fees has been expanded to more deserving Illinois residents. Illinois students admitted to SIUE arriving from households with an annual income of $113,575 or less will now have access to free tuition and fees.

All of the Illinois state universities have a similar program. This link will explain the program at each of the universities.  It is worth a moment to see if you qualify.

Registration Presentations

The counselors met during extended homeroom this week with the to-be sophomores, juniors, and seniors
about registration for the 2025-26 school year.  Students are encouraged to discuss their class selections with parents and enter their classes directly into TeacherEase.  The counselors will begin calling the students to the counseling office to discuss those choices when we all return from holiday break. Click below for each presentation. Remember: it is the grade students will be in next year.

Sophomore Presentation

Junior Presentation

Senior Presentation

The Skills Gap: New Opportunities Through Trade Schools

As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, trade schools are stepping up to fill the gap. These institutions offer specialized training in fields like construction, healthcare, and technology, providing students with the hands-on experience and credentials they need to succeed. With the promise of good wages and job security, trade schools are becoming an increasingly attractive option for those looking to enter the workforce quickly and effectively. This video produced by MTI gives a closer look at that Skills Gap.

ACT Prep at Bradley University

📢 Attention Juniors!

Bradley University will host online ACT Prep Classes from February 4th to March 4th, in preparation for the April test. This is a fantastic opportunity to boost your scores and enhance your college applications. All juniors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these classes. Don’t miss out on this valuable chance to prepare for your future!

ACT review will be on Tuesday evenings from February 4 - March 4, 2025.

Cost: $99

Click here to register

Click here to purchase ACT book for class

Work based Learning Opportunities for IVC Students

Exciting news! Applications are now available for the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs in Construction, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and Emergency Medical Services/Fire Science. These programs offer students hands-on experience and invaluable skills in their chosen fields, preparing them for future careers.

The Construction program allows students to explore the trades, while the CNA program provides essential training for those interested in healthcare. The EMS/Fire Science program is perfect for students passionate about emergency services, offering training in fire safety, emergency medical care, and rescue operations.

These WBL programs not only provide practical experience but also open doors to potential job opportunities and certifications. Interested students should apply as soon as possible to secure their spots. More information can be found by clicking here.

Don't miss this chance to gain real-world experience and jumpstart your career!

Scheduling 101 - Presentation for Parents

The Scheduling 101 presentation at IVC High School provided parents with an overview of the scheduling process. Key points included:

• Sequencing of Classes: Core subjects like English, Math, Science, and Social Studies were discussed, along with academic pathways and prerequisites for advanced courses.
• Graduation Requirements: Detailed information on credit requirements, mandatory courses, and standardized tests needed for graduation was provided.
• Class Schedule Layout: The daily schedule and block scheduling were explained to show how students’ days are structured.
• Electives Offered: A wide variety of electives, special programs like AP courses and Dual Enrollment, and extracurricular opportunities were highlighted.

Parents were encouraged to engage with their children’s academic planning and use school resources to ensure a successful high school experience.

Click here if you would like to
view the PDF of the presentation with speaker notes

New Online Curriculum Guide

Gone is the 60+ page Course Description Book. Time to celebrate!! Everything can be found online using our new Curriculum Guide. It is simple to use and easily accessible. The online Curriculum Guide includes:

--- Breakdown of graduation requirements
--- Descriptions for every course offered
--- Information about all programs offered such as CNA and WBL
--- Links to valuable information about career information.

Click here to check the new guide

Free FAFSA Help From ISAC

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the FAFSA? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) is here to help you navigate the financial aid maze with ease. 💡

Why stress when you can get FREE virtual assistance? ISACorps staff members are ready to guide you through every step of the FAFSA process. Whether you’re stuck on a specific question or need a full walkthrough, they’ve got your back!

How to Book Your Session:

• Visit the ISAC Booking page: www.isac.org/booking
• Choose a convenient time for your one-on-one virtual meeting.
• Get ready to tackle the FAFSA with confidence!

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to secure your financial future. Book your session today and take the first step towards your college dreams! 🌟

Bradley Offers Virtual SAT/ACT Prep

Bradley University is excited to offer a structured, supportive virtual SAT/ACT prep program designed to help students strengthen their skills and improve their test-taking strategies. From Feb. 4 through Mar. 4, students can take advantage of

• Impactful instruction in key areas tested on SAT/ACT
• Practice exams to familiarize students with the test format
• Tips and strategies for managing time and reducing test anxiety.

Students can register now to build their skills and connect with experienced instructors. Click this link to register for these interactive online reviews.

Seniors Going to College - How Far Along Are You?

We are now into November. Any senior planning on going to college should be started with the process. If not, TODAY is the day to get started. Below is a checklist of things that should be done or at least underway by now.

• Investigate colleges and possible majors to find a good fit. (See your counselor if you are struggling with this step.)
• Visit colleges (It is important to see if a specific college is a good fit for you.)
• Apply to colleges (All applications can be found on the colleges' websites.)
• Look for scholarship (Check out Scholarship link to the right and the Off to College Guide for more links to great scholarship websites.)

Check out your account on Naviance.com to update your college page. This will help your counselor send out materials in a timely fashion.

U of I to Host Application Workshops

Struggling with your U of I application? Join one of their upcoming virtual application workshops to get all the tips they need to submit a strong application. The admissions counselors will walk you through the process and answer any questions you have about Illinois or applying.

The workshops are Nov 20, Dec 4, and Dec 18.

Thank You, Veterans!

The IVC Counselors would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces. Your sacrifices, dedication, and courage have not gone unnoticed. Thank you for your service and the lasting impact you've made - you inspire and shape our communities in countless ways.

Work Based Learning - Construction

All current Juniors interested in a trade after high school - this is for you! Spend a year learning about the construction industry and gain credit doing it. Students in the Work-based Learning (WBL) Construction class will get a hands-on chance to learn about all of the different trades. Some of the trades the students will learn about include Plumbers, Sheet Metal Workers, Carpenters, Cement Masons, Iron Workers, Steamfitters, Electricians, and Operating Engineers.

Here is how the program works...

First semester:

• Students participate in WBL in either the morning or afternoon. They are expected to be at IVC the other half of the day.
• Students will spend a week or so at each of the different trades, learning that trade in a hands-on atmosphere.
• Students will also spend time covering all of the OSHA Guidelines for the workplace.

Second semester:

• Students choose one of the trades and spend a semester at an actual job site.

Applications are available in the Counseling Office or by clicking here.

Applications are due March 1st.

Check Those Deadlines!

The College Application process is underway and seniors should be applying. There are a lot of steps to navigate so it is important that the process get started.

Each school has different deadlines and requirements for needed items. Be sure to check with each school to verify that you have the correct information. November 1st is a deadline for several schools, so check these out soon!

If you have any questions or need to clear any confusion, please see your counselor as soon as possible!

ICC Early College Dual Credit Welding Program

Are you a high school student interested in a hands-on career in welding? Illinois Central College (ICC) is excited to offer an Early College program designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to become an entry-level welder. This program runs from August 18, 2025, to May 15, 2026, and is perfect for those looking to enter the manufacturing field or pursue a union apprenticeship.

Program Overview

Location and Schedule:

• ICC Pekin
  • Morning Class: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM, Monday – Thursday OR
  • Afternoon Class: 11:00 AM – 1:50 PM, Monday – Thursday

What You'll Learn

Participants will work towards earning a Production Welder Certificate through a comprehensive curriculum that covers various welding processes, including:

• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
• Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)

In addition to mastering these techniques, students will gain valuable knowledge in welding theory and blueprint reading, essential skills for any aspiring welder.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a rewarding career in welding, consider enrolling in ICC’s Early College program. This is your chance to learn essential skills, earn certifications, and prepare for a successful future in the manufacturing industry.

For more information about the program, click on this link or talk with your counselor.

Considering Bradley? Check This Out!

Are you a senior considering Bradley University for the fall? Schedule a visit there today! All seniors who attends a scheduled visit before November 22nd will be eligible to receive a $4000 visit grant ($1000 per year). Current high school students who attend Bradley this fall as a full-time first-year student are considered eligible, and it will be added to financial aid packages for enrolling students. Please email Angie Cooksy at acooksy@fsmail.bradley.edu with any questions!

Stir Up Some Culinary Magic at ICC!

Hey future chefs and culinary stars! 🍽️ Are you ready for an exciting opportunity? Mark your calendars for November 21st from 8:45 AM-12:00 PM because the Illinois Central College Culinary Arts Expo is coming your way!

This is a fantastic opportunity - ICC is all about creating a fun and informative day filled with insights into the Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management fields. You'll get to explore impressive Dogwood Hall, meet knowledgeable faculty and enthusiastic students, and gather useful information on scholarships, financial aid, student life, and a seamless enrollment process.

Please let your counselor know if you are interested so we can get you registered. Questions? Reach out to Ashley at Ashley.Berlett@icc.edu or call 309-694-5200.

💰 $500 Up For Grabs to an IVC Student 💰

One IVC student will walk away with $500 in this year's Voice of Democracy Contest sponsored by our local VFW. Students need to create a 3-5 minute oral essay. The competition is open to all IVC students. The winning submission from IVC will move on to the state competition. 

Topic: Is American Today Our Forefathers' Vision?
Grades: 9-12
Top Prize: $500
Second Prize: $200
Due Date: October 31st
For more details: Entry forms may be picked up from any counselor, English teacher or social studies teacher.

Basically students will need to write an essay and then turn it to an audio file. It is actually quite simple. The teachers at the high school use many different programs/app to save audio. Students should ask their English teacher if they are unsure what program to use. The counselors have thumb drives available if needed.

🎉 Shape Your Future Week Success! 🎉

Shape Your Future Week was an absolute hit! We had a fantastic turnout with 29 colleges and schools visiting IVC, and our juniors and seniors took full advantage of the opportunity. A whopping 139 students attended at least one college visit, totaling an impressive 362 students at the presentations.

On average, each college session had 12.5 eager minds ready to learn about their future possibilities. The top crowd-pullers?

1.  ICC
2.  Illinois State
3.  U of I - Urbana/Champaign
4.  Bradley
5.  Iowa State
6.  Augustana & Mizzou

Thanks to everyone who made this week such a success!

ICC Hosts Illinois Regional College Fair

You are invited! Illinois Central College is hosting a college fair on Wednesday, October 16th from 6:00-8:00 PM. The event will be held at the East Peoria Campus CougarPlex. Over 60 in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities will be present to discuss academic programs, financial aid options, the admissions process, and more. For a complete list of colleges attending the event, click here. You can register for the event by clicking this link.

Army ROTC Illinois State Tuition Waiver (ISTW) Scholarship

The Army ROTC is offering a tuition waiver that covers full tuition for students interested in becoming part of the Army ROTC program. To help students explore this opportunity, they will be hosting a combine event on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Camp Lincoln in Springfield. This event will include a fitness test and a short interview to assess eligibility for the scholarship. It is designed for senior students, especially those who have shown an interest in pursuing higher education and leadership opportunities.

The application is due by October 23, 2024, and the flyer attached contains all the necessary details, including the application process, contact information, and the list of schools participating in the program.

This is a fantastic way for them to attend college without the burden of tuition costs.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out: arotc@illinois.edu or (217) 244-1407.

Unlocking the Secrets of College Campuses: Your Ultimate Guide to Campus Visits

Are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of choosing the perfect college? One of the best ways to get a true feel for a school is to visit its campus. But don’t just breeze through—take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and ask plenty of questions. Here’s why slowing down and engaging with both the admission staff and current students can make all the difference.

1. Talk to the Pros: Admission Staff When you first arrive, make sure to chat with the admission staff. These folks are pros at showcasing what makes their school shine. They’ll provide you with all the essential information about programs, facilities, and campus life. Remember, they’re there to highlight the best aspects of the college, so take notes and gather all the details you can.

2. Get the Real Scoop: Current Students While the admission staff can give you the official tour, the real goldmine of information comes from talking to current students. These are the people living the college experience day in and day out. Ask them what they love about their school and what they wish could be better. Their honest opinions will give you a well-rounded view of what to expect.

3. Questions to Ask. Here are some questions to get you started.

WIU Announces No Application Fee for October

Western Illinois University just announced NO APPLICATION FEE for the month of October. If you are considering Western, be sure to apply this month and save yourself some $$! Also check out their Discover Western Preview Days. Visit wiu.edu/visit for more information.

Upcoming Senior Retreat

We are thrilled to announce the upcoming Senior Retreat from November 6-9 at LOMC in Oregon, IL. Here’s what you need to know:

• Introspective Experience: This four-day retreat is nearly 100% led by a group of six seniors, offering a unique and reflective experience.
• Rich History: This marks the 37th retreat, with over 1,000 IVC students participating over the past nineteen years.
• Limited Space: Due to the new retreat center, we can only accommodate 15 guys and 15 girls.
• Cost:  The retreat costs $100. This covers our lodging and meals at the retreat center. If the $100 fee is a concern, partial and full scholarships are available. Please see Mr. Kosinski for more information.
• Action Required: Registration sheets are available from the counselors and are due by October 18th. Space is limited, so act fast! The retreat will fill up long before the 18th.

For any questions, please see Mr. Kosinski.

Let’s make this retreat unforgettable! 🌟

EBSCO Resources for FREE!

Great news! The state of Illinois has established an agreement with EBSCO to provide FREE access to research databases for Illinois schools. our district has now been set up so all teachers, staff, and students have access to the databases. There is a link on the Parent/Student information page of our schools website, or Click Here while on school property.

New to EBSCO?

EBSCO is an online research platform that provides access to a vast collection of academic and scholarly resources. It includes articles from magazines, journals, newspapers, and other publications, making it an excellent too for students working on research projects, papers, and presentations. You can find scholarly articles, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and more!

Becoming a Teacher? Check This Out!

The Golden Apple Scholars teacher preparation and tuition assistance program is now accepting applications for the Class of 2025!

Golden Apple Scholars Receive:

• Up to $23,000 in total financial assistance for college
  
• Extensive classroom teaching experience
• Instruction from award-winning educators and expert partners
• Academic and social-emotional support
• Job placement assistance
• Mentoring in first year of teaching

Click Here for Golden Apple Application and Info

UIUC Program Explorer Tool

Before students apply to U of I, they are encouraged to check out the Program Explorer tool.

For each major at U of I, the Program Explorer tool provides a brief description, what graduates do with the degrees, how much the program costs, graduation and retention rates, related majors, and more.

Students can also take a self-assessment to discover which of the majors relate to their interests, explore majors by Holland type, and compare majors side by side.

Since students are admitted by major at UIUC, this tool is especially important to those applying. Hopefully this tool will help them make an informed decision on prospective major.

Methodist College Open House Events

Methodist College will be hosting a fall Open House on Monday, October 14th and Saturday, November 16th at 9:00 AM for any prospective students and guests. They currently offer the following degrees:

Undergraduate Degree
· Bachelor of Science in Nursing
· Bachelor of Science in Health Science
· Bachelor of Social Work


Certificate
· Gerontology Certificate

Graduate Degree
· Master of Science in Nursing

Click here to register for either of these great events!

NCAA Eligibility Center Information

Interested in playing collegiate athletics? Make sure you know what steps to take to qualify! Click below to access the NCAA Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete for 2024-25.

This document is full of timelines, resources, differences between the different divisions, course requirements, and so much more. If you are interested in playing DI, DII, or DIII athletics, this is DEFINITELY worth a read.

NCAA Eligibility Center Guide

Free Tuition in Illinois?

Are you ready to take your education to the next level without the burden of tuition fees? The Aim High program in Illinois is here to make your college dreams a reality! This incredible initiative offers free tuition to qualifying students, ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of your academic success. Whether you’re a top achiever or a dedicated student with big aspirations, Aim High is designed to support you every step of the way.

This link will explain the program at each of the universities.  It is worth a moment to see if you qualify.

Princess Closet Hours Posted

Homecoming is almost here - don't let the lack of funds stop you from missing the fun this year! Come borrow the complete outfit: Dress, shoes and jewelry.

Bring your student ID - a $25 deposit is required: Refunded at the time of return.

Mondays: 9/16, 9/23 & 9/30 - 5:00pm-7:30pm

Tuesday: 9/24 - 5:00pm-7:30pm
Thursday: 9/19- 5:00pm- 7:30pm

Princess Closet is located in the lower level of Shore Acres Clubhouse. Entrance is on the back side of the building. Email Cari Horack at chorack@ivcschools.com for more information.

IVC Financial Aid Night

Tuesday, September 12th
6:00 p.m. - IVC Library (at 5:30 we will have a condensed version of the Off to College Breakfast)

A representative from the IL Student Assistance Commission will be at IVC to present a program on financial aid and scholarships. This program is very informative, especially for those parents who are new to the college application process. FAFSA will also be introduced. The counselors will have a shortened presentation of what was covered at the Off to College Breakfast the previous Friday.

ISAC Guide to Programs (FREE MONEY!)

This handy guide explains many of the available programs and grants available through ISAC (IL Student Assistance Commission). Explanation of the following programs includes:

• MAP Grant
• IL Veteran Grant
• IL National Guard Grant
• Minority Teacher Scholarship
• Special Ed. Tuition Waiver
• IL Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program
• Nurse Educator Loan Forgiveness Program
• …and more.

Click here for details

Off to College Parent Breakfast Recap

Parents gathered at the Chillicothe Library for an informative college preparation breakfast, where they delved into the college application and admission process. The session covered everything from filling out applications to crucial deadlines and timelines.  Key takeaways included starting early, and seeking support from school counselors and online resources. The importance of college visits was also emphasized, with tips on planning the visit, registering for tours, and engaging with current students and faculty at the college you are visiting. 

To ensure everyone has the opportunity to see the presentation, there will be a 30-minute version of what was presented this morning at Financial Night next Thursday (the 12th) at 5:30 pm in the IVC Library. The Financial Aid presentation will begin at 6:00.

Click here for a PDF version of the presentation.

ACT/SAT Deadlines Approaching

The deadline for the October ACT and SAT is coming up. Any senior who plans to retake either test should sign up ASAP.


To register, students should go to....
SAT - www.collegeboard.org
ACT - actstudent.org


The test is not given at IVC but there are nearby testing centers.

Side note: All juniors will be taking the ICC test in April. The school takes care of that registration.

Calling All Science Students - Student Researcher Program

There is a fantastic program coming up on November 7th for those students interested in the science field. The Ag Lab in Peoria will be hosting a one-day Student Researcher Program for 11th and 12th grade students.

Through the Student Researcher Program, high school students will gain hands-on experience with some of the same research techniques used daily by career researchers at the lab. By the end of the day, students will have rotated through three different laboratories, interacted closely with research staff and gained a deeper understanding of how the multi-disciplinary teams at NCAUR solve research puzzles of national importance, one piece at a time.

Students who have interest in the following fields would benefit from attending this one-day program: Biology, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Entomology, Food Technology, Genetics, Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, Physical Science, Plant Pathology, and Plant Physiology.

Sept 25: Deadline for the application packet to be completed and turned in to Mr. Kosinski
Nov 7: Student Researcher Day at the USDA ARS NCAUR (AG Lab)

Click here for the application

22 Ways Parents Can Help (and Hurt) The College Application Process

Navigating the college application process can feel like a high-stakes game, and parents often play a crucial role in their child’s journey. But did you know that your involvement can either be a game-changer or a stumbling block? In “22 Ways Parents Can Help (and Hurt) The College Application Process,” the article breaks down the do’s and don’ts to ensure you’re setting your student up for success. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the college admissions scene, this guide will help you strike the perfect balance between support and independence.

How to Manage the Stress of College Admission

Good video for parents of seniors to watch. College acceptance or rejection time can be a period of high stress for families so author Jennifer Wallace joins TODAY to share how families can navigate the extreme pressure high schoolers feel today.

College Tour App & Show

The College Tour is a TV series brought to you by Emmy-nominated and multi-award-winning producers. The series tells the story of colleges and universities around the world.​

Each episode of The College Tour will focus on a single college or university. Accompanying each episode is a series of shorter videos that tackle many of the FAQs with regard to each college.
​
From campus life, academics, housing, sports, activities, and much more… each student driven segment will give young people an inside look at what it’s truly like being a student at the featured college or university.

Download the app for a truly one-of-a-kind series featuring colleges and universities in a way they have never been seen before!

Area schools featured so far include:
-- University of Illinois-Champaign
-- University of Illinois-Chicago
-- University of Missouri
-- Iowa State University
-- Illinois State University
-- Illinois Wesleyan University

-- University of Northern Iowa

-- Columbia College Chicago

-- Valparaiso University

-- Grand Canyon University

You may also click this link to access the episodes.

Freshman Class Meeting

We are excited to share that our high school counselors recently met with all freshmen students to discuss important aspects of their high school journey. This meeting was designed to help students transition smoothly into high school by providing them with valuable information and resources. During the meeting, counselors covered topics such as:

-- who the counselors are,
-- the different reasons a freshman may want to chat,
-- where our office are located,
-- how to go about requesting to see us,
-- confidentiality,
-- living up to their awesomeness,
-- getting involved,
-- and who their class advisors are.

We encourage you to continue the conversation at home. Ask your child about what they learned during the meeting, and discuss their interests, goals, and any concerns they may have.

 
​Additionally, if you have any questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact the school counseling office. We are here to support both you and your child during this critical transition period. Thank you for your continued support.

CLICK HERE FOR PRESENTATION

Parents - Off to College Breakfast Reminder

Linking Common App to Naviance

If you are a senior using the Common App, you will need to link your account to Naviance for us to send all Counselor Documents as well as Teacher Recommendations. Below are the steps to link the two:

    1.  Log onto your Naviance account. 

        *If you do not know the password, you can log in using Clever.*
    2.  Click on COLLEGES --> COLLEGES I'M APPLYING TO.
    3.  Click on MATCH ACCOUNTS.
    4.  Enter your Common App Email address and click on MATCH ACCOUNTS.
    5.  You are done :)

Stop by the Student Services office with any questions.

🎓 Senior Class Meeting Recap!

Our recent class meeting was all about exploring the exciting paths that lie ahead after high school. From diving deep into the college selection process to discussing opportunities in the military, trade schools, and specialty programs, we covered it all!

Remember to check out the Off to College Guide you received at the meeting. It’s packed with valuable insights and, along with the PDF copy of the presentation, will help students and parents navigate the journey ahead.

Got questions? Your counselors are here to help! Reach out anytime. 🚀

Let’s make your future bright! 🌟

Calling All Future Social Workers and Teachers!

💙 Be the Change You Wish to See! 💙 Step into the world of compassion and advocacy at Future Social Worker Visit Day at WIU! Learn how you can make a difference in your community, connect with experienced social workers, and explore WIU's comprehensive social work program. Your path to empowering others and creating positive change begins now! Join the IVC Counselors on this visit.

🌟 Inspire the Next Generation! 🌟 Spend the day at WIU for Future Teachers Visit Day! Discover the rewarding path of shaping young minds and making a lasting impact. Meet passionate educators, explore WIU's innovative teaching programs, and get a glimpse into your future classroom. Your journey to becoming an inspiring teacher starts here!

Provided there is enough interest, the counselors will be chaperoning the Social Work Visit Day. Students would be on their own to attend the Future Teacher Day.  Sign up for the Social Work Field Trip in the counseling office.

Stand Out College Prep Step-by-Step Guides

To help you navigate the college application process smoothly, Stand Out College Prep has complied step-by-step guides on two frequently used websites: The Common Application and the FAFSA.

The Common App is a central platform used by many colleges and universities, allowing you to apply to multiple institutions with a single application. This link will break down the nuances of the Common App and help ensure your information is accurate and complete.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a critical form for securing financial aid for college. Completing the FAFSA accurately can significantly impact your eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. This link is essential for navigating the often daunting task of applying for financial aid.

Discover Illinois Colleges with No Application Fee

Applying to college can be an exciting yet daunting process, especially when considering the costs involved. Fortunately, many colleges in Illinois are making it easier for prospective students by waiving application fees. Here is a list of Illinois colleges that do not charge an application fee, helping you save money while exploring your educational options. 

Augustana College
Aurora University
Bradley University
Eastern Illinois University
Elmhurst College
Eureka College

Discover Illinois Schools - Your Path to Excellence

Welcome to the vibrant world of the state universities in Illinois!  This comprehensive guide equips you with the latest insights, ensuring you’re well-prepared to choose the college that is right for you. From admission requirements to campus life, we’ve got you covered.

The 12 Reasons document is the brand new admissions guide that provides you with current information about each state university.

The 2022-23 At-A-Glance offer a look at all the college majors at the universities. Although the document is no longer published, this one from two years ago will still be mostly accurate. Definitely a great starting point when looking at college majors.

Click on the guide to access.

2024-25 Off to College Guide

Congratulations seniors. We're thrilled to announce the release of our brand-new Off to College Guide! 

Whether you're a student gearing up for your first semester next fall or a parent preparing to support your college-bound child, this guide is packed with essential tips, resources, and a sprinkle of inspiration to make the search smooth and successful. Get ready to embark on this exciting journey with confidence and ease. 

Let's make this college search experience unforgettable! Your future starts now!

Click here for the Guide

Agriculture, Diesel, and Horticulture Showcase

 
Students are invited to explore careers at the Illinois Central College Agriculture, Diesel, and Horticulture Showcase on Friday, September 13, 8:30 am – 2:00 pm on the ICC East Peoria Campus.

This FREE event is an opportunity for students to explore high-demand careers in the high-tech agriculture, diesel-powered equipment, and horticulture industries. They will participate in hands-on activities showcasing the latest innovations and technologies, browse equipment displays from industry partners, and have the opportunity to ask employers questions about careers in their industries. Lunch will be provided.

Sign up in the Counseling Office by August 30th. See the counselors with any questions.

Coming Soon - Shape Your Future Week

Seniors - Interested in the Navy?

The Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Scholarship Program offers students the opportunity to earn their degree while receiving naval training and financial benefits. This program is a great choice for college bound students wishing to enlist in the Navy. Click the links below for more information.

NROTC Flyer 2025

NROTC Digital Brochure

Upcoming Parent Workshops

SENIORS: What is Parchment?

Parchment is the electronic transcript site that makes sending transcripts simple. It is completely free for all students currently in high school. The best part...it takes about 2 minutes to go on the site and request a transcript. The counselors then click an approve button and the colleges have the transcript. It is the only way that transcripts will be sent to colleges, universities, NCAA, etc.

Reminder to seniors: You must register using the email that was sent to your school email from Parchment. Registration takes about 5-10 minutes but will only need to be done once. After you are registered, ordering transcripts couldn't be simpler.

Note to Parents: The student must sign up for Parchment using the link to his/her school email address. Any accounts using other email addresses will not work because the account will not be properly linked to our school. Please encourage the students to set up the account as soon as possible. It is the only way transcripts will be sent.

Online Dual Credit ICC Class Help

Attention students taking an online ICC class:

This first link helps you find your ICC username, log into your ICC email, and log into your eServices (MyICC) account. There is a Help Desk phone number listed at the top if you have any issues or need a password reset.
This second link details answers to the frequently asked questions we get each semester.

Please note that ICC classes begin on August 19th. I would strongly encourage you to be sure you can access your classes before this date.

Do you know what IVC has to offer?

Getting Involved At IVC

IVC has dozens of sports, clubs, groups, and activities for students of all ages and interests. Check out the list to see many of the great options IVC has to offer!

If you have questions about any sport, club or activity, contact a counselor. We can point you in the right direction.