The Daily Eastern News reported approximately 1,477 students will receive scholarships from the Monetary Award Program grant for the Fall 2012 to Spring 2013 school year.

Unfortunately for students who did not apply for Free Application for Federal Student Aid before March 13, those students will not receive MAP grants for the upcoming school year. 

Monica Ganshirt, a junior special education major, said she was still able to receive the grant because her mom applies for financial aid early in the year, but she also said she thinks the situation for other students is unfair. 

“I think (the state of Illinois) should give it out,” Ganshirt said. 

Casey Hughes, a junior general studies major, said she also receives the grant and applied early for the grant. 

“As soon as I get my taxes done, I do all my financial aid stuff,” Hughes said. “It’s just easier.”

Hughes said she would still be able to attend college if she did not receive the grant, but she would have to take out more student loans in order to fill in the gaps. 

“I think it’s sad because it is really hard to get a job without a degree,” Hughes said.  

Ryan Repking, a senior education major, said he is relying on the grant to attend school next semester.

 “It’s disappointing if you didn’t register by that date,” Repking said. 

Barbara Miller, a graduate student, said she was not surprised by the news of the shortened deadline for the grant.  

“The state of Illinois is in a bad position so it can’t pay its bills,” Miller said. 

Despite the current economic situation within the state, Miller said Illinois should focus more of its budget and resources on education and human services.

Sean Callihan, a senior special education major, said he does not receive financial aid or MAP grants, but his younger brother who attends private school does. 

Callihan said it would be much harder for his brother to attend school if he did not receive the MAP grant. 

Callihan said he was a under the impression the state of Illinois would extend the deadline after the state reevaluated their financial state. 

Glenn Herring, a graduate student, said he applied for financial aid as a part of his graduate assistantship.

“Illinois doesn’t see it as mismanaging, they see it as appropriate,” Herring said.  “The students are not the focus here.” 

Kathryn Richter can be reached at 581-2812 or kjrichter@eiu.edu.