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The number of scholarships made through programs administered by ISAC, as well as the individual dollar amount awarded, are subject to sufficient annual appropriations by the Illinois General Assembly and the Governor.
A scholarship is a type of “gift aid” that rewards a student for grades, athletics, a unique skill, a special talent, financial needs or even a specific career interest. Scholarships do not typically need to be paid back, and some have program requirements and obligations. Scholarship money may be used to pay for tuition, books and/or room and board. Scholarships can come from many different sources, such as colleges, the government, or different public or private organizations (such as a workplace, church or not-for-profit group.) When looking for scholarships, don’t stop with just one search; new scholarships are created all the time.
Illinois Scholarship Programs
Some of the scholarships offered by the State of Illinois include:
Many other scholarships are available, as well. The Internet is a great resource for scholarship information and applications. The list below offers some places to start. But remember to watch out for financial aid scams.
In addition to the Internet, scholarship books in your library's reference section also provide information on various scholarships. When using books, be sure to check the publication dates to make sure the information provided is valid and current. Also, contact colleges as they may offer institutional scholarships that may not be found anywhere else.
Every scholarship program - including those funded by the federal or state government, colleges, or other organizations - has its own unique awarding and processing cycle. If a student plans to use funds from a scholarship to pay a balance owed the college, but those funds are not received prior to the scheduled due date(s), it is the student's responsibility to work with the appropriate office at the college to make satisfactory arrangements.
While some colleges may agree to temporarily postpone due dates (sometimes for a fee) until funds are received, others might require that the student make a full or partial payment by the established due date. If, once received, the scholarship funds are more than the remaining balance due to the college, the student may receive the excess funds to reimburse out-of-pocket expenses or to apply toward other education-related costs. Students who are uncertain of the college's policy regarding anticipated financial assistance should contact their Financial Aid Office for clarification.
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