Grant Program for Dependents of Correctional Officers

Spouses or children of Illinois Department of Corrections officers who were killed or became at least 90 percent disabled in the line of duty may be eligible for the Grant Program for Dependents of Correctional Officers. This grant provides assistance toward tuition and mandatory fees at ISAC-approved Illinois colleges. Applicants do not need to be Illinois residents at the time of enrollment to receive this grant. Recipients may receive the equivalent of eight semesters or 12 quarters of assistance.

Eligibility

To be eligible, an applicant must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen
• Be enrolled on at least a half-time basis at an ISAC-approved Illinois 2- or 4-year college
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress as established by the applicant’s college
• Not be in default on any student loan, nor owe a refund on any state or federal grant
• Be the spouse, natural child, legally adopted child, or any child in the legal custody of the correctional officer at the time of death or disability

How to Apply

Applications for this grant are available at College Zone, at high school guidance counselors’ office, and at colleges’ financial aid offices.

How Funds Are Disbursed

ISAC works with the college to disburse funds for this program. The college certifies student eligibility and then submits a payment request on behalf of the student. It may take up to eight weeks after the date that ISAC processes the payment request before funds are received at the college.

Depending on the college, students may be responsible for payment until program funds are received. Qualified applicants who are awaiting receipt of funds from this program should contact the Financial Aid Office or Business Office to determine the college's policy.

Click here to download the Grant Program for Dependents of Correctional Officers application.

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