State Aid
MAP
MAP is awarded by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) to residents of Illinois. Students automatically apply for the MAP grant by submitting the FAFSA. MAP can only be used to pay tuition and certain fees. MAP grants are contingent on state funding, so it is very important to apply for financial aid early.
ECACE
The Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Scholarship (ECACE) was created to address the shortage of qualified early childhood educators and build a strong, well-prepared workforce by encouraging those who want to further their education. The scholarship helps pay the cost of attendance for an academic year up to $7,500 for students attending eligible 2- and 4-year public and non-profit private colleges in Illinois. Recipients are expected to continue working or return to work in the early childhood care and education field in Illinois after completing their studies.
PATH Grant
The PATH Grant was created to address the shortage of workers in the healthcare industry that was exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This grant creates, supports and expands the opportunities of individuals in nursing and other select healthcare pathways by giving individuals the opportunity to earn credentials and degrees to enter or advance in their careers in the healthcare industry.