Teachers of Illinois Scholarship Program

About this scholarship

The Teachers of Illinois Scholarship Program helps eligible Illinois residents prepare to teach in underserved public-school districts. The 2026–27 application is open, and applicants seeking priority consideration must submit both the signed program application and the FAFSA by September 18, 2026. Awards may cover up to the student’s total cost of attendance after applicable Illinois MAP Grant funds, but funding depends on annual state appropriations and may not reach every qualified applicant. Support can continue for as many as eight semesters or 12 quarters. Applicants must have attended a qualifying Illinois public-school district at some point from kindergarten through grade 12, hold at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA, and enroll at least half time at an approved Illinois college in an eligible teacher-preparation pathway. The program also serves already licensed teachers pursuing an additional endorsement or a relevant master’s degree. A complete application includes the program form, FAFSA, and Teaching Agreement/Promissory Note. Recipients commit to teach in an eligible Illinois district with above-average teacher vacancies. If that teaching commitment is not fulfilled, the scholarship becomes a loan that must be repaid with interest. ISAC currently states that undocumented students cannot receive 2026–27 funding following a July 2026 federal court ruling; applicants should monitor the official page for legal or eligibility updates.

Eligibility

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen and an Illinois resident
• Be a high-school graduate or hold a State of Illinois High School Diploma
• Have attended a qualifying Illinois public-school district at some point in kindergarten through grade 12
• Enroll or be accepted at least half time at a qualified Illinois institution
• Pursue an eligible teacher-licensure program, additional teaching endorsement, or qualifying master’s degree
• Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 and maintain satisfactory academic progress
• Submit the Teachers of Illinois application, FAFSA, and Teaching Agreement/Promissory Note
• Agree to complete the required teaching service in an eligible underserved Illinois school district or repay the award with interest
• Not receive SETTW or Golden Apple tuition assistance for the same term