Illinois Nursing Education Scholarship (NES) for Licensed Practical Nursing Students in Illinois

Midwestern Career College provides information for prospective and current Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) students in Illinois about the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) Nursing Education Scholarship (NES). This page summarizes eligibility, key deadlines, award structure for practical nursing certificates, and how to apply via the official ISAC portal.

Illinois Nursing Education Scholarship (NES) for Practical Nursing Students in Illinois

The Nursing Education Scholarship (NES) is a scholarship program administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Students pursuing a Certificate in Practical Nursing at an approved nursing program in Illinois may be eligible to apply if they meet the program requirements.

Official program information and the application portal are maintained by ISAC.
View the official ISAC program page.

Important: The Nursing Education Scholarship is a State of Illinois program. Eligibility, award decisions, and application deadlines are determined by ISAC. This page provides general informational guidance and links to the official source.

What the scholarship supports

The Nursing Education Scholarship may pay a portion of tuition and fee charges associated with a nursing program.

For full-time students, the program may also include a living allowance. The scholarship supports coursework within the nursing curriculum but does not cover prerequisite coursework.

Work commitment after graduation

Recipients of the scholarship are expected to begin employment in Illinois in a qualifying nursing role after graduation and remain employed for a period equivalent to the educational time supported by the scholarship.

If the employment requirement is not fulfilled, repayment terms may apply according to program rules.

Eligibility overview

  • U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
  • Illinois resident for at least one year prior to application
  • Accepted for enrollment or enrolled in an approved Illinois nursing program
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress as determined by your college
  • Not in default on a federal student loan (or have repayment arrangements)
  • Sign the required Application/Work Agreement/Promissory Note

Application timing

The scholarship application window typically opens in early spring each year.

  • Application period generally runs from March 1 through April 30.
  • For the 2026–2027 academic year, the application deadline is April 30, 2026.
  • Applicants must also complete the FAFSA for the same academic year.

Funding duration for practical nursing

Students pursuing a Certificate in Practical Nursing may receive scholarship assistance for up to
one academic year, depending on program eligibility and available funding.
Annual award maximums are determined by the State of Illinois and may vary by academic year.

How to apply

  1. Review scholarship requirements on the official ISAC program page.
  2. Submit the online Nursing Education Scholarship Application/Work Agreement.
  3. Complete the FAFSA for the same academic year.
  4. Monitor your ISAC student portal for application updates or requests for additional information.

The official scholarship application is available through the ISAC student portal during the annual application period.

Source: Illinois Student Assistance Commission – Nursing Education Scholarship Program.

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More About Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)

Editorial source: Midwestern Career College Admissions & Enrollment Team

Page reviewed: March 2026