Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Program
The Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) is a statewide initiative with the goal to upskill the early childhood workforce through scholarships and other supports.
This scholarship covers the full cost of attendance (tuition, fees, books and supplies, transportation, childcare, and other living expenses) for qualified students
ECACE Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
- Currently working in the early childhood field in a licensed facility or license-exempt facility
- Enrolled at least part-time at an ECACE member institution (such as MCC) and pursuing a certificate or degree in Early Childhood Education
- Have a Gateways to Opportunity registry account membership
- US citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Must not be in default on any federal student loans
- Satisfactory academic progress
- See full ECACE scholarship eligibility requirements
To apply for this scholarship, complete the FAFSA and apply through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
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Yes, the ECACE Scholarship is for students currently working in the field of early childhood education while pursuing a certificate or degree in ECE. The ECACE Scholarship requires a separate application and covers up to full cost of attendance.
The ECACE Grant is for students not currently employed in the field, while taking ECE classes. The grant may cover tuition, ECE related textbooks, and a laptop.
- What does the “total cost of attendance” include?
The total cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, books and supplies, transportation, childcare, and other living expenses. ECACE funds can also be used to replace income lost during a leave of absence from work to student teach, or to pay off outstanding balances at participating institutions.
- Once I receive the ECACE scholarship, is the funding guaranteed as I continue my studies?
You must reapply for the scholarship each academic year, but priority will be given to returning students.
- Why do I need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?
The FAFSA helps determine what other aid you might qualify for before the ECACE scholarship is applied. The ECACE scholarship will cover the remaining cost of attendance.
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Please note: August 7, 2023 was the deadline for priority funding consideration, but you can still submit an application after that date.
For more information about ECACE, visit www.ecace.org and www.isac.org/ECACEscholarship