Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Program Frequently Asked Questions
For those currently working in the early childhood field
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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 those enrolled at least part-time at MCC, currently taking an ECE class, and pursuing a certificate or degree in ECE
- Do I need to apply for the MCC ECACE Grant?
No! If you have declared that you are working toward an Early Childhood Education program at MCC (ECE Level II Certificate, ECE Level III Certificate, or ECE Associate in Applied Science) and are currently taking an Early Childhood Education course, you automatically qualify. After the semester begins, you will receive an email informing you of the award with instructions on how to accept the funds. Grant funds will not be applied to your account without accepting.
- Will the MCC ECACE Grant pay for everything?
MCC ECACE Grant funds may be limited for Spring 2024. The ECACE Grant may cover tuition, Early Childhood Education textbooks, and a laptop (after application). Priority will be given to students who are registered by December 8, 2023. Students are responsible for fees and non-ECE textbooks.
- Do I need to pay taxes on the money received from the grant?
No, there are no tax implications.
- Do I need to pay back money received from the grant?
No, grant funds are awarded outright and are not loans.
- When will I receive an email with directions on how to accept MCC ECACE Grant?
If you have declared that you are working toward an Early Childhood Education program at MCC, you will receive an email after the semester begins.
- Is there a minimum number of classes I need to take?
No, you can take as many or as few classes as you choose.
- Do I need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the MCC ECACE Grant?
No. While we always encourage you to complete the application for other potential funding, it is not necessary to qualify for the MCC ECACE Grant.
- I’m only taking a general education course this semester. Do I qualify for the MCC ECACE Grant?
Unfortunately, no. As of Spring 2024 the MCC ECACE Grant only covers Early Childhood Education classes.
- Who should I contact for more information?
Jean Gaspari, ECACE Coach, at (815) 479-7829 or jgaspari@mchenry.edu
For more information about ECACE, visit www.ecace.org and www.isac.org/ECACEscholarship