About the IEF

The Illinois Education Foundation was founded on and is guided by one simple principle: No matter what challenges they may be facing, every student who is ready to work hard can ultimately reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.

The IEF seeks to broaden opportunities available to Illinois high school graduates by providing last-dollar community college scholarships to low-income, high-potential students. The IEF combines financial assistance with a comprehensive set of academic support services, such as tutoring and mentoring, to enable more students to succeed in community college programs. After achieving their Associate’s Degrees, IEF students are prepared to either pursue their B.A.’s, or directly enter the Illinois workforce.

The IEF targets students who cannot afford or are not yet academically prepared for four-year universities. By harnessing the power of the community college system in Illinois, the IEF is providing a critical option for students who want to further their educational and personal development.

Co-founded by a group of social entrepreneurs as a public/private partnership, the IEF works with government, business and educational leaders to identify donors who are interested in helping Illinois students to help themselves. By empowering individuals through higher education, the IEF is increasing the quality and readiness of the Illinois workforce, and contributing to a more robust state economy.

We invite you to learn more about our scholarship programs, how you can get involved, or how to apply for a scholarship.