If I donate to the IEF, where does my donation go?

Your donations directly benefit our students who are facing the growing challenge of meeting the escalating costs of higher education.  Donations under $300,000 are pooled into our Signature Scholarship Fund which exclusively finances scholarships for Illinois students enrolled in community colleges.  These “Signature Scholarships” may be used for students on two types of educational tracks: those who want to earn an Associate’s degree or certificate before entering the workforce and those who intend to pursue an Associate’s degree and transfer directly into a Bachelor’s degree program at a public or private Illinois college or university.

Contributions over $300,000 allow the donor to customize a scholarship program.

How much does it cost to send a student to community college in Illinois?

For students enrolling in Illinois community colleges in 2006-2007, the average cost of tuition and fees was $2,465.  On average, that cost increases approximately 8% per year.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The IEF is a tax-exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Service’s code.  Donors’ contributions are fully tax-deductible.