State Benefit·Illinois·🎓Education & Training

Illinois Deceased, Disabled, and MIA/POW Veterans' Dependents Scholarship

Tuition and fees at Illinois public colleges for dependents of veterans who are POW, MIA, deceased, or 100% disabled.

Verified May 12, 2026againstveterans.illinois.gov

Who qualifies

SpousesSurvivorsDependents
  • Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
  • Illinois residency

How to apply

Up to 4 years tuition-free

Apply through the official Illinois agency.

Open application

Details

Eligibility

Dependent (spouse; natural child; stepchild under 18 at time of marriage; adopted child under 18 at time of adoption; or minor under 18 under court-ordered guardianship) of an Illinois veteran who is/was a POW, declared MIA, rated 100% permanent and total service-connected disabled (including IU), or whose death was ruled service-connected by the USDVA. The veteran must have been an Illinois resident at the time of entering active duty, became a resident within 6 months after entering, OR maintained 15+ consecutive years of Illinois residency after entering active duty.

Covers

Full tuition and mandatory fees at Illinois state-supported colleges and universities. Equivalent to 4 years of full-time enrollment (including summer terms); maximum of 120 eligibility points. Benefit expires 12 years from initial enrollment.

How to apply

Apply online at studentportal.isac.org with DD-214, USDVA award letter, proof of enrollment, and residency documentation.

Always confirm current rates and rules with the Illinois state agency before applying.

Other Illinois Education & Training

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