# Early Childhood Educators Scholarship

> Amount varies from Community Foundation of Northern Illinois. Deadline Feb 1, 2027.

- Edition: Data verified Nov 2026 · CollegesRef 2026–27 edition
- Page: https://www.collegesref.com/scholarships/early-childhood-educators-scholarship
- Provider: Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (Foundation)
- Award: Amount varies
- Deadline: Deadline Feb 1, 2027
- State list: https://www.collegesref.com/scholarships/state/il
- Official page: https://cfnil.org/students/scholarships
- Last verified by CollegesRef: Nov 6, 2026

## About this scholarship

The Early Childhood Educators Scholarship is a program administered by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois. This scholarship is specifically designed for non-traditional students who are pursuing a degree or credential in early childhood education. It aims to support individuals returning to school or entering the field later in life to help cover their educational expenses, such as tuition and fees. 

To apply, candidates must complete the foundation's online universal application. This single application automatically matches students with all opportunities for which they qualify based on their answers to background questions. While the provider does not directly require the FAFSA, applicants are generally encouraged to complete federal and state financial aid forms to demonstrate financial need if applicable. The application cycle for this program runs during the winter, with the submission window open from Dec. 1st to Feb. 1st.

## Who can apply

- Residents of: IL
- Education level: Undergraduate, Graduate student
- Open to non-traditional students pursuing early childhood education.

## How to apply

Apply online through the foundation's scholarship portal during the winter application window.

## Related scholarships

- [Vernon “Butch” Gudat Scholarship Fund](https://www.collegesref.com/scholarships/vernon-butch-gudat-scholarship-fund): Amount varies
- [Grayson Adelstein Scholarship](https://www.collegesref.com/scholarships/grayson-adelstein-scholarship): Up to $1,500
- [Kathleen Marian Garrigan Scholarship](https://www.collegesref.com/scholarships/kathleen-marian-garrigan-scholarship): Up to $2,000
- [Bernard (Duke) Gawne Scholarship](https://www.collegesref.com/scholarships/bernard-duke-gawne-scholarship): Up to $4,000

## Explore Illinois

- [Colleges in Illinois](https://www.collegesref.com/state/illinois)
- [Illinois scholarships and grants](https://www.collegesref.com/scholarships/state/il)

Always confirm amounts, rules and deadlines on the official page before applying.