Nursing Scholarships

Illinois College and Memorial Health have joined forces to provide aspiring students with nursing scholarships. 

What nursing scholarships are available? 

Generous scholarships are just one reason US News and World Report ranks Illinois College the #1 Best Value in the Midwest. As an IC+MH Scholar, you could qualify for up to an additional $5,000 nursing scholarship per year while earning your BSN degree.  To qualify, 

  • Submit your Illinois College application before November 30 for priority consideration
  • Typically, strong candidates will have a:
    • 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
    • 1100 SAT or 22 ACT
  • Must reside in or attend school in the Heritage area, which includes the following Illinois counties: Adams, Bond, Brown, Calhoun, Cass, Champaign, Christian, Clinton, DeWitt, Fayette, Fulton, Greene, Hancock, Henderson, Jersey, Knox, Logan, Macon, Macoupin, Madison, Mason, McDonough, McLean, Menard, Monroe, Montgomery, Morgan, Moultrie, Peoria, Piatt, Pike, Sangamon, Schuyler, Scott, Shelby, St. Clair, Tazewell, Warren
  • No additional scholarship application required
  • 50 scholarships awarded annually
  • While IC is test-optional in admission, a test score is required to qualify for this scholarship
  • The scholarship is renewable for up to eight semesters of study toward your nursing degree (BSN)

What other financial aid is available for nursing students? 

Additional funding is available for all nursing students through the IC Advantage Plus program, which includes a minimum of $20,000 in scholarships per year and our commitment to meet 100% of need for Illinois residents with a 3.0 GPA. There is no separate application process; just submit your application for admission and your FAFSA, and we'll take care of the rest! 

Who do I contact with questions about nursing scholarships? 

Contact Anna Kluemke (anna.kluemke@ic.edu | 217.245.3647), Nursing Admissions Counselor, to learn more. 

Why should I earn a BSN instead of going to a community college? 

An associate degree in nursing typically takes 2-3 years, while earning a bachelor's degree from IC will take four years. During those four years, you'll build professional skills that lead to career advancement. Hospitals and health care systems often prefer the BSN because it leads to better patient outcomes, stronger communication skills, and graduates who are better prepared to advocate for their patients. 

At IC, you can expand your nursing education through short-term study abroad through our BreakAway program.  Spend a week or two with your classmates hiking in Patagonia, studying healthcare in Cuba, or exploring coffee and culture in Hawaii — all for credit that counts toward graduation requirements.

Additionally, students who study nursing at Illinois College can participate as student-athletes, take on campus leadership roles, engage in Greek life, and join other student organizations. 

Will I graduate from nursing school in four years? 

IC's Finish in 4 guarantee means we'll help you stay on track and graduate on time, or we'll cover the cost of your remaining classes. Just one more way you can be sure you're getting the best value for your degree. 

Learn more about the BSN Degree at Illinois College and prepare to Graduate READY as a future leader in the dynamic field of nursing.