Students have until 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8 to apply for an Illinois Valley Community College Foundation Scholarship, which could be worth from $500 to $4,500.

Foundation scholarships are made possible by alumni and donors who see potential in IVCC students, and awards are presented each academic year.

Students who are chosen for scholarships will be notified during the summer, according to information on the Foundation website.

Donna Swiskoski, administrative assistant in the Foundation office, said it is important to note that multiple scholarships may be awarded to one student and, for the first time this year, students do not have to fill out the FAFSA to receive a scholarship.

The scholarship application consists of three short answer questions. Students are asked about their goals, community involvement, financial needs, and any special living circumstances. The rest of the application consists of general information which takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Swiskoski alongside Susan Monroe, who works with donors, provided some tips for students who want an opportunity at scholarships.

“The scholarship process can be intimidating and it can be competitive,” Swiskoski says.

When looking for a place to start, the IVCC Writing and Tutoring Center is recommended.

Students should note all parts of their life. For example, specific scholarships are offered for applicants who are veterans, single parents, who have disabilities or even who are softball players.

Swiskoski says, “The reason you’re answering all those questions is so those donors know who you are.”

The Foundation Scholarship gives the whole student body a chance to get help paying for college.

Swiskoski adds, “We want to help students succeed here.”

While not all students are awarded a scholarship, more than $400,000 is awarded each year to around 250 students.

For any questions or information regarding the Foundation Scholarships, Swiskoski can be found in the IVCC Foundation Office (C102 by the Cyber Cafe), by email at [email protected] or by calling (815)224-0551.

Students who want to fill out the Foundation Scholarship application can visit https://www.ivcc.edu/foundation/scholarship-listing.php