Waterloo, IL – Illinois students planning to attend college during the 2026–2027 academic year may now apply for a new round of scholarships announced Monday by the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association.
According to the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, more than $58,000 in college scholarships will be awarded statewide to eligible Illinois residents pursuing higher education. The scholarships may be used toward tuition, books, and fees and are open to students attending certified institutions of higher learning, including approved online programs.
Each county sheriff may award a local scholarship as part of the statewide program. In Monroe County, Sheriff Neal Rohlfing will award one $500 scholarship to a qualifying applicant who resides permanently in the county.
The program is open to all eligible applicants with no restrictions based on race, age, creed, color, sex, or national origin. However, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a permanent Illinois resident
- Be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2026–2027 school year, excluding the summer session
Applications are now available through local sheriff’s offices or online via the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association website. Students must complete the application, answer the required essay question, and submit all materials to the sheriff’s office in their county of permanent residence.
Completed applications must be postmarked by Friday, March 13, 2026.
Students seeking additional guidance are encouraged to contact their local sheriff’s office, high school advising center, college financial aid office, or the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association directly. A directory of sheriff’s offices is available on the ISA website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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