• helpkids@elkscare.org

  • 800-272-0074

Illinois Elks Children's Care Corporation

College Scholarship Opportunities



At Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation, we are committed to supporting college students who are pursuing careers in certain fields of therapy and special education. Our scholarships are designed to help future professionals make a lasting difference in the lives of children and individuals with special needs.

Below, you'll find key information about our scholarship program, including eligibility, required materials, and how applications are evaluated.

To apply, please access the application at the links below and follow the instructions provided.

Important Note: Scholarship applications will be available only from December 1st until March 6th. Please be sure to download and print the application before the deadline. After March 6th, the application will no longer be accessible.


General Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all the following requirements:

  • Permanent resident of Illinois
  • Enrolled as a full-time student for the upcoming fall semester
  • Provide Illinois and federal tax information
  • Submit:
    • Personal statement
    • Three academic reference letters
    • Three non-academic reference letters
    • Official transcripts
  • Grade level is based on your academic status in the upcoming fall semester, not at the time of application
  • Students may only receive one scholarship per academic year


Eligible Fields of Study

Field Who Can Apply Degree/Program
Physical or Occupational Therapy College Freshmen – 2nd-Year Graduate Students PT or OT major
PT or OT Assistant Programs College Freshmen – Sophomores Enrolled in PT/OT Assistant program
Speech-Language Pathology College Seniors & Graduate Students SLP degree
Special Education College Juniors, Seniors & Graduate Students Special Education major


How Applications Are Scored

  • 40% – Academic Performance
  • 30% – Financial Need
  • 30% – Personality & Desire (your personal statement and reference letters play in important role in this category)


Application Access

Applications Available: December 1 – March 6

Click below to download the application. Be sure to print and complete before the deadline.

• PHYSICAL OR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY MAJORS APPLICATION
The application is now closed for this year's scholarship. The 2026-2027 application process will begin December 1, 2025.

• PHYSICAL OR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT APPLICATION
The application is now closed for this year's scholarship. The 2026-2027 application process will begin December 1, 2025.

• LYDIA MILLER SPECIAL EDUCATION MAJOR SCHOLARSHIP
The application is now closed for this year's scholarship. The 2026-2027 application process will begin December 1, 2025.

• SPEECH PATHOLOGY SCHOLARSHIP
The application is now closed for this year's scholarship. The 2026-2027 application process will begin December 1, 2025.

Need Help or Have Questions?

Please contact our office at:
Email: helpkids@elkscare.org   Phone: 217-483-3020

Or visit your campus financial aid or guidance office for additional assistance.