Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

Interested in Graduate Assistantships?

There is one, university-wide, online application method for assistantships. Search and
apply for assistantships at the Illinois State University Career Opportunities Web site.

The typical undergraduate grants and scholarships that were available from the federal government and which were awarded following completion of the FAFSA are not available to graduate students.

However, graduate students are eligible for other types of funding. Any student who intends to seek funding for their graduate program should obtain and complete a FAFSA form as a part of the graduate school application process. Applications which have been received by the Financial Aid Office will automatically be processed if you are admitted.

Federal Loan Programs

There are two loan programs

  • Federal Direct Subsidized Loans – the federal government pays the interest on your loan.
  • Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans – low interest loans which you pay back without help from the federal government.

In order to find out if you qualify for either of these loan programs, complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

State Scholarship Programs

There are four types of scholarship programs funded by the State of Illinois. Only SLP majors who plan to complete teacher certification requirements prior to graduation are eligible.

To apply for any of these programs, complete the FAFSA form if you have not done so already, and call ISAC: Illinois Student Assistance Commission for applications. The toll-free number is: (800) 899-4722.

Illinois State Grants and Scholarships

There are several scholarships programs funded by Illinois State or through Illinois State for graduate students. Information about eligibility and application procedures can be found in the graduate catalog.

Graduate Assistantships

A limited number of assistantships are available through the department of Speech Pathology and Audiology. Assistantships cover tuition expenses and provide a monthly stipend for one year. In exchange, students work in the department approximately 15-20 hours per week. Duties are assigned by the department chairperson. Any student with an admitting GPA of 3.2 or higher may apply.

Assistantships are also available through other, non-academic departments such as the Office of Student Life, The Graduate School, Academic Advisement, etc. Graduate students from any department may apply for these positions which are sometimes limited to one year but may often cover all on-campus semesters.

There is one, university-wide, online application method for assistantships. Search and apply for assistantships at the Illinois State University Career Opportunities Web site.

Small Grants and Scholarships

Many philanthropic organizations such as the Elks, Lions, and Shriners, and many business and health care groups and/or organizations offer small grants and scholarships to certain groups of students meeting specific criteria. To do a search for these grants and scholarships, use the computer program in the Financial Aid Office (231 Fell Hall).

Additional Scholarships for 2008

The Financial Aid Office is available to help qualified students obtain the maximum amount of assistance they are eligible to receive. They are located on the second floor of Fell Hall. Contact your financial aid counselor for more information.