To be eligible for a scholarship, a student must be an Illinois resident, accepted for or enrolled in an allopathic or osteopathic medical school located in Illinois. Students waiting for confirmation of acceptance to medical school may apply. An applicant must demonstrate financial need. The medical school will be asked to attest to the applicant’s good academic standing and financial need. Only students who will pursue one, or a combination of the primary care specialties of family practice, general internal medicine, general pediatrics or obstetrics/gynecology will be eligible for scholarship funds.

Selection preference will be given to applicants who meet the above criteria and who demonstrate 1) a commitment to primary health care, 2) financial need, and 3) prior experience with populations whose health care needs are underserved. When all factors are equal, preference is given to applicants who have resided in Illinois for the longer period of time.

Applications are provided to the financial aid offices of Illinois’ allopathic and osteopathic medical schools. Completed applications must be postmarked no later than May 15. The Department may interview applicants as part of the selection process. Announcement of students selected for awards is scheduled for October. The scholarship will pay tuition, fees (matriculation fees and mandatory insurance) and living expenses of $950 a month for 12 months per year. Scholarship awards are sent to the medical schools for disbursement.