Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project Grant

Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Illinois Community College Board
Amount: Up to US $150,000
Last Updated: December 04, 2025

Summary

The Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project Grant, offered by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance dual credit opportunities across Illinois. With a total funding of $2.6 million available, this grant supports community colleges in improving access and equity for historically underserved students. By encouraging dual credit participation, the initiative seeks to boost student enrollment and success, ultimately contributing to higher postsecondary attainment and better educational outcomes for all.

Overview

Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project Grant The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) invites community colleges to apply for the Access and Equity in Dual Credit Project Grant. All Illinois community colleges are eligible to apply for this Notice of Funding Opportunity. ICCB will fund a maximum of $2,600,000 to selected community colleges to incentivize the enhancement, expansion and support of dual credit in the state. The maximum award is $150,000. Background and Purpose Research has consistently demonstrated the positive impact of dual credit participation on student enrollment, persistence, and degree completion. Notably, the number of college credits earned through dual credit coursework is directly correlated with improved educational outcomes. Students who complete at least one semester of college credit while in high school not only save time and money but also position themselves more competitively for long-term academic and career success. From a policy standpoint, enabling more students to complete a full semester of dual credit is a strategic and cost-effective approach to accelerating postsecondary attainment and achieving key momentum milestones. Furthermore, when dual credit opportunities are made more accessible— particularly to historically underserved student populations—all students benefit from the increased equity, readiness, and opportunity such programs provide. The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) invites community colleges to apply for the FY26 Access and Equity in Dual Credit (AEDC) Project Grant. Now entering its third cycle, the FY26 AEDC grant aligns with the stated outcomes of the amended Dual Credit Quality Act (DCQA), Public Act 104-12, effective June 30, 2025. The purpose of the DCQA is to facilitate improved access and equity in dual credit opportunities across Illinois by accomplishing what is stated in 110 ILCS 27/10. Successful FY26 AEDC grant applications will prioritize the statutory purpose of dual credit by focusing projects on the following required goals: Supporting and improving equitable access to dual credit opportunities and Providing holistic support for student success and persistence.

Eligibility

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