Financial Package
Offering a generous financial package to every student, the Stevenson Center is an extraordinary value for development professionals seeking a master’s degree.
Every student receives:
- A full tuition waiver.
- A paid graduate assistantship during your first academic year.
- A stipend throughout your field experience.
Total financial support for Fellows is worth at least $45,300 and up to $64,200.
100% Two-Year Tuition Waiver
Year 1: Graduate assistantships include a full waiver of all tuition charges during that semester and the following summer. Graduate assistants must pay all student, health insurance, and other fees, as do other graduate students at Illinois State University.
Year 2: Students also receive a full tuition waiver during their professional practice experience.
Over a two-year period of participation in the ACED Sequence, tuition waivers are worth up to $32,682.
Assistantships
Graduate assistants currently receive a stipend of $973-1,060 per month during the fall and spring semesters only. Graduate assistants work up to 20 hours per week in exchange for these awards. Some assistantships involve work in an academic department, while others require work with community or campus partner organizations.
Professional Practice
Fellows receive an increased monthly stipend during their second-year internship (totaling $21,692 for 2020-2021 placements).
Out of Pocket Expenses
While tuition is covered by the tuition waiver, costs for student health insurance and student fees are charged to the student. The university's student health insurance plan is rated 'platinum'--the highest level possible--under the Affordable Care Act! Learn more on the Student Health Services website. Fellows who select student health insurance are eligible to have the costs reimbursed for fall and spring semesters (less any applicable taxes).
With or without financial assistance, students are responsible for payment of fees and all other expenses, including books, housing, food, and other typical living expenses. The Financial Aid Office provides estimates of these costs. Applicants are also welcome to ask current and recent students about the relative costs of living in central Illinois and internship placement sites.
For additional financial aid, please contact Illinois State University’s Financial Aid Office.