The below FAQ was developed to answer a lot of the questions the NASW-Illinois Chapter was receiving from social work students across the state. As the largest membership association in Illinois advocating on behalf of social workers, consider adding your voice to our efforts and join/renew your NASW membership today.
Illinois Social Work Student FAQ
Can I work as a social worker without a license?
Unlike other states, social work graduates in Illinois MAY work as a social worker while working toward your LSW/LCSW license. During this time, you must be collecting supervision hours and you must identify yourself with a title that makes clear you are a social worker in training.
When can I get my license?
We are strongly encouraging graduating, masters-level social work students to start completing their licensing application now for submission immediately after graduation. Wait times for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) traditionally take longer this time of year, and with closures due to the coronavirus outbreak, the time to process your application may be even longer. By applying as soon as possible, you will be eligible to sit for the ASWB exam as soon as they reopen (currently closed through May 1st--check their site for the latest update).
How can I get help preparing for the exam?
The NASW-Illinois Chapter is hosting our first ever live virtual training of our popular LSW/LCSW Review Course. This 2-day, 4-hour course will cover the format and structure of the LSW/LCSW examination as well as the most current content areas as determined by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) for licensure. Practice questions will be reviewed to illustrate test-taking strategies and reinforce content material. The course also includes 3-month access to a digital version of the NASW-IL–proprietary manual which includes selected readings and handouts designed to complement the lecture. It will take place on May 7 & 8 from 8am to 12pm. Register here.
Still Looking for a Fall Internship?
Are you still searching for an internship for the 2020–2021 school year? NASW is still seeking an intern starting in the fall. Spend your internship with the largest professional association of social workers in the state of Illinois. Our internships are project-based, working in an independent environment located in Chicago and Springfield. You'll receive practical, hands-on experience, invaluable access to leaders in the social work field, access to legislative and policy experts, access to educational trainings including our LSW/LCSW Review course, and a stipend! To find out more or apply, send a resume and professional writing sample to NASW-Illinois Chapter Executive Director Joel L. Rubin. (NOTE: Due to uncertainty regarding length of time needed to manage the COVID-19 crisis, an applicants’ internship may be partially or mostly virtual. While that is definitely not our intent, we do ask that you contact your school to verify they will allow such an arrangement before applying.)
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