Whether you were born and raised in Illinois or are a newcomer, there's a world of financial aid waiting to help you turn your collegiate dreams into reality. In this guide to Illinois scholarships for college, we'll explore financial aid options, uncovering insider tips along the way!
$5,000
Award Amount
5
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
This scholarship is for Illinois high school seniors who have been accepted into a trade school. Students must have taken the ACT and/or SAT.
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$8,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Apr 1
Deadline
The Women's Another Chance Scholarship is available for mothers who reside in and attend school in the St. Louis area. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher and critical unmet financial need. Click here to learn more about eligibility and how you can apply today!
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$10,000
Award Amount
4
Awards
May 12
Deadline
This contest is open to all public and private high school seniors and college students residing in the following counties in BBB’s service area in Chicago & Northern Illinois. Students must have residence in one of the following counties to be eligible: (Boone, Carroll, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, JoDavies, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, LaSalle, Lee, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside, Will, Winnebago).
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$3,000
Award Amount
3
Awards
Jan 14
Deadline
These scholarships are for students who are residents of Georgia, Illinois, Kansas or Minnesota. And, who are a high school senior or college student pursuing a two or four-year degree in any major. Applicants have participated in community service, demonstrate financial need and reside near Jackson, Minnesota.
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$10,000
Award Amount
10
Awards
Feb 28
Deadline
BNSF Railway is focused on making a difference in the communities where our employees live, work and volunteer. This Foundation is giving one scholarship to award to members from the following states: California, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Texas. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required.
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$16,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 1
Deadline
Rockford University in Illinois offers Deans Scholarships each fall and spring to new first year students who attend full time. Award amounts are up to 50% of tuition. Scholarships are determined at admission, and there is no separate application process, but students must submit a SAT or ACT score to be eligible.
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$10,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
The Era L. and Francis L. Walker Scholarship is a named scholarship from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois that aims to help African American males who are graduating high school seniors from a Rockford Public School to pursue higher education.
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$20,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 31
Deadline
The AMA Foundation Chicago Area Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship provides financial assistance to medical students who attend a partner medical school in Chicago.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jun 30
Deadline
KASF scholarships (which range from $500 to $5,000) are offered to the qualified Korean American students (including foreign students from Korea). All applicants must be enrolled in a full time program in the U.S during the scholarship application year. If extra funds are available, other students (non Koreans) may qualify for scholarships. Specifically, descendants of American veterans served during the Korean War may qualify for scholarships (applicable to selective regions).
To apply for KASF scholarships, it is very important to follow the specific requirements and instructions of the region where the applicant’s school is/will be located during the scholarship application year as the type and amount of available scholarships may differ from region to region.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 2
Deadline
The law office of Newland & Newland, LLP provides exceptional representation and trusted legal guidance to injury victims and their families throughout Cook County and the surrounding areas. Our Arlington Heights personal injury law firm is passionate about supporting the local community and our fellow legal professionals.
We aspire to help single parents and their children overcome the challenges preventing them from pursuing higher education by providing the Newland & Newland Single Parent Scholarship. Our team is offering an award worth $1,000 to single parents and children of single parents who are pursuing a career in law.
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$95,275
Award Amount
1
Award
Jan 9
Deadline
The NIU Presidential Scholars Program recognizes outstanding first-year students for their hard work and academic accomplishments. Eligible students are guaranteed a minimum merit scholarship of $5,000, $6,000 or $7,000 per year (for up to four years) and have the opportunity to compete for a Presidential Scholarship. This competitive scholarship provides full tuition, fees and on-campus room and board, along with a book stipend, for up to eight semesters. Approximately 10 incoming first-year students will receive this award each year.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Aug 31
Deadline
At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we take special pride in serving the people of Illinois and being able to call this state our home. Whether you lived in your hometown or state your whole life, or call a new place your home, we want to hear all about why where you came from is important to you. Through our 2023 Hometown Pride Scholarship, we will award one deserving student with $1,000 to assist them in obtaining their education and their future endeavors. To learn more and apply, visit our scholarship page.
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$8,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jan 15
Deadline
The Jonathan Baldwin Turner (JBT) scholarship program is a renewable, merit-based scholarship supporting College of ACES students who demonstrate leadership, community service, and a commitment to an ACES field of study, as well as the land-grant mission. Eligible first-year students with a minimum overall GPA of 3.4 or higher after the fall term will be invited through their Illinois email account to apply to become a JBT Scholar during the spring semester. Applicants will participate in interviews with College of ACES faculty, staff, alumni and other stakeholders.
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$20,000
Award Amount
20
Awards
Apr 15
Deadline
APCF was founded in 1990 by API community leaders in response to the need for alternative funding for Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations serving API communities. Since 2011, APCF has partnered with donors such as local companies and family foundations to offer scholarship programs to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jun 12
Deadline
At The Law Office of George J. Skuros, we have over 30 years of legal experience, and we have dedicated our practice to serving the needs of families in Chicago, Cook County, and the surrounding areas.
Using the form on our scholarship page, submit your essay, your current academic transcript, a professional headshot of yourself, and contact information.
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$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 1
Deadline
The Norwegian National League is an umbrella organization for all Norwegian cultural, athletic and fraternal organizations in the Chicago area and sponsors a Norwegian Constitution Day Parade in Park Ridge, a Leif Erikson Celebration and Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jan 3
Deadline
From our office in Rolling Meadows, we provide personal injury legal services to clients in Palatine and throughout Chicago's Northwest Suburbs.
To apply for our scholarship award, students must submit an essay as a .docx or PDF file. The essay should be approximately 250 words, and it should answer the following prompt in a thoughtful and organized manner: What does “paying it forward” mean to you? Additionally, using the application form toward the bottom of this page, please submit your contact information, (unofficial) academic transcript, proof of enrollment, and a copy of your FAFSA.
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Sep 23
Deadline
The Goostree Law Group gladly offers financial assistance to college and university students twice a year through our Bright Futures Scholarship. This award opportunity is provided to students with demonstrated financial need who exhibit leadership, determination, and passion in their academic studies and personal lives.
The Goostree Law Group Bright Futures Scholarship provides one student each semester with the opportunity to receive $2,500. The award may be used toward the student’s educational expenses, including tuition and books.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Nov 1
Deadline
The Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans (JCCIA) is proud to offer – from the Frank J. Vigilante Scholarship Fund – scholarships that are awarded to students of Italian extraction demonstrating financial need and high
academic achievement. Competitive students must be of Italian extraction, demonstrate financial need, and must have high academic achievement. The award amount is for a one-time annual scholarship. Students may reapply annually for consideration in the annual selection process.
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$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Sep 16
Deadline
ITS Midwest is pleased to award this $1,500 scholarship to the applicant who most embodies excitement for the use of Intelligent Transportation Systems to improve safety and efficiency. The scholarship criteria looks for excellence in the classroom, passion for innovation, and enthusiasm for the transportation industry.
The scholarship is open to collegiate sophomores, juniors, and seniors planning to enter the transportation field with a primary focus of interest in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Applicants shall be presently attending colleges and universities in the four-state coverage area of ITS Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio).
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$20,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Nov 15
Deadline
Any graduate of a Chicago Public high school with a 3.7 weighted GPA or higher who is admitted as a full-time freshman will be awarded a $20,000 scholarship, beginning in fall of 2019. This scholarship is renewable for four years based on satisfactory academic performance and progress, bringing the total award to $80,000. Students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement may receive a larger award. This scholarship may not be combined with other DePaul scholarships except for the Provost’s Achievement Award. Eligible students also may qualify for need-based financial aid.
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$16,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Oct 23
Deadline
Two $8,000 scholarships ($2,000 each year for four consecutive years) are awarded to three new students accepted to Loyola and also named winners in Chicago's Latino Art Beat competition by Mr. Don Rossi Nuncio, president. These scholarships are restricted to tuition.
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$40,000
Award Amount
4
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
The Rachel Carson Scholarship provides the opportunity for students to learn about nature by studying in nature through summer coursework at Loyola’s Retreat and Ecology Campus (LUREC). LUREC is Loyola’s newest campus located 50 miles NE of Chicago, on 98 acres of wetland, forest, prairies, and ponds, with a 3-acre organic student farm. Courses offered at LUREC include Field Ornithology, Principles of Ecology, Wetland Ecology, Restoration Ecology, Conservation Biology, and Sustainable Agriculture. Awardees will be required to take one 3-week course during the early summer session, in each of two years while at Loyola,. One J-term class at LUREC may substitute for a summer course. Recipients are also required to serve as ambassadors for LUREC with their peers. Four $2,500 per year scholarships will be awarded for up to four years each to qualified new freshman or transfer students who have been admitted into the Institute of Environmental Sustainability (IES). Tuition and fees for LUREC classes must be paid from these funds, which are added to the student’s account at the beginning of each of their eight regular semesters. Prospective candidates must be admitted to Loyola prior to February 1st. The Rachel Carson Scholarship application is due March 1st. If you have questions about this award please contact the Undergraduate Admission Office at 800-262-2373 or
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$20,000
Award Amount
5
Awards
Mar 1
Deadline
Loyola University Chicago offers five awards of varying amounts via a selective process to admitted students from Senn High School. Eligible students must graduate from Senn High School by the summer term and be admitted to Loyola by March 1st. Admitted students are also encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible to qualify for the Illinois Monetary Program (MAP). Undocumented students are invited to apply as well. The application deadline is March 1st. Please check your admitted student status page for the application. Scholarship recipients are required to engage in a dynamic program to enrich their academic, social, spiritual, community, and professional experiences in college.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 1
Deadline
This scholarship offers up to $2,500 per year for two years. Preference will be given to students who are entering their sophomore year or above, who have declared a major in a computer science related field and who demonstrate financial need. SIM Chicago provides a unique opportunity to interact with thought leaders throughout the technology and business fields. The SIM Chicago Scholarship helps fulfill SIM Chicago’s commitment to helping develop the next generation of IT leaders, critical to the industry’s collective future success. Apply through the LUC Scholarship Connect at https://luc.academicworks.com/users/sign_in
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EXPERT INSIGHT
Illinois is home to some of the world's most prestigious institutions including the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago. These schools are known for academic excellence and attract students from around the world. Illinois is also a leader in terms of making college more accessible and affordable. Grant programs like MAP and the Illinois Dream Fund provide generous support to lower and middle class families as well as undocumented students. MAP can also be used at either public or private schools such as Roosevelt, DePaul, Loyola, or Benedictine University. While generous, grants alone often do not cover all a student's educational expenses. For this reason, I encourage all Illinois students I mentor to apply for private scholarships as well.
-John Hall (BA, MBA, EdD)
Considering a college education in Illinois? From bustling Chicago to the serene landscapes of downstate Illinois, the state offers a diverse array of institutions and financial aid options. In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of Illinois scholarships for college, providing invaluable insights and resources to help students unlock the doors to affordable education.
Whether you’re from Illinois or considering making it your home for higher education, let’s explore the pathways to academic success through scholarships designed specifically for you!
Understanding Scholarships in Illinois
As you navigate the bustling streets of Chicago for the first time or soak in the serene beauty of downstate Illinois, one thing’s for sure: your college journey is going to be exciting!
But let’s face it — college isn’t just about late-night study sessions and cramming for exams. It’s about seizing opportunities, chasing dreams, and making memories that will last a lifetime. We believe that every student deserves a shot at achieving their academic aspirations.
That’s where scholarships come in. But how do you find them?
How Do You Find Illinois Scholarships?
As you prepare for college in Illinois, it’s important to recognize the significant financial investment that higher education entails. Tuition costs, textbooks, housing, and other expenses can quickly add up, placing a considerable strain on students and their families.
In a state like Illinois, where the cost of living and tuition rates can be high, scholarships play a crucial role in ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to quality education.
By alleviating the financial burden of college, scholarships can enable you to fully immerse yourself in your studies, explore extracurricular activities, and engage in meaningful experiences that contribute to your personal and academic growth. Here are some tips for finding scholarships:
- Utilize Scholarship Search Engines: Websites like UNIGO offer comprehensive databases of scholarships tailored to Illinois residents. Use these platforms to search for scholarships based on your background, interests, and academic achievements.
- Check with Educational Institutions: Reach out to the financial aid offices of colleges and universities in Illinois to inquire about institutional scholarships. Many schools offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to incoming students, so be sure to explore all available options.
- Research State and Local Scholarships: Illinois offers a variety of scholarships specifically for residents of the state.
- Review Professional Associations and Organizations: Many professional associations and organizations in Illinois offer scholarships to students pursuing careers in specific fields. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, engineering, or the arts, there may be scholarship opportunities available through professional associations in your chosen field.
- Tap into Ethnic, Cultural, and Minority Resources: Explore scholarships offered by ethnic, cultural, and minority organizations in Illinois. These organizations often provide scholarships to students of specific ethnicities, backgrounds, or identities, so be sure to research and apply for scholarships that align with your identity and experiences.
How Do I Apply for Scholarships in Illinois?
As you start looking to secure scholarships to support your educational journey in Illinois, it may feel overwhelming. But here are some essential tips to help you navigate the application process with confidence:
Tip #1: Craft a Compelling Personal Statement
A personal statement is your chance to showcase your achievements, goals, and aspirations. Take the time to craft a narrative that authentically reflects who you are and why you deserve the scholarship.
Tip #2: Gather Strong Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation provide valuable insight into your character and abilities. Reach out to individuals who can speak to your qualifications and request letters well in advance of application deadlines.
Tip #3: Meet Application Deadlines
Organization is key. Keep track of application deadlines and submit your materials well in advance to avoid missing out on opportunities.
Tip #4: Follow Application Instructions Carefully
Pay close attention to application instructions and ensure that you provide all required documents and information. Double-check your application for completeness and accuracy before submitting it.
Tip #5: Prepare for Interviews
Some scholarships may require interviews. Prepare by researching the scholarship organization, practicing common interview questions, and showcasing your qualifications with confidence.
Tip #6: Seek Feedback
Get feedback from mentors or peers. Use their input to refine and strengthen your application materials before submission.
Tip #7: Stay Persistent and Keep Applying
Scholarship applications can be competitive, but don’t let setbacks deter you. Stay persistent, continue honing your materials, and keep applying for opportunities aligned with your goals. With dedication, you can increase your chances of securing valuable financial aid for your education in Illinois.
Merit-Based Scholarships in Illinois
Trying to find merit-based scholarships in Illinois can be both exciting and daunting. These scholarships recognize students for their exceptional academic performance, leadership skills, and extracurricular achievements. They serve as a valuable form of financial aid, rewarding students who have demonstrated excellence in various aspects of their academic journey.
Examples of merit-based scholarships in Illinois include the Illinois State Scholars Program, which honors top-performing high school seniors based on their academic achievements and extracurricular involvement.
Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines for these scholarships is essential for maximizing your chances of success. By staying informed and proactive, you can unlock the doors to valuable financial assistance that will support you on your educational journey in Illinois.
Scholarships for High School Students in Illinois
It’s never too early to start preparing for college! High school student scholarships help alleviate the financial burden of college tuition while rewarding you for your hard work and achievements during your high school years.
An example of scholarships for high school students in Illinois includes the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), which offers financial aid to graduating seniors based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as minority status or military service. Additionally, many local organizations, businesses, and foundations offer scholarships to students within their communities, providing further opportunities for financial support.
Scholarships for High School Seniors in Illinois
Here are some examples of scholarships for high school seniors in Illinois:
- Illinois State Scholar Program: This prestigious program, administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), recognizes outstanding academic achievement among Illinois high school seniors. Recipients of the Illinois State Scholar designation receive a monetary award to help cover tuition costs at participating Illinois colleges and universities.
- Chicago Scholars Program: Designed to empower and support students from under-resourced communities in Chicago, the Chicago Scholars Program provides comprehensive college access and success support. High school seniors selected as Chicago Scholars receive financial assistance, mentorship, and access to resources to help them succeed in college and beyond.
- Community Foundation Scholarships: Many community foundations throughout Illinois offer scholarships to high school seniors in their respective regions. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, financial need, community involvement, or specific criteria set by the foundation.
Scholarships for College Students in Illinois
As you embark on your higher education journey in Illinois, don’t forget to explore scholarship opportunities tailored to your racial background. The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Scholarship and the Illinois Latino Legislative Caucus Foundation Scholarship are two noteworthy avenues for students seeking financial support.
These scholarships are designed to empower students of Black and Latino heritage, respectively, by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Whether you’re pursuing a degree at a college or university in Illinois, these scholarships offer invaluable resources to help alleviate the financial burden of your education while fostering personal and professional growth.
Scholarships for Graduate Students in Illinois
Are you a graduate student in Illinois? According to the NCES, “postsecondary institutions in the United States1 conferred 1.1 million graduate degrees” in the 2020-2021 academic year. With so many individuals attending graduate school, there is a significant need for scholarships. One scholarship option for graduate students is The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program.
This program aims to recruit and prepare talented individuals to become exceptional teachers in high-need schools throughout Illinois. College students pursuing teaching degrees at participating Illinois universities are eligible to apply for the Golden Apple Scholars Program. Recipients receive financial assistance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to support their journey to becoming effective educators.
Grants for Students in Illinois
Looking for options other than scholarships? Grants provide valuable financial assistance to students based on financial need, background, and other eligibility criteria. In Illinois, various grant programs are available to help students cover the costs of their education, including tuition, fees, and other expenses.
You can obtain grants through the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Keep in mind that some grants may require you to meet specific requirements to maintain eligibility.
Illinois Scholarships for Out-of-State Students
Considering a move to Illinois for higher education and career prospects? You’re in luck! Illinois offers scholarships specifically tailored for out-of-state students, making it an attractive destination for pursuing your academic and professional goals.
With its world-class universities, vibrant job market, and diverse communities, Illinois is a great spot for personal and intellectual growth. By taking advantage of these scholarship opportunities, you can not only offset the cost of tuition but also immerse yourself in a fulfilling academic and professional journey.
What Illinois Colleges Provide Full-Ride Scholarships?
Wondering which colleges in Illinois offer full-ride scholarships? These are just a few examples of the many Illinois colleges that prioritize making higher education accessible and affordable for all students through full-ride scholarship opportunities:
The University of Chicago offers the UChicago Empower Initiative, which provides full-tuition scholarships to students from families with incomes below $125,000, along with additional financial aid to cover room and board for eligible students.
Northwestern University offers the Northwestern Scholarship, which covers the full cost of attendance for admitted students with demonstrated financial need, ensuring that all students have access to a world-class education regardless of their financial circumstances.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers the Illinois Commitment program, which guarantees full tuition and fees for in-state students from families with incomes below $67,100. Additionally, the university provides need-based aid to cover additional expenses such as room and board for eligible students.
10 Scholarships in Illinois You Should Apply For
Now that you know all about how to apply for scholarships and what your financial aid options are in Illinois, here are 10 scholarships that you should consider applying for:
- Illinois CPA Society Accounting Tuition Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students pursuing a degree in accounting at an Illinois college or university. Recipients must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
- Roosevelt University Presidential Scholarship: The Presidential Scholarship at Roosevelt University is awarded to incoming freshmen who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to their community.
- Illinois AMVETS Service Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships are available to Illinois high school seniors who are the children or grandchildren of veterans. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and financial need.
- Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation Illinois Scholarships: This scholarship is awarded to children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen from Illinois. Recipients must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and financial need.
- American Legion Illinois Scholarships: The American Legion offers various scholarships for Illinois students, including the American Legion Illinois Boys State Scholarship and the American Legion Illinois Girls State Scholarship. These scholarships are awarded to participants of the Boys State and Girls State programs who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership skills.
- Chicagoland Golf Caddie Scholarship: This scholarship is available to high school seniors who have caddied for at least two seasons at a participating Chicagoland golf club. Recipients must demonstrate financial need, academic achievement, and caddie performance.
- Illinois Federation of Teachers Scholarships: The Illinois Federation of Teachers offers scholarships to high school seniors who are the children of members or members of affiliated unions. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.
- National Italian American Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships are available to Italian American students from Illinois who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to their heritage. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and financial need.
- Illinois Chemical Education Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to Illinois high school seniors who plan to pursue a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering at an Illinois college or university. Recipients must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and involvement in chemistry-related activities.
- Illinois Retail Merchants Association Educational Foundation Scholarships: The IRMA Educational Foundation offers scholarships to Illinois students pursuing degrees in retail-related fields such as business, marketing, and hospitality management. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership, and career goals in the retail industry.
Our Scholarships
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$1,500 – I Have a Dream
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$10,000 – Unigo $10K Award
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$1,500 – Sweet and Simple
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$2,500 – Superpower
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$3,000 – All About Education
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$1,500 – Fifth Month Scholarship
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$1,500 – Do-Over
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$1,500 – Flavor of the Month
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$1,500 – Make Me Laugh
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$1,500 – Shout It Out
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$2,000 – Zombie Apocalypse
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$5,000 – Education Matters
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$1,500 – Top Ten List
Written by McKenna Deen
✔️
Edited by Dave Moniz