A scholarship is a form of gift aid that doesn't require repayment. Scholarships are generally awarded on a variety of factors, including academic achievement, talent, athletic ability, leadership, geographical location, field of study, or financial need.
When you apply, you're automatically considered for our merit-based scholarships. These are for first-year and transfer students in any college based on academic excellence. All scholarships are for fall and spring semesters only unless otherwise noted.
Our colleges also award a wide variety of scholarships to deserving students. Again, your application for admission is all you need to be considered. If you're eligible, you'll be contacted directly by those administering the award.
To be considered for need-based scholarships, you need to apply for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you're an Illinois resident who isn't otherwise eligible for federal financial aid, you can submit the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid. You can also submit a supplemental form for scholarships awarded by the Office of Student Financial Aid.
You can find additional scholarship opportunities, including access to our scholarship database, a listing of federal and state scholarships, and more, through our Office of Student Financial Aid.
Review our scholarship and waiver policy, which ensures that funds are awarded and administered fairly.