If you are searching for Illinois scholarships, you have come to the right place. This is the most comprehensive, regularly updated list of scholarships available to Illinois students for the 2025–2026 academic year. I have compiled 118 Illinois scholarships in one place so you do not have to spend hours searching across dozens of websites.
As a college admissions consultant who has worked with thousands of families, I know how overwhelming the scholarship process can be. Many Illinois families miss out on thousands of dollars simply because they do not know where to look or they miss a deadline. This guide to Illinois scholarships is designed to fix that problem.
Whether your student is a high school senior preparing for their freshman year or a current college student looking for additional funding, these Illinois scholarships cover a wide range of interests, backgrounds, and career goals. From STEM awards to arts scholarships, from county-specific grants to statewide programs, you will find opportunities that match your student's profile.
Quick Answer: Illinois Scholarships at a Glance
Total Illinois Scholarships Listed: 118
Award Range: $250 to over $200,000 (full four-year scholarship)
Deadlines: Rolling throughout the year, January through December plus open/varies deadlines
Who Qualifies: Illinois residents, students attending Illinois colleges, and national scholarships open to Illinois applicants
Categories: STEM, arts, community service, athletics, heritage-based, financial need, and more
How to Use This Illinois Scholarships Guide
I have organized this list of Illinois scholarships to make your search as efficient as possible. Here is how to get the most out of it.
First, use the filters below the table to narrow results by deadline month or award amount. This helps you prioritize Illinois scholarships with upcoming deadlines or awards in your target range.
Second, read the eligibility column carefully. Many Illinois scholarships have specific requirements tied to county of residence, field of study, or background. Matching these details to your student's profile is the fastest way to identify strong-fit opportunities.
Third, start early. The best Illinois scholarships fill up quickly, and many require essays, recommendation letters, or transcripts that take time to prepare. I recommend working at least four to six weeks ahead of each deadline.
If you need one-on-one guidance navigating Illinois scholarships or building a complete college funding strategy, book a free consultation with me here.
Complete List of Illinois Scholarships for 2025–2026
| Scholarship Name | Amount | Deadline | Eligibility | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship Program | $7,500 | January 7th | Awards students $7,500 per year to those that show leadership, community service, and financial need. Applicants must be graduating high school, intend to enroll into a four year college/university, display the qualities above, and have a minimum SAT score of 1000 or ACT score of 22. | Apply |
| Princeton Prize in Race Relations (PPRR) Scholarship | $2,500 | January 15th | Gives $1,000 to students who show outstanding leadership abilities to their community and high school through volunteering and other activities. | Apply |
| Quad City Engineering and Science Council Scholarship (QCESC) | $1,000 to $3,000 | January 27th | Offers $3,000 to high school seniors studying STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) and are pursuing their college education. Students should live in the Quad City area in the Illinois Counties. | Apply |
| InspirASIAN Scholarship Program | $2,000 | January 31st | The InspirASIAN Scholarship Program will award national scholarships worth $2000 each. This is for full-time graduating high school seniors with a 3.4 GPA, of any ethnic or cultural background, who plan to attend an accredited college or university (2-year and 4-year) in fall. Must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States and must be residents of of the following states where we currently have participating InspirASIAN chapters: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, Ohio, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. | Apply |
| PRSA Chicago Michelle Flowers Diversity Fellowship Program Scholarship | $500 | January 31st | Offers $3,000 to full-time undergraduate students at a four-year college or university in Illinois and be majored in public relations studies, journalism, communications or courses preparing for a career in public relations. | Apply |
| Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Scholarships | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to students who have academic achievement, expresses financial need, student athletes; students of color; and students pursuing careers in education, STEM, business, fire science, and healthcare. | Apply |
| Buster Lindsay Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | This is given to athlete seniors of Jefferson High School, have a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and plan to attend a 2 or 4 year college or university. T | Apply |
| Charles Lee Anderson Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | This is open to awards vary to graduating Rock Valley College or seniors of Sycamore High school who demonstrate optimism, determination, and leadership. | Apply |
| Janet L. Williams Mathematics Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Grants students various awards to those that are interested in pursuing the fields of mathematics, computer science, or engineering. Applicants must be a graduating senior from Hononegah High School, intend to study the subjects above, have obtained a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and plan to enroll full time into a college/university. | Apply |
| Amanda Reed Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a student who has a 2.5 GPA or higher and shows Amanda’s compassionate and caring nature. Must be a graduate or graduating senior from a public or private high school located within Boone, Ogle, Stephenson or Winnebago County in Illinois. | Apply |
| Amber Huber Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a student who is a graduating senior female from Byron High School who has joined in the Byron High School girls track program or cheerleading for at least three seasons including her senior year. Must have a minimum GPA 2.0. | Apply |
| Anna Schiller Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Awards female students varying amounts. Applicants must identify as female, have obtained a minimum GPA of 2.0, be a graduating senior from Rockford Christian High School, and have a background in community service. | Apply |
| Anthony and Charlotte Kinney Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a student who is majoring in, or plans to major in elementary, middle, or secondary math education and have at least a 3.0 GPA. | Apply |
| Ashley E. Ketcher Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a student graduating Auburn High School in the CAPA program, have an interest and prior experience in the performing arts, have a GPA of at least 2.5 express financial need, and have overcome hardship in life. | Apply |
| Betty Harlan Memorial Art Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Gives a varied amount to students pursuing a degree in the visual arts. Students must be a graduating senior from a public or private high school who resides in Boone, Ogle, or Winnebago County. | Apply |
| Billy Smith Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Provides a varied amount to a graduating high school senior, lives in Winnebago, Boone, Ogle or Stephenson County, have played at least three years of baseball or softball in high school, including senior year, must major in a sports in college, and must have at least a GPA of 3.0 | Apply |
| Carolyn Wones Recruitment Grant | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a female graduating from high school in Boone or Winnebago County, IL and plans to pursue a degree in secondary teaching. | Apply |
| Deborah Jean Rydberg Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a female graduating senior from Guilford High School who is involved in athletics, has a minimum GPA of 2.3, and plans on pursuing their college education. | Apply |
| Dorothy Cleland Memorial NSDAR Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Gives a varied amount to a senior graduating and living in Winnebago County. At least a 3.0 GPA and expresses financial need. | Apply |
| Dr. Gussie M. Ware Memorial Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to an African-American female who is graduating high school senior or has a GED who is pursuing their college education. Must live in Illinois. | Apply |
| Dr. Loomis/Rockton Lions Club Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a graduating Hononegah High School senior, who shows academic promise and expresses financial need, and be involved in community service. | Apply |
| Era L. and Frances L. Walker Scholarship | Varies | February 1st | Offers a varied amount to a graduating senior from a Rockford public high school with a minimum 2.9 GPA. Students must have been involved in community service and volunteerism. | Apply |
| Women’s Army Corps Veterans’ Association Scholarship | $1,500 | February 2nd | Awards students $1,500 to those that are directly related to women that have served in the Armed Forces. Applicants must be directly related (son/daughter/grandchild/etc.), have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.5, enroll into a college/university full time, submit a biographical sketch, letters of recommendation, personal letters, and a transcript. | Apply |
| Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship | $1,000 | February 15th | Grants students various amounts to those interested in studying the field of natural resources or anything related. Applicants must be a graduating senior, enroll full time into a two/four-year institution, have obtained a GPA of 3.0 or higher, intend to study the subject above, a reside within the following counties: Boone, Cook, Dekalb, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Will, or Winnebago. | Apply |
| Simon Youth Greg Saunders Legacy Scholarship Program | $3,000 | February 16th | Gives a varied amount to a child of a full-time or part-time employee of Simon Property Group who has been employed for at least one year and be a a high school senior or current college student who is under 23 years old. | Apply |
| Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program | $10,000 | February 16th | Offers up to $10,000 to a student who must be current high school seniors who plan to enroll as a full-time student in the following year at a college or university, be a US citizen, be Pell Grant-eligible. | Apply |
| The Vanross Foundation Scholarship | $500 | February 16th | Awards students $500 to those that display academic success and have a background in community service. Applicants must reside and graduate from a high school in Illinois and attend a college/university in Illinois, submit a transcript, FAFSA application, three recommendation letters, and a personal letter to the foundation. | Apply |
| Rotary Community Service Awards | $1,500 | February 19th | Scholarship offers $1,500 to graduating seniors who live in Oak Park or River Forest, Illinois and are active in community service. | Apply |
| IWEA Environmental Career Scholarship | $500 | February 28th | Awards students $500 to those interested in pursuing a career in science or the environment. Applicants must reside in Illinois, graduate from an Illinois high school, and have obtained a minimum GPA of 2.5. | Apply |
| LCA Scholarship Program | $10,000 | February 28th | Offers up to $10,000 to college students enrolled in full time or part time in a horticultural related program | Apply |
| National Association of Women in Construction-Quad City, IL #50 | Varies | February 28th | Offers a varied amount to students interested in pursuing a career in the construction industry. | Apply |
| Illinois AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Memorial Scholarships | $4,000 | March 1st | Awards students $500 to those related to a parent/grandparent that has served in the Armed Forces. Applicants must have a parent or grandparent that was honorably discharged or are currently serving, be a graduating senior, reside in Illinois, and took the ACT or SAT. | Apply |
| BPW Illinois Educational Foundation Incoming Freshman Scholarship | $2,000 | March 1st | Awards female students various amounts. Applicants must reside in Illinois, identify as female, be a graduating senior, enroll into a college/university full time, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.0, and display financial need. | Apply |
| The Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund | $22,000 | March 1st | Offers a varied amount to students who are enrolled in STEM coursework, have a GPA of at least 3.0 and have a good attendance record. | Apply |
| Norwegian National League Scholarship | $1,000 | March 1st | Offers $1,000 to current students who are of Norwegian ancestry, and live in the counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Kendall, Lasalle, McHenry or Will. | Apply |
| llinois AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Worchid Scholarships | $500 | March 1st | Awards students $500 to those related to a parent that has served in the Armed Forces. Applicants must have a parent that was honorably discharged, be a graduating senior, reside in Illinois, and took the ACT or SAT. | Apply |
| Corporate Relocation Council of Chicago Scholarship | $1,000 | March 9th | This is available to students who have relocated to the Chicago area at some point between grades 9-12 due to parents job relocation. | Apply |
| Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship | $5,000 | March 13th | Grants African American/Black students passionate for technology various awards ranging from a one-time award of 2,500 to a $5,000 renewable award. Applicants must identify as African American/Black, be a graduating senior within the U.S, intend to enroll in a college/university and study the majors listed, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.3, and display qualities of leadership and financial need. | Apply |
| Villa Park Junior Women’s Club Scholarship | $1,500 | March 15th | Offers $1,500 to a student who is a current resident of Villa Park, high school senior status, with at least a 3.0 GPA, and has participated in at least 1 community service activity for at least two years. | Apply |
| The Illinois Sheriffs Association Scholarship | $500 | March 15th | Offers a varied amount to a student who must be enrolled full-time at a college or university within the State of Illinois. Students must be permanent residents of Illinois. | Apply |
| NIADA Foundation Regional Scholarships | $3,500 | March 21st | Awards $3,500 to high school seniors who have demonstrated excellent academic achievement and high SAT and ACT scores. | Apply |
| Chicago Roofing Contractors Association Scholarship | $4,000 | March 27th | Offers $4,000 to a high school senior who is pursuing their college education in the following majors: liberal arts and sciences, engineering, architecture or business. Scholarship is decided on academic performance and recommendations. | Apply |
| CBC Spouses Performing Arts Scholarship | $3,000 | March 29th | Awards $3,000 to a student who is currently enrolled full-time in an accredited academic institution, and has at least a 2.5 GPA. | Apply |
| Greater St. Louis Art Association Scholarship | $2,500 | March 30th | Offers $2,500 to full or half-time college students (minimum of 6 credit hours) majoring in an art. | Apply |
| Robert Sherman Fine Art Scholarship | $1,000 | March 30th | Offers a $1,000 to a high school senior planning to pursue a college degree in visual art. | Apply |
| Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship Program | $5,000 | March 31st | Awards up to $5,000 to US Citizens or an eligible non-citizen or meets the criteria of undocumented student, must be a minority, have a high school degree or GED interested in higher education. | Apply |
| Palumbo Family Foundation Scholarship | $15,000 | March 31st | Offers up to $15,000 to students who are high school seniors, or has a GED diploma or an undergraduate student and students at vocational and trade school. | Apply |
| The National Federation of the Blind Merit Scholarship | $2,500 | March 31st | Awards $2,500 to qualified blind students. | Apply |
| Environmental Studies/Natural Science Entering College Scholarship | $1,000 | March 31st | Awards students $1,000 to those intending to pursue a career in environmental preservation. Applicants must be a graduating senior, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.0, reside and attend a high school within the following counties: Lake, McHenry, Kane, Cook, DuPage, Kendall, or Will. | Apply |
| Hinsdale (HJWC) Junior Women's Club Scholarship | $3,750 | March 31st | Offers a varied amount to a female high school senior in the Western Suburbs of Chicago who has dedicated time and effort serving their communities. Students must live in the Western Chicago Suburbs | Apply |
| Waukegan Park District Scholarship | $1,000 | March 31st | Awards students $1,000 to those interested in pursuing a degree in park and recreation. Applicants must reside within the Waukegan Park District, enrolled in a college/university, and pursue a degree in park and recreation or anything related. | Apply |
| Won Buddhism Chicago Scholarship | $1,000 | April 1st | Awards students $1,000 to those that display academic excellence, qualities of leadership, and have a background in community service and extracurriculars. Applicants must be a graduating senior, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.0, submit a written essay, research paper, transcript, and SAT/ACT scores. | Apply |
| Illinois CPA Society Freshmen Scholarship | $2,000 | April 1st | Awards students interested in accounting $2,000. Applicants must be a graduating senior, reside in Illinois, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.0, and identify with the ethnicities underrepresented within the field. | Apply |
| Stephanie H.Greene Memorial Scholarship | $1,000 | April 1st | Offers $1,000 to a student who lives in Liberty IL. They must be enrolled in a college or university. | Apply |
| AAUW Return to Learning Scholarships | $2,500 | April 1st | Awards $2,500 to women in the process of completing their undergraduate or graduate degree who are residents in Illinois who are interested in STEM field study, express financial need, and demonstrate strong academic standing. | Apply |
| CPA Endowment Fund of Illinois | Varies | April 1st | Offers a varied amount to students who are residents of Illinois. | Apply |
| Italian Catholic Federation First Year Scholarship | $400 | April 1st | Grants students $400 to those that have a relative or student identify with the Roman Catholic faith. Applicants must be residing within the places listed or have a relative that is a member of the organization, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.2, display academic success, financial need, qualities of leadership, and have a background of community service and extracurriculars. | Apply |
| Chicago Engineers’ Foundation Scholarship | $1,200 | April 1st | Awards students $1,200 to those intending to study engineering. Applicants must be a graduating senior, enrolled in a ABET program, reside in Chicago, and satisfy academic requirements. | Apply |
| Illinois CPA Society Accounting Scholarship | $1,000 to $4,000 | April 1st | Grants students various awards ranging from $1,000 - $4,000 to those interested in accounting. Applicants must reside in Illinois, enrolled into a college/university in Illinois, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.0, and within three years intend to take the CPA exam. | Apply |
| Chicago Engineers Foundation Awards | $1,000 | April 1st | This Scholarship awards $1,000 to graduating high school seniors who are living or going to school in the city of Chicago, must be planning to study engineering, and have a minimum of a 2.5 GPA. | Apply |
| CEFS Economic Opportunity Corporation CSBG Scholarship | Varies | April 1st | Offers a varied amount to a student who plans to enroll full time in an Illinois college and expresses financial need. | Apply |
| Greenhouse Scholars Program | $5,000 | April 4th | Offers up to $20,000 (5,000 per year) Must have 3.5 GPA or higher, demonstrate financial need, be a US Citizen, and show excellent leadership skills, an ability to persevere through difficult circumstances and have a strong interest in their community. | Apply |
| Amos & Edith Wallace Scholarship | $1,000 | April 10th | Offers $1,000 to a Female African- American High School senior graduating from Kankakee High School in Kankakee, IL. Students must have a minimum 2.8 GPA and plan to pursue their college education. | Apply |
| Kendall-Grundy Community Action Scholarship | Varies | April 15th | Offers a varied amount to students living in the Illinois area. | Apply |
| Womanspace Scholarship | Varies | April 15th | Offers a varied amount to students pursuing an education in the arts, writing, or women's studies. | Apply |
| Butkus- Sylvester Family Scholarship | Varies | April 15th | Offers a varied amount to students who attend an Illinois university, be of at least Junior standing, and be enrolled in an engineering program. Applicants should have a 3.0 average or better in those courses which are accredited toward the engineering degree. | Apply |
| NINA Journalism Scholarship | $1,000 | April 17th | Awards up to $1,000 to a student who is interested in online or print journalism, must reside in Northern Illinois. | Apply |
| The AAF-Greater Evansville Scholarship Award | Varies | April 19th | Grants students various awards to those interested in pursuing marketing, public relations, graphic design, or advertising. Applicants must reside within the counties of Edwards, White, Wabash, or Wayne, pursue the subjects above, and have obtained a GPA of 3.0 or higher. | Apply |
| Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship Program | $2,500 | April 20th | Awards high school senior students pursuing their college education as a full time student. | Apply |
| ISL Midwest Senior Scholarship | $1,000 | April 30th | Awards up to 1,000 to Midwest resident high school seniors and legal US Residents. | Apply |
| Sara Scholarship | $2,000 | April 30th | Awards female students $2,000 to those that are involved with golf. Applicants must identify as female, be a graduating senior, enroll into a college/university, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.3, and display financial need. | Apply |
| Upakar Indian-American Scholarship | $2,000 | April 30th | Grants students of Indian descent two awards, one of $2,000 and another $8,000. Applicants must have a parent that was born in India or student was born in India, enroll full time in a two/four year institution, be a graduating senior, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.6, have a familial income of $90,000 or less, and submit a written essay. | Apply |
| Elaine Chapin Memorial Scholarship | $1,000 | April 30th | Offers $1,000 to a student who is a citizen of the United States who plans to pursue their college education. Students must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. | Apply |
| Friends of Moraine Hills State Park Scholarship in Environmental Studies | $1,000 | April 30th | Offers $1,000 to high school graduates entering the field of environmental studies. They must live in Lake, McHenry, or Kane counties Illinois. They must also plan to major in a field of study in pursuing their college education. Must have a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher. | Apply |
| AISES Northeast Illinois Scholarship | $2,500 | April 30th | Awards students $2,500 to those that are descendents of American Indians. Applicants must be a graduating senior, have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.0, reside in Illinois or other states listed, and become a member. | Apply |
| Jamie Bax Memorial Scholarship | $2,500 to $5,000 | May 1st | Grants students with Cystic Fibrosis various awards ranging from $2,500 - $5,000. Applicants must have cystic fibrosis, reside in Illinois or other states listed, be enrolled in a college/university, and have obtained a minimum GPA of 2.7. | Apply |
| Bob Blazier Scholarship for Leadership | $500 | May 1st | Available to high school seniors or college students attending Crystal Lake Community School District 155, Marian Central Catholic High School, or McHenry County College who are pursuing a major in education. | Apply |
| Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Scholarship | Varies | May 7th | Available to students interested in culinary arts, foodservice, restaurant management, or related fields. Applicants must reside in Illinois and be enrolled in a college/university, culinary school, or hospitality school. | Apply |
| Build Your Dream Scholarship | $2,500 | May 10th | Applicants must submit a written essay. Open to students seeking financial support for their education. | Apply |
| Calculated Genius STEMINIST Scholarship | Up to $5,000 | May 10th | For women pursuing college degrees in engineering. Applicants must be currently attending college, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be a U.S. citizen or under DACA. | Apply |
| Chicago Coalition for the Homeless Scholarship | $2,500 | May 10th | Eligible applicants include students from Chicago and suburban schools who experienced homelessness during high school, as verified by the student’s school. Youth leaders active with the organization are also eligible. A cumulative weighted GPA of 2.5 or higher is required. | Apply |
| Bill Cowden Memorial Aviation Scholarship | $1,500 | May 15th | Open to one pilot from the Midwest. Applicants must hold a current Private Pilot Certificate and submit one letter of recommendation related to aviation skills. | Apply |
| Ford Built Tough | $1,000 | May 29th | Offers $1,000 to a student pursuing their college education in any major. | Apply |
| Single Parent Scholarship | $1,000 | May 31st | For graduating seniors who lived in a single-parent household. Applicants must enroll in a college/university and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. | Apply |
| Friends of MCC Foundation Scholarships | Varies | May 31st | Open to students studying a wide range of fields including accounting, anthropology, art, athletics, business, construction management, culinary, cultural diversity, education/early childhood education, healthcare, manufacturing, music, nursing, STEM, special needs, and veterans. | Apply |
| Baxter & Woodman Civil Engineering Scholarship | $1,000 | June 1st | Offers a scholarship to a student who is a resident of Illinois and is majoring in civil engineering. The application period for the 2025 scholarship has closed; check back in 2026 for next year’s application. | Apply |
| Fox Pest Control Scholarship | Up to $2,000 | June 1st | Awards to an excellent student who serves in their community and provides services to those in need. | Apply |
| Korean American Scholarship Fund | $500 to $5,000 | June 30th | Grants students of Korean descent various awards. Applicants must be of Korean descent, attend a college/university in Illinois, have obtained a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and display financial need. | Apply |
| Gwendolyn Brooks Poetry Award | $500 | June 30th | Gives a scholarship to a student who is an Illinois resident 18 or over. | Apply |
| BLM² Scholarship Foundation College Scholarship | $1,000 | July 3rd | Offers $1,000 to a minority high school student who lives in Illinois and has at least a 3.0 GPA. | Apply |
| Michael Moody Fitness Scholarship | $1,500 | August 1st | Awards students who display academic success, qualities of leadership, have a background in community service, and are interested in the fields of health or fitness. Applicants must be a graduating senior, enrolled in a two- or four-year institution, and pursue the subjects listed. | Apply |
| Marki Lemons Ryhal Education Advancement Scholarship | $500 | August 1st | Awards African American female students interested in attending a HBCU. Applicants must reside in Illinois, be enrolled in a HBCU and a degree program in urban planning/development, business, or real estate, and submit a written essay. | Apply |
| Italian American Executives of Transportation Scholarship | Varies | August 31st | Grants students who are Italian American and demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and a background in community service and extracurriculars. | Apply |
| The Illinois Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs, Inc. Scholarship | $250 | September 1st | Offers a scholarship to parents of multiple children or to a daughter or son of multiples. Applicants must live in Illinois. | Apply |
| AITCOY Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships | $500 / $1,000 | September 13th | Awards $500 to high school seniors entering a four-year college or university and $1,000 to students attending or accepted into a master’s program. | Apply |
| CDGA Foundation Scholarship | $1,500 to $5,000 | September 15th | Awards students dependent on a disabled/deceased veteran. Applicants must reside in Illinois, have obtained a minimum GPA of 2.0, and enroll in a college/university. | Apply |
| Acorn Equality Fund | Varies | September 20th | Offers awards to students who reside in Illinois and live in a permanent residence in the Acorn Equality Fund service area of downstate Illinois (all Illinois counties except Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will) and attend any accredited post-secondary educational institution. | Apply |
| QuestBridge - The National College Match Scholarship | Over $200,000 | September 26th | Awards a full four-year scholarship, worth over $200,000, to high-achieving, low-income students for early admission to a QuestBridge college partner. | Apply |
| The Rise Foundation Scholarship | $500 | October 15h | Awards high school seniors enrolled in Chicago Public Schools from low-income, single-parent households who are pursuing college education and attend 3 out of 5 Rise Foundation workshops. | Apply |
| IRHA Rural Dental & Social Work/Behavioral Scholarships | $1,500 | November 18th | Awards students currently enrolled in a Dental or Graduate Level Social Work/Behavioral Health program. | Apply |
| Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship | $500 | November 30th | Grants female students interested in STEM. Applicants must identify as female and be a graduating senior. | Apply |
| Ron Brown Scholars Program | $10,000 per year | December 1st | Awards disadvantaged African American/Black students who exemplify academic success and have an interest in global citizenship, public service, business entrepreneurship, or community engagement. Applicants must be graduating seniors and identify as African American or Black. | Apply |
| Paliwal Club of 100 Steam Scholars Fund | $750 to $1,500 | December 13th | Grants female students pursuing a career in the STEAM field. Applicants must identify as female, be enrolled in a two- or four-year college/university, submit a written essay along with two recommendation letters, and display financial need. | Apply |
| Paliwal Club of 100 Music Scholars Fund | $500 to $5,000 | December 13th | Awards female students pursuing a career in music. Applicants must identify as female, be enrolled in a two- or four-year college/university, submit a written essay along with two recommendation letters, and display financial need. | Apply |
| Saint Francis Healthcare Scholarship Program | $4,000 | Varies | Awards a student who has been in an accredited healthcare program for at least one year. Must have at least a 3.0 GPA and live in the Saint Francis Service Area. | Apply |
| Valparaiso University Ament-Benner Scholarship | $5,000 | Varies | Awards a student preparing for a career in the healthcare field who expresses financial need. | Apply |
| Gateways to Opportunity Scholarship Program | Varies | Varies | Awards legal U.S. residents who care for children in an Illinois Department of Children and Family Services program and are employed at the current program for at least one year, working an average of 15 hours per week. | Apply |
| Chicago Police and Fire Scholarship - UChicago | Full tuition | Varies | Offers full-tuition scholarships to select children of active firefighters and police officers. Students whose parent lost their life in the line of duty are also eligible. | Apply |
| Chicago Star Scholarship | Varies | Varies | Awards a student with at least a 3.0 GPA who must maintain a 2.0 GPA while enrolled in City College of Chicago’s academic pathways. | Apply |
| Illinois Veteran Grant Program | Varies | Varies | Awards veterans or those on federal active duty. | Apply |
| Northern Illinois University AIM HIGH Scholarship | Varies | Varies | Awards U.S. Citizen Illinois residents who attended an Illinois high school and are a college freshman or transfer student, seeking an undergraduate degree, and must maintain a 3.0 GPA. | Apply |
| Posse Foundation Scholarship | Varies | Varies | Awards students in their first term of senior year in high school who demonstrate academic achievement. | Apply |
| UChicago Promise | Varies | Varies | Awards students who show academic promise and live in Chicago, IL. | Apply |
| University of Illinois Provost Scholarship | Varies | Varies | Awards incoming college freshmen who live in Illinois. | Apply |
| University of Illinois Stamps Scholarship | Varies | Varies | Awards incoming college freshmen who reside in Illinois. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their studies. | Apply |
| University of Illinois Transfer Scholarship | $2,000 | Varies | Awards transfer students from Illinois who express financial need. | Apply |
| John R. Cervantes Memorial Scholarship | $1,000 | Varies | Awards students who display qualities of dedication and ambition in memory of John R. Cervantes. Financial need and a background in community service are also required. | Apply |
| SOULE Scholarship | Up to $5,000 | Varies | Awards students up to $5,000 who identify as African American/Black and part of the LGBTQ+ community. Applicants must enroll full-time at a college/university, graduate high school, have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be eligible for Pell Grant, submit FAFSA, and provide two recommendation letters. | Apply |
Making the Most of Illinois Scholarships
Finding the right Illinois scholarships is only part of the equation. To truly maximize your student's funding, you need to understand the broader financial aid landscape in Illinois and take a strategic approach to every application.
Illinois State Financial Aid Programs
Beyond the private Illinois scholarships listed above, the state of Illinois offers several major financial aid programs administered through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). These state-funded programs can significantly reduce college costs and should be part of every Illinois family's funding strategy.
The Monetary Award Program (MAP) is the largest need-based grant program in Illinois. MAP grants provide up to $7,392 per year to eligible Illinois residents attending participating Illinois colleges and universities. To apply, simply file your FAFSA or Illinois Alternative Application. There is no separate application, but funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so filing early is critical. Many Illinois families miss this opportunity by submitting their FAFSA too late.
The Illinois AIM HIGH Grant Program provides merit-based institutional aid funded through a partnership between the state and public universities. Each participating Illinois public university sets its own eligibility criteria, but the program is designed to make in-state tuition more affordable for academically strong students. Contact your target schools directly to learn about their AIM HIGH awards.
The Illinois National Guard Grant covers tuition and certain fees for current members of the Illinois National Guard enrolled at Illinois public universities. The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program provides up to $23,000 toward tuition and fees for students who commit to teaching in high-need Illinois schools for five years after graduation.
The Minority Teachers of Illinois (MTI) Scholarship Program offers up to $5,000 per year for minority students pursuing teaching degrees. This is also listed in the scholarship table above. And the Illinois Veteran Grant Program waives tuition and fees at Illinois public universities for eligible veterans, making it one of the most valuable Illinois scholarships for military families.
Regional and County-Specific Illinois Scholarships
One thing I always tell families is to look close to home. Some of the best Illinois scholarships are hyper-local awards tied to specific counties, high schools, or community organizations. These awards often receive fewer applications, which means your student has better odds.
In this list, you will find a significant number of Illinois scholarships from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois. These scholarships target students from Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, DeKalb, and surrounding counties. If your student attends a high school in the Rockford area or northern Illinois, review every one of these awards carefully.
The Quad Cities area has its own Illinois scholarships through organizations like the Quad City Engineering and Science Council. Chicago-area students benefit from awards such as the Chicago Engineers Foundation Scholarship, the Corporate Relocation Council of Chicago Scholarship, and numerous CPS-specific programs. Downstate Illinois students should explore the Acorn Equality Fund and county-specific options from community foundations.
County-level community foundations throughout Illinois often administer dozens of scholarships that never make it onto the big national search engines. I recommend contacting your local community foundation directly to ask about Illinois scholarships specific to your area.
Field-Specific Illinois Scholarships
Many of the Illinois scholarships in this guide are tied to specific fields of study. Here is a quick breakdown of what is available by career interest.
STEM students will find strong options among Illinois scholarships, including the Quad City Engineering and Science Council Scholarship, the Janet L. Williams Mathematics Scholarship, the Environmental Studies scholarships, and the Calculated Genius STEMINIST Scholarship for women in engineering. Accounting students have multiple Illinois CPA Society scholarships to explore.
Students interested in the arts can apply for Illinois scholarships such as the Betty Harlan Memorial Art Scholarship, the Robert Sherman Fine Art Scholarship, the Gwendolyn Brooks Poetry Award, and the Greater St. Louis Art Association Scholarship. Music students should look at the Paliwal Club of 100 Music Scholars Fund.
Future educators have several Illinois scholarships available, including the Golden Apple Scholars program, the Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship, the Anthony and Charlotte Kinney Scholarship for math education, and the Carolyn Wones Recruitment Grant for women pursuing secondary teaching.
Healthcare students can explore the Saint Francis Healthcare Scholarship, the Valparaiso University Ament-Benner Scholarship, and the IRHA Rural Dental and Social Work Scholarships. Students interested in agriculture and environmental science should review the Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship and the IWEA Environmental Career Scholarship.
Tips for Winning Illinois Scholarships
After working with over 2,500 students, I have seen what separates successful Illinois scholarship applicants from the rest. Here are the strategies that consistently lead to results.
Start with fit. Do not waste time applying to every scholarship on this list. Instead, identify the 15 to 20 Illinois scholarships where your student is the strongest match based on eligibility, location, and interests. A focused approach with strong applications beats a scattered approach with generic ones every time.
Write authentic essays. Scholarship committees reading applications for Illinois scholarships can spot a recycled essay immediately. Tailor each essay to the specific mission and values of the awarding organization. Show the committee you understand who they are and why their work matters.
Secure strong recommendation letters. Give your recommenders at least three weeks and provide them with a summary of the scholarship, your student's relevant accomplishments, and any themes the essay addresses. This helps them write targeted letters that reinforce your student's application for Illinois scholarships.
Track every deadline. I recommend creating a simple spreadsheet with the scholarship name, deadline, required materials, and submission status. Missing a deadline by even one day means a lost opportunity, and with Illinois scholarships spread across every month of the year, staying organized is essential.
What to Do Next
You now have access to 118 Illinois scholarships in one searchable, filterable list. The next step is to take action. Review the table, identify the Illinois scholarships that match your student's profile, and start building your application timeline.
If you want expert guidance through this process, I am here to help. I work with families one-on-one to build scholarship strategies, review essays, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. Schedule a free consultation here and let's put together a plan to fund your student's education.
Clarity. Confidence. Results. That is what I bring to every family I work with, and I would love to help yours find the right Illinois scholarships to make college affordable.
