I'm a junior in Illinois, the first in my family to go to college. Does anyone know of scholarships for first-generation students from Illinois? Any upcoming deadlines I should be aware of?
There are many scholarships available specifically for first-generation college students in Illinois. Here are a few you may want to look into:
1. Illinois Commitment Program: While not exactly a scholarship, it's important to note this program is offered by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It covers tuition and fees for in-state students from families with an income of $67,100 or less. Although it doesn't have a formal application, you'll need to submit your FAFSA by the priority deadline of January 5th.
2. The Denny's Hungry for Education Scholarship: This scholarship is for high school seniors who are first-generation students. The application period typically ends in December.
3. Illinois CPA Society Scholarships: The Herman J. Neal scholarship specifically supports African-American students studying accounting, which may apply to you depending on your intended major.
Be sure to check the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for all scholarships. Deadlines can vary quite dramatically, typically falling between December and March for scholarships for the following academic year.
Lastly, don't forget about the local opportunities that might be available. Rotaries, Lions Clubs, and local businesses often provide scholarships for first-generation students as a way to give back to the community. Reach out to your school's guidance office for more information.
Best of luck!
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