Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois

Illinois high school seniors, community college students, and freshmen or sophomores at partner universities who plan to teach in Illinois schools-of-need may apply for the Golden Apple Scholars Program. U.S. residents (including citizens, noncitizens, and DACA recipients) with at least a 2.5 GPA are eligible.

Scholars receive up to $2,500 per year in their first two years and up to $5,000 per year in years three through five toward tuition, fees, and room and board, plus paid summer institutes, mentoring, and job placement support. Recipients must earn Illinois teaching certification and teach at least five years in an approved Illinois school-of-need within seven years of graduation.

Apply with references, personal statements, unofficial transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores (required for homeschooled students). Selected applicants participate in an interview.