Best Higher Education Grants in Illinois

The Environmental Engineering and Science Foundation offers six Master's Degree scholarships of $2,500 each for students pursuing advanced studies in Environmental Engineering or related fields. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, have a strong academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be accepted into an accredited graduate program. This initiative aims to support future leaders in environmental engineering and science.

The Mary Ellen Kowalski Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Mary Ellen, a dedicated educator and community member. Established by her husband in 2025, this scholarship aims to support graduating high school seniors from Marathon County pursuing post-secondary education. Applicants are evaluated on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal challenges, ensuring that deserving students receive the financial assistance needed to succeed in their educational endeavors.

The Robert B. B. and Josephine N. Moorman Scholarship, established in 2008 by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), provides financial support for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in civil engineering or related fields. This scholarship honors Robert B.B. Moorman, a dedicated civil engineering professor. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in an ABET-accredited program and maintain good standing with ASCE. This award aims to alleviate tuition costs for deserving students committed to the civil engineering profession.

The Lawrence W. & Francis W. Cox Scholarship, established by Mrs. Wahneta T. Hinrichs in 2008, honors the legacy of her husband and father-in-law. This scholarship is awarded annually to one undergraduate civil engineering student enrolled in an ABET-accredited program. It aims to support students with tuition expenses, furthering their education in civil engineering disciplines, thus contributing to the profession's growth and sustainability.

The John Lenard Civil Engineering Scholarship, established in 2008 by John Lenard, P.E., F.ASCE, supports undergraduate students pursuing civil engineering with a focus on water supply or environmental engineering. The scholarship aims to assist deserving students in covering tuition expenses. Awarded annually, it is limited to two recipients who demonstrate commitment to their field. The American Society of Civil Engineers, founded in 1852, oversees this scholarship, fostering excellence in civil engineering education.

The Eugene C. Figg, Jr. Civil Engineering Scholarship, established by Figg Engineering Group in 2002, honors the legacy of Gene Figg, who was renowned for his artistic bridge designs. This scholarship aims to support undergraduate civil engineering students with a passion for bridge design and construction, facilitating their education in an ABET-accredited program. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens and Student Members of the American Society of Civil Engineers in good standing.

The B. Charles Tiney Memorial ASCE Student Chapter Scholarship, established in 1980 by Mrs. Hazel M. Tiney, provides financial support to deserving undergraduate civil engineering students. This scholarship aims to assist with tuition expenses for those enrolled in ABET-accredited programs. Recipients are chosen based on their commitment to the civil engineering field and must be members in good standing of the American Society of Civil Engineers and their respective student chapters.

The Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship provides crucial financial support to students with cystic fibrosis. This scholarship not only alleviates educational expenses but also recognizes students who exhibit resilience and academic excellence. Annually, the foundation awards scholarships to deserving candidates, ensuring they can pursue their educational goals without overwhelming financial stress. Eligible applicants must demonstrate strong character and leadership while maintaining academic achievement. With awards up to $30K for undergraduates and $45K for graduates, this scholarship is pivotal for affected students.

The Trent R. Dames & William W. Moore Fellowship, established by Dames and Moore in 1990, supports graduate studies for practicing engineers or earth scientists who are ASCE members. This fellowship aims to advance engineering science and enhance societal welfare through innovative applications in geotechnical engineering and earth sciences, addressing social, economic, environmental, and political issues. Annually, two recipients are selected to further their academic pursuits in these critical fields.

The Knut Eriksen Leadership and Management Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), supports civil engineering students and young engineers under 35 who are pursuing advanced degrees in leadership and management. This fellowship aims to foster future leaders in civil engineering by providing financial assistance for tuition, research, and living expenses. It promotes the development of skills essential for management roles within the profession, ensuring a commitment to excellence in both education and practice.

The O. H. Ammann Research Fellowship in Structural Engineering, awarded by the American Society of Civil Engineers, supports innovative research in structural design and construction. This prestigious fellowship is aimed at members in good standing and encourages original contributions to the field. Recipients must demonstrate the ability to explore new ideas and may not engage in other research during the fellowship term. This initiative strengthens the expertise within the civil engineering profession globally.

The Health Career Connection Internship, offered by John Muir Health, is a 10-week full-time program aimed at empowering underrepresented college students in healthcare. This internship provides valuable mentorship, networking opportunities, and real-world experience, focusing on diverse backgrounds. It encourages participants to explore careers in health professions, particularly those from low-income and first-generation college student backgrounds. The program is designed to inspire and motivate interns as they embark on their professional journeys.

The CLIMB Near Peer Mentorship Program by John Muir Health offers a year-long mentorship initiative aimed at developing family medicine learners into community-engaged providers. This program supports high school, undergraduate, and medical students by pairing them with mentors in the healthcare field. Participants engage in weekly virtual meetings and receive guidance throughout their educational journey, fostering a diverse and inclusive future in healthcare professions.

The J. Waldo Smith Hydraulic Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in 1938, supports graduate students pursuing experimental hydraulics research. With a focus on practical experiments to advance knowledge in hydraulic flow, this fellowship is awarded to up to two deserving members annually, aiding in tuition and living expenses. Preference is given to Associate Members, fostering the education of future leaders in civil engineering.

The Jack E. Leisch Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers, supports full-time graduate students in transportation planning and traffic operations. This fellowship honors Jack E. Leisch's contributions to civil engineering and offers approximately $5,000 to deserving candidates. Selection criteria include academic performance, leadership potential, and financial need, ensuring support for future leaders in the field.

The Freeman Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1924, supports young engineers pursuing graduate studies in hydraulic engineering. Awarded annually to up to three deserving students, it covers tuition, research, and living expenses. This fellowship encourages the next generation of civil engineers to excel in their education and contributes to the advancement of the field, reflecting ASCE's commitment to fostering talent within the profession.

The Fred and Tana Moses Bridge Engineering Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), aims to advance the field of bridge engineering. This annual fellowship is awarded to a graduate student pursuing an advanced degree in the discipline, providing vital support for their studies. ASCE, representing over 160,000 civil engineers worldwide, is committed to fostering professional excellence and innovation in the civil engineering community.

The Arthur S. Tuttle Fellowship, established in 1983 through the generosity of ASCE President Arthur S. Tuttle, supports graduate students in civil engineering. Up to four students may receive this annual fellowship, which is intended for their first year of graduate studies. Candidates must be members of the American Society of Civil Engineers and demonstrate financial need and educational merit. This fellowship promotes the development of future civil engineering professionals.

The ILSG Student Research Fund, established by the Institute on Lake Superior Geology, aims to support student research in the Lake Superior region with annual awards totaling US$1,000. This initiative encourages the presentation of research findings at ILSG meetings, fostering academic growth and collaboration. The fund originated from a US$10,000 contribution by the Board of Directors in 2005, with ongoing financial support from annual meeting proceeds, ensuring its sustainability for future student researchers.

The Arthur and Hazel Auer Scholarship Fund, established by Hazel Auer's will, provides financial support to two East Noble seniors each year as they prepare for 4-year bachelor's programs at accredited colleges. Each recipient receives about $500 per semester for the first two years, totaling $2,000. This fund is managed by the Community Foundation of Noble County, which aims to enhance the quality of life in the region through philanthropic efforts.

The Stenzel Scholarship, established in 2023, awards $2,500 annually to individuals with cystic fibrosis enrolled in higher education programs in health or environmental sciences. This scholarship honors Isa and Ana Stenzel, who dedicated their lives to supporting others with CF. Applicants must provide proof of enrollment and can receive funding based on their enrollment status. This initiative aims to empower those affected by cystic fibrosis to pursue meaningful educational opportunities.

The United States Adult Cystic Fibrosis Association (USACFA) offers a Higher Education Scholarship, honoring Lauren Melissa Kelly. This scholarship awards up to $2500 to two adults with cystic fibrosis pursuing various educational paths. Applicants must show proof of enrollment for the relevant academic year and can cover education-related costs, including tuition and materials. This initiative not only supports education but also commemorates Lauren's legacy, inspiring others to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

The United States Adult Cystic Fibrosis Association (USACFA) offers the Scholarship for the Arts, providing $5,000 to two students pursuing degrees in creative fields. Open to applicants from associate to doctoral levels, candidates must demonstrate a minimum GPA of 3.0 and submit proof of enrollment for the academic year. This scholarship honors Helen, a passionate artist and dedicated mother, whose life exemplified resilience and creativity, inspiring future generations in the arts.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation's College Scholarship Program offers financial support to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need. Scholarships cover significant educational expenses, including tuition and living costs, potentially providing up to $55,000 annually. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher and plan to enroll in an accredited four-year institution. This competitive program not only alleviates financial burdens but also connects students to a network of over 3,400 Cooke Scholars.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation offers the Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship to outstanding community college students with financial need, providing up to $55,000 per year for two to three years to cover educational expenses. This selective scholarship supports students in completing their bachelor's degrees at accredited institutions. Recipients benefit from personalized advising and a robust network of Cooke Scholars. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and demonstrate unmet financial need, ensuring accessibility to higher education.

The J.R. Simplot Company Foundation Grant supports U.S. non-profit organizations focused on art, education, youth, community, and global food and agriculture. Established in 1929, the foundation is committed to enhancing community welfare through creative cultural endeavors, educational initiatives, health services, and youth programs. Applications are reviewed quarterly, ensuring a timely response to organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.

The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship is awarded annually by SHAPE America to honor outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in health and physical education. Established in 1995, this scholarship supports three undergraduate and two graduate recipients. Candidates must be SHAPE America members, majoring in relevant fields, and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership. In addition to financial support, recipients receive a three-year membership to SHAPE America, fostering a commitment to health education and physical activity.