Scholarship Opportunity

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Scholarship Program

Offered by Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) administers more than 130 scholarship funds through a unified application system. Students complete one application and are automatically matched with scholarships for which they qualify.

EssayRequired
RenewableNo
Grade LevelHigh School Senior, College Freshman, College Sophomore, College Junior, College Senior, Graduate Student, Community College Student, Transfer Student, Adult Learner, Trade School Student

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

Annual Scholarship Cycle

OpensDecember 1, 2026
DeadlineFebruary 1, 2027

Eligibility

  • Meet the eligibility requirements of one or more Community Foundation of Northern Illinois scholarship funds.
  • Complete the unified scholarship application.
  • Attend or plan to attend an eligible postsecondary institution.
  • Additional eligibility requirements vary by scholarship.

Requirements

  • Complete the online unified scholarship application.
  • Submit all requested supporting documents.
  • Provide essays when required.
  • Provide transcripts and recommendations for scholarships that require them.

How to Apply

  1. 1Create an account in the CFNIL scholarship portal.
  2. 2Complete the unified scholarship application.
  3. 3Upload all required supporting documents.
  4. 4Submit the application before the published deadline.
  5. 5The Foundation automatically matches applicants with eligible scholarships.

Essay Support

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