The Golden Apple Scholars Program in Illinois offers financial support of up to $23,000 to students pursuing careers in teaching in underserved Illinois schools.
Scholarship Details
- The Golden Apple Scholars Program has chapters in Illinois, Michigan, and New Mexico
- Ensure you fill out the correct application form for your state
- In addition to financial aid, winners receive mentoring, teaching experience, and job placement assistance
Eligibility Criteria
- High school senior or college freshman or sophomore at partner universities
- US resident (citizen, noncitizen, or DACA)
- Resident of Illinois
- Upon receipt:
- Hold a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Comply with ISAC program requirements and code of conduct
- Receive a Bachelor's degree from a partner university
- Illinois teaching certification
- Within 7 years of college graduation, teach for at least 5 years in an approved Illinois school
Application Process
- Gather all required documents, including:
- References
- Personal statements
- Unofficial transcripts
- ACT or SAT scores (required for home school students, optional for others until acceptance)
- Fill out the application on the Golden Apple Scholars Program in Illinois website
- Submit the application and all required documents before the deadline
- Participate in an interview process
The Golden Apple Scholars Program aims to ease the teacher shortage in Illinois, especially at underserved schools. Scholars have a hand in making a real change at schools-of-need.