FAFSA, Financial Aid, & Scholarships

Tools for Financing your Education-

• College Budgeting: A Guide for Students
  • College is a great time to learn to have a lot of fun without much money. Make your money go further and learn money management skills for life. Check out the website provided by Academic Influence.
• Learn about federal grants, loans, and work study funds:
  • The office of Federal Student Aid provides grants, loans, and work study funds for college or career school. They provide more than $120 billion in federal student aid each year to help pay for college or career school. Federal Student Aid, a part of the U.S. Department of Education, is the largest provider of student financial aid in the nation. The FSA provides and manages more than $120 billion in federal grants, loans, and work study funds each year to more than 13 million students paying for college or career school
• Making college accessible and affordable for Illinois students:
  • Your one-stop destination for free planning tools and materials. Financial aid night videos, scholarship search, FAFSA 101. Simple and easy to use. Check It Out.
• Paying for school just got easier:
  • Fastweb is a site that matches the information you enter in your profile to scholarship, college, job and internship opportunities. You may use the information that Fastweb provides to apply for scholarships, discover prospective colleges, explore internship possibilities or learn about part-time jobs in your area.
• Scholarships with no personal information required.
  • GoodCall Scholarship Search Engine is one of the largest databases of scholarships on the web. Unlike the others, GoodCall Scholarship Engine requires no personal information and it’s free to use. 
• College comparison tool:
  • College Green Light will connect first generation and underrepresented students to colleges, scholarships and helpful guidance.
• Student Loan Calculator:
  • Use this calculator to estimate your monthly payments on a single federal student loan or private student loan, calculate the total payment on multiple student loans at different interest rates, or calculate the total interest you’ll pay. 
• How to create a great scholarship application:
  • This annual scholarship opportunity serves as a framework for students to succeed on larger stages past high school, in applications for colleges, jobs, and other scholarships. More background on the application and information about applying can be found by clicking on the following; College Student Success Scholarship. 
• Tools to help pay and plan for college:
  • When it comes to paying for college first look for money you won’t have to pay back (scholarships and grants). Then explore federal student loans. Finally, consider a responsible private student loan to cover. Check out this website to help your financial planning; Sallie Mae
• Learn about projected college scholarships as early as 9th grade:
  • Through RaiseMe, students can start learning about projected personal college scholarships as early as 9th grade for good grades, sports, extracurriculars and other achievements.

• Scholarships come from many different entities.
  • Most college scholarships come from the Institution itself.  The school the student applies to and gets accepted to will be the greatest source.
  • Scholarships generated from parent’s employment, family insurance companies, church membership etc. will be your next best bet.  
  • Regional and local scholarships are available to mostly seniors.  You will have to pay attention to local newspapers, radio announcements, FHS 2-minute newsletter, and the scholarship location of this website.  
  • National scholarships can be generated using a variety of search engines. A few have been listed below.
  • Do not pay for any scholarship help or assistance.  It is all out there for free.
• National Scholarship searches.
  • StudentScholarships.org has been providing scholarship information to students since 2003. Our staff spends countless hours searching both online and offline sources to find new and exciting scholarships for students to apply for. The Scholarship Database for Students is considered the largest and most comprehensive source for finding scholarships online and is 100% free for students to use.
  • National scholarships can be generated at www.scholarships.com.  This free website will search over 3.7 millions college scholarships and grants totaling about $19 billion in financial aid to help you pay for college.
  • Going Merry, a free one-stop scholarship search, matches students to scholarships they are eligible for and allows them to apply directly on the website.
  • 8 Best Websites to Find College Scholarships.  Figuring out where to find scholarships shouldn’t be the thing that holds a student back, so here is a list of college scholarship websites to find money for college.
  • GoodCall Scholarship is one of the largest databases of scholarships on the web. Unlike the other search engines, GoodCall Scholarship Engine requires no personal information and it's free to use.
  • For underrepresented and first generation students, College Green Light, is a great web site to colleges, scholarships and has helpful guidance.
  • College Student Success Scholarship, serves as a framework for students to succeed on larger stages past high school, in applications for colleges, jobs, and other scholarships.
  • Between juggling your heavy course load, a part-time job and the distant remains of a social life, searching for scholarships is the last thing you feel like doing - especially because you may assume that, since you're a college student you won't win a scholarship anyway. This is false. College students win scholarships all the time. Seriously, those tuition bills aren’t going to pay themselves and, with the cost of college these days, you need scholarships more than ever. The good news is, Fastweb has done the heavy lifting (searching) for you. Now, all you need to do is apply!
  • Big Future - The College Board College Search & Selection tool. You have taken their tests, now save all your college planning activities by signing into your College Board account and create your road map. Although there’s no magic formula for choosing a college, you can start by asking yourself some questions that help most students find the right fit. Learn about some key college search categories. Answer questions to discover what’s important to you. Get advice from college students and educators.
    • Scholarship Search Use this tool to find scholarships, other financial aid and internships from more than 2,200 programs, totaling nearly $6 billion.

 

Highland Community College

Sauk Valley Community College

Clinton Community College (EICC)

Augustana College

Illinois State University

Northern Illinois University

St Ambrose University

University of Wisconsin-Platteville

University of Dubuque

University of Illinois

Western Illinois University

Click on the heading below (in RED) to access the

WCHS Common Application

 

West Carroll HS Common Application Scholarships

Due the 3rd Friday of March

 

Andrew Reed Memorial: ($500) Awarded to seniors who have written an essay describing how they have demonstrated initiative and integrity in their lives. Scholarship recipients are determined by the Andrew Reed Memorial Foundation.

Charles & Betty Guenzler Scholarship: (Amount of scholarship varies from year to year). Awarded to graduates pursuing a career in nursing or medical-related fields and can be awarded on a recurring basis.  Scholarship recipients are selected by the West Carroll Scholarship Selection Committee.

Gerald Brookhaus: ($250 each) Awarded to a student who is enrolled in a post-secondary program. Scholarship recipients are selected by the High School Scholarship Selection Committee.

Geraldine Mach Brookhaus: ($250 each) Awarded to a student who is enrolled in a program related to the health field. Scholarship recipients are selected by the High School Scholarship Selection Committee.

Jill Iben Memorial Scholarship: ($500) Awarded to seniors who are pursuing a career in the nursing field or a medical related field. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Jill Iben Memorial Selection Committee.  

Min’s Mississippi-Melinda Wilkinson Memorial: Three ($500) scholarships awarded to West Carroll seniors who have been active in school and service organizations, have a 3.0 GPA, and want to use their post-secondary education to “help others”. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Melinda Wilkinson Memorial Selection Committee.

The West Carroll High School Selection Committee is appointed by the building principal.

Click on Scholarship title to access application or website. All links in red are active.

 

Local Scholarships Only Available West Carroll Students

Highland Community College Top Scholars: Awarded to a graduating senior  in the top 10% of the class by the Highland Community College Endowment Foundation. The High School reports the top 10% of the class to Highland, and HCC is the sole determiner of the recipient. Contact the school counselor to learn if you are eligible. Application to HCC due March 1.

Sauk Scholars Award - Students who rank in the top 10% of their class or have earned a SAT of 1340 or better are eligible for this scholarship. Year 1 is free tuition for up to 24 credits. Year 2 is an additional 24 credits, free tuition if a 3.0 GPA was maintained in the first year. The High School reports the top 10% of the class to Sauk Valley, and SVCC is the sole determiner of the recipient. Contact the school counselor to learn if you are eligible.  Application to SVCC due March 1.

 

Sharar Foundation Red & Gold Scholarship: Awarded to a West Carroll HS senior planning on attending Clinton Community College. The student must be graduating in the upper half of their class, participating in one or more student activities in high school, with a recommendation by their HS Counselor. Student interested in being nominated for this scholarship need to let their high school counselor know by February 26.

 

2025 Tom Kustes Memorial FFA Award: ($1,000) Awarded to a senior West Carroll Agriculture/FFA student who intends to prepare for a career relating to agriculture by attending a vocational/technical school, junior college, or 4 year college or university-Scholarship recipients are selected by the Tom Kustes Selection Committee. Application due February 27.

 

Savanna Chamber of Commerce – ($500) – Awarded to a graduating West Carroll senior who is 

entrepreneurial or would like to start a business or pursue a career in business. Scholarship recipients are chosen by a selection committee composed of Savanna Chamber Board members, and local business leaders. Application due March 18.  

 

2025 Shaw Leavens VFW Post #2223 ($500): Awarded to one male and one female student from West Carroll HS. Scholarship recipients are selected by the VFW Post 2223 and applicants are required to write an essay on the 2nd Constitutional Amendment, and complete the application. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

 

2025 American Legion Joint Scholarship Program (Post 148, Post 67, Post 1025): ($500) Six Scholarships will be awarded to West Carroll seniors who enroll in a post-secondary educational program. Scholarship recipients are selected by the American Legion Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Vaughn E. Hungerford Memorial: Awarded to a graduating senior(s) living in Mt. Carroll with a Mt. Carroll address who plans on attending a post-secondary school in a health related field. Scholarship recipients are selected by a committee consisting of the High School principal, a board of education member from either District #1 or #2, and a community member who resides in Mt. Carroll with a Mt. Carroll address and write an essay about goals for going to college, along with the Application. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

 

2025 American Red Cross Blood Donor: ($250-$500) Awarded to a student(s) who volunteer to work  at the FFA sponsored blood drive-scholarship recipients are determined by FFA Advisors and awards are based on number of hours worked and a separate essay is required. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

James Schoenhaar Memorial: ($1,000) Awarded to a senior(s) pursuing a post-secondary education. Scholarship recipients are selected by the James Schoenhaar Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

 

Savanna Moose Lodge #1095 & Moose Legion #57 – (2 @ $500) – One scholarship awarded by the Savanna Moose Lodge and one by the Savanna Moose Legion to a graduating senior who is enrolled in a post-secondary educational program.  Selection is based on community service and volunteer experience.  Preference may be given to a student whose parents or grandparents are members of Savanna Moose Lodge #1095. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Savanna Moose Lodge Board of Directors. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Love Like Libby: Presented in memory of 12 year old West Carroll Middle School student Libby Thulen to seniors who represent kindness, positive outlook, and giving back to the communities they live in-Scholarship recipients are selected by the Love Like Libby Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

Mark and Robin Cook Pay It Forward: Awarded to students who choose a career path in the trades. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Mark and Robin Cook Pay It Forward Selection Committee. Application due the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Lions Clubs of West Carroll: ($500) Awarded by the Lions Clubs in each West Carroll community to seniors who demonstrate leadership, community service, financial need, identified future goals, and scholastic accomplishments-Scholarship recipients are selected by each community’s Lions Club Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Manny’s Pizza: ($500) 2 scholarships awarded to a senior pursuing a 2 or 4 year degree or vocational program-Scholarship recipients are selected by the Manny’s Pizza Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Mitchell Glazier Engineering: ($2000) Awarded to a graduating senior from West Carroll who is pursuing a degree in Engineering. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Mitch Glazier Scholarship Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor on March 15th.

 

2025 Mt. Carroll Rotary: ($500) Awarded to a senior based on academic performance, demonstrated leadership skills, community involvement, school involvement, and identified future goals. Only students who have a primary residence that is within the territory of the original Mt. Carroll School District #304 in 2000 are eligible. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Mt. Carroll Rotary Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

P.E.O. Chapter GA Betty Teeter Scholarship: ($500) Awarded to a graduating female student living in the former Mt. Carroll School District planning on continuing post secondary education in either an academic or vocational program. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Betty Teeter Memorial Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Savanna Ambulance Association – ($500) – Awarded to a graduating senior from the West Carroll High School and planning to further their education in the medical or health field. Only students who are living within the Savanna Fire & Ambulance protection District are eligible.  Scholarship recipients are selected by the Savanna Ambulance scholarship committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Savanna Masonic Lodge #385 – ($500 & $1000) – 2 scholarships will be awarded to a West Carroll senior. 1 for a student who is enrolled in a 2-year or 4 year academic program and 1 student who is enrolled in a Vocational program. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Savanna Masonic Lodge scholarship committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 Savanna Rotary

• Berenice Husse – ($1000) – Given by the Hussey family in honor of Mrs. L.B. Hussey, a former music teacher.                
•  L.B. Hussey – ($1000) – Given by the Hussey family in honor of Dr. Lemuel B. Hussey, long-time Savanna physician and Rotarian.
• Club Scholarship – ($2000) – Based on many factors including:  maturity, commitment to serving society, and grades.  

Scholarship recipients are selected by the Savanna Rotary Selection Committee after reviewing the written application and personal interview. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.          

 

2025 Smaltz-Kness/York Township Scholarship: – (Award dependent on interest rate) – Awarded to graduating seniors who reside in York Township and have lived there for at least one year and will be attending an accredited institution as a full-time student. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Smaltz-Kness/York Township Trustees. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

2025 West Carroll Education Association: ($300) Awarded to two students pursuing a degree in education or similar field of study who also have a minimum 3.0 grade point average and participation in extracurricular activities. Scholarship recipients are selected by the West Carroll Education Association Selection Committee. Application due to the High School Counselor the 3rd Friday of March.

 

Jackson Kradle Memorial Fund Scholarship: ($500) Awarded to two high school seniors who plan to attend a trade school or an auto mechanic program in the fall. Applications are due the 3rd Friday of March.

 

Dicky Doo Ag Scholarship: ($500) Awarded to a high school senior from West Carroll High School who is pursuing a career in an Ag field. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Applications are due by April 1.

 

Dicky Doo FFA Scholarship: ($500) Awarded to a high school senior from West Carroll High School who is a member of FFA and is pursuing a career in an Ag field. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Applications are due by April 1.

 

Farmers National Bank: ($500) Awarded to a high school senior from West Carroll High School. All seniors who are accepted to a college or trade school next fall may apply. Applications are due by April 11 and must be turned in at the FNB location in Mount Carroll.

Clinton Community College Red & Gold – ($1000) Awarded to a West Carroll high school senior graduating in the upper half of their class and participating in one or more student activities in high school. Students who plan on attending CCC need to let the HS counselor know by April 15 to be eligible for this scholarship. 

Educators of Beauty Counselor’s Choice Scholarships – ($1000) This scholarship will be awarded to a student graduating from West Carroll High School who is planning on attending Educators of Beauty next school year. Students who plan on attending EOB need to let the HS counselor know by April 15 to be eligible for this scholarship. 

Morrison Tech Counselor’s Choice Scholarship - ($1000) This scholarship will be awarded to a student graduating from West Carroll High School who is planning on attending Morrison Tech next school year. This scholarship can be divided between more than one student. Students who plan on attending Morrison Tech need to let the HS counselor know by April 15 to be eligible for this scholarship. 

Click on Scholarship title to access application or website.

 

Local and Regional Scholarships Available to West Carroll Students

ISAC Gift Assistance Programs: The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) provides financial aid for college education through the many gift assistance programs that it administers. Gift assistance is awarded in the form of scholarships, grants, tuition waivers and loan repayment programs. As an approved participant in any of the gift assistance programs administered by ISAC, post-secondary institutions may receive funds on behalf of eligible students. Various scholarships and due dates.

 

American Legion Scholarship Programs. (Various scholarships) Applicants must be children or grandchildren of American Legion members and must be in their senior year of high school. Awards may be used to further education at an accredited college, university or technical school. Various Application Due Dates.

 

2025 Greenhouse Scholars of Illinois - Provides comprehensive personal and financial support, including one-on-one mentorship, professional guidance, peer mentorship, leadership training, and a renewable need-based college scholarship of up to $5,000 per year. The Greenhouse Scholar program goes through various rounds, each with a different due date, all of which are listed below:

•      Round 1: Eligibility Survey & Short Response- Deadline November 14, 2024
•      Round 2: Academic Information & Essay Responses- Deadline December 1, 2024
•      Round 3: Video Responses- Deadline January 26, 2025
•      Round 4: Finalists Submit Documentation- Deadline March 17, 2025

Visit the linked website to apply and learn more about what is required of applicants in each round.

 

Golden Apple Scholarship - Do you dream of teaching and giving back? Golden Apple is the answer. Apply to become a Golden Apple Scholar and fulfill your passion for teaching as you become an educator and a force for change in the lives of students across Illinois.  Priority applications are due by December 1. Regular applications are due by April 1.

2025 IEC Memorial Scholarships: Illinois electric cooperatives will award a total of 11 scholarships of $2,000 each will be awarded through the Thomas H. Moore Illinois Electric Cooperatives (IEC) Memorial Scholarship Program. Nine scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors who are the sons or daughters of an Illinois electric cooperative member receiving service from the cooperative. A seventh scholarship, the Earl W. Struck Memorial Scholarship, will be awarded to a student who is the son or daughter of an Illinois electric cooperative employee or director. Four additional scholarships are reserved for students enrolling full-time at a two-year Illinois community college who are the sons or daughters of Illinois electric cooperative members, employees or directors. Deadline for the IEC Memorial Scholarships is December 31.

 

2025 Children of Veterans (COV) Tuition Waiver - The COV award is a four year tuition waiver at the University of Illinois awarded to natural or legally adopted children of service members. Please see application form for eligibility requirements and additional details. Priority date is January 3.

 

2025 Verna Ross Orndorff Essay Contest - Are you the next winner of the Illinois State Historical Society's Essay Scholarship? The ISHS is offering this prestigious award or $1000 for the best 1500 word essay written by an Illinois High School student on the subject of Abraham Lincoln or the Civil War era in Illinois. Applications are due by January 15.

 

2025 Illinois School Counselor Association Post-Secondary Scholarship: Graduating Seniors are eligible for this non-renewable $1,000 scholarship. The scholarship can be used to support the following post-secondary options: 4 year college/university, 2 year college/university, Trade school, Apprenticeship/Vocational program. Application deadline January 17.

 

2025 Illinois Society of Professional Engineers - The Rock River Chapter of the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers (RRC-ISPE) is proud to announce that it is now accepting applications for the annual scholarship(s) given by the organization to the most qualified student(s) entering the field of engineering. This scholarship is for high school seniors who will be enrolling in an engineering program in the fall. Applications are due January 17.

 

2025 Quad City Regional Auto Show - The QC Community Foundations has money for students who are going to college and work or have a parent or guardian who works at a new car dealership. Also, if you want to be trained as an automotive technician, you too, qualify for this scholarship. There are 2 categories for this scholarship, 1) Trade School students and 2) 4-Year College Bound. Applications due January 19.

 

Pearl City Elevator: ($500) Awarding 3 scholarships to graduating seniors and individuals living in Northwest Illinois. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Pearl City Elevator, Inc. Selection Committee.  Application due January 21st. Click on the titles below for applications.

• Jim Vondra Memorial - Graduating senior or previous graduates pursuing higher education.
• Agriculture First - Graduating senior pursuing a 2-Year or 4-Year degree in Livestock Production, Crop Production, or closely related field.
• Trades - Individuals pursuing advanced education in a trades or skilled field. This includes certificate programs designed to develop skills including but not limited to welding, mechanics, aviation, and CDL driving programs.

 

2025 Quad City Engineering and Science Council- program provides multiple one-time grants/scholarships between $1000 and $2500 each for high school seniors pursuing a STEM degree at a 4-year university. These are awarded on an objective basis without regard to race, sex, or religion. Criteria include academics, civic/community service, extracurricular involvement, career goals, and an essay on why you want a STEM degree  Applications are due by January 28.

 

2025 IL Corn Scholarship Program: ($1000) Award to a student pursuing a degree in an agriculture field. Must be an active ICGA member or be sponsored by one. Applications are due by January 31.

 

2025 Carroll County Pheasants Forever: ($600) Awarded to a graduating senior(s) of a Carroll County High School who will be enrolled in a college and pursuing a degree in environmental-related studies or have a passion for the outdoors.   Scholarship recipients are determined by the Pheasants Forever Selection Committee. Applications are due February 1.

 

2025 Quad Cities Community Foundation Scholarships (multiple scholarships) - The Quad Cities Community Foundation administers multiple scholarship funds, all started by donors who want to ensure students are able to continue their education at community colleges and four-year institutions. Over 35 scholarship applications are available through our website. When we include scholarships that are able to be renewed each year students are in school, these applications result in nearly $600,000 in scholarships being distributed by the Community Foundation every year to help students meet their higher education goals. Applications are due by February 15. 

 

2025 IAA Foundation: ($1000-$7500) The IAA Foundation is offering 110 scholarships to Illinois Farm Families, Illinois Farm Bureau members, Spouses, and their children who major in Agriculture, Agribusiness, or an Ag-related course of study. Applications are available on January 1 and must be electronically submitted by February 15.

 

Illinois Pork Producers Scholarships: ($1000-$2000) Multiple scholarships given by the Illinois Pork Producers. These scholarships are for members of the IL Pork Producers Association or a member of 4-H and FFA depending on the scholarship. The earliest application deadline is February 15, others are March 1.

NW Illinois Economic Development: ($1500-$2000) 3 awards to graduating high school seniors from Carroll or Jo Daviess Counties who are entrepreneurial and want to start a business or pursue a career in business. Scholarship recipients are chosen by a selection committee composed of NWILED Board members and a representative from the Cooke Family. Application due February 23.

 

2025 Township Officials of Illinois Scholarship: ($2,000) The TOI awards 7 $2,000 scholarships to local high school graduating seniors. Applications can be mailed or emailed. Application deadline March 1st.

 

2025 Illinois Special Education Teacher Tuition Waiver is available to students who are planning on pursuing a career in special education. The application is anticipated to open in December. Applications must be submitted by March 1.

 

2025 Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship is available to minority students who are planning on pursuing a career in teaching. The application is anticipated to open in December. Applications must be submitted by March 1.

2025 Illinois AMVETS Service Foundation Scholarships: offer 6 scholarships to graduating seniors who have or had parents or grandparents who served in the military. Scholarships available starting in November with a due date of March 1.

 

2025 Jo-Carroll Scholarships: In support of students from our service territory who choose to continue their education, JCE Co-op has the JCE Scholarship Program. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Jo-Carroll Selection Committee  Application due March 1.

• (6) $1000 JCE Co-op Scholarships awarded to outstanding scholastic students who are the sons or daughters of JCE Co-op members.(4) 1,000 Two-year/Technical School Scholarships awarded to outstanding scholastic students who are the sons or daughters of JCE Co-op members.
• (2) $2000 Line worker Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who plan to attend a line worker school. Applicants or their parent/legal guardian must be a cooperative members.
• (10) $500 Director's Scholarships will be awarded by drawings at the cooperative's Annual Meeting of Members (TBD). 

 

Clinton CC Sharar Foundation Scholarships- These scholarships are awarded to students who are planning on attending Clinton Community College. All current and prospective full and part-time (six hours or more) students are considered. Some are based on financial need and or/ academic excellence, and others are based on the degree you are pursuing or the location in which you live. If a student wishes to register for fewer than six hours, and can demonstrate financial need, some scholarship assistance may be available. Scholarship amounts range from $200 to the Honor Scholarships. A cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher is required to be eligible for scholarships. Those individuals with lower GPA’s may wish to explain their special circumstances in the letter addressing the scholarship awarding committee. Applications for fall semester are due by March 1.

 Clinton Community College Metallica Scholars Initiative – This scholarship covers full tuition, fees, books, and equipment for students enrolled in the Engineering Technology program. The scholarship is funded by Metallica's All Within My Hands Foundation and is led by the American Association of Community Colleges. Scholarship recipients are determined by the Paul Sharar Foundation. Application due March 1.

 

Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce: Awarding 6 scholarships to graduating seniors living in the Sauk Valley area. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship committees  Applications are due starting on March 1. 

• Agribusiness Committee Ag. Scholarship - Pursuing a career in the field of Agriculture.
• $1500 to students attending an accredited 4-Year college or university.
• $750 to students attending Sauk Valley Community College
• $750 to students attending an accredited Community College or 2-Year college.
• SVACC Manufacturing - $500 to students attending SVCC or Morrison Tech and pursuing a career in a Manufacturing related field.
• Hispanic Business Leaders - $1000 to a student enrolled in a 4-Year or 2-Year institution. At least one parent must be of Hispanic ancestry.

• • • • • • CDL Scholarship - $750 to students enrolled in the SVCC CDL program. Application deadlines vary based on the program schedule.

Sauk Valley Community College Foundation: Students attending SVCC are encouraged to apply for scholarships. Sauk Valley College Foundation offers scholarships for students of all grade points and financial levels. Visit the website to sign into an SVCC account and explore what opportunities are available. Apply to SVCC by March 1 for the most scholarship opportunities. Various due dates for specific scholarships, mostly March 1.

 

2025 CBAI Foundation for Community Banking: ($500 - $4,000) This essay competition is open to Illinois seniors whose family banks at a CBAI member bank. If interested you will need to contact your bank to see if they are sponsoring students for this scholarship  CBAI banks in our area are the following; Exchange State Bank, Lanark; First State Bank of Shannon-Polo, Shannon; Milledgeville State Bank, Milledgeville; Fidelity Bank, Thomson; The State Bank of Pearl City, Pearl City; . Application due March 3 to your sponsoring bank.

 

Carroll County Farm Bureau Foundation: ($1,000) Awarded to graduates or recent graduates from Carroll County High Schools who are seeking a major in Agriculture, Agribusiness, or an Ag-related field.  Applicants must be a Carroll County Farm Bureau member, spouse, or child of a member.  Scholarship recipients are determined by the Carroll County Farm Bureau. Application due March 3.

Carroll County Farm Bureau - Harold Schmidt Memorial Forestry: ($1,000) Awarded to graduates or recent graduates from Carroll County High Schools who are seeking a major in one of the following fields or related sciences (Forestry, Wood Science, Wildlife Biology, Botany, General Biology, Ag-Related Field at the discretion of the Board of Directors).  Applicants must be a Carroll County Farm Bureau member, spouse, or child of a member.  Scholarship recipients are determined by the Carroll County Farm Bureau. Application due March 3.

Dorothy Footitt Memorial Scholarship: ($800) Awarded to a graduating senior from a Carroll County High School and is named after long-time Carroll County Home Economics Extension Advisor and 4-H leader. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Dorothy Footitt Selection Committee. Applications are due March 7. 

Carroll County/Lois Frank Help Center: ($500) Awarded to graduates or recent graduates from Carroll County High Schools who are seeking to gain training in vocational fields from a 2 year community college or vocational/technical school in hopes that the training will make the recipient a more productive worker in the community. Application due March 4.

 

Andresen Farms: ($1,500) Awarded to a Carroll County student(s) planning to pursue a career in Agriculture or an Ag-related course of study at an accredited Community College, University or Technical School. Given by Harold & Kay Andresen-scholarship recipient is determined by the Andresen Family and a separate application is required. Applications are due March 8.

 

Andresen Memorial: ($1,500) Awarded to a Carroll County student(s) planning to attend an accredited Community College, University or Technical School. Given by Harold & Kay Andresen-scholarship recipient is determined by the Andresen Family and a separate application is required. Applications are due March 8.

 

Kathryn G. Hansen IAP Scholarship: ($500) Awarded to a high school senior who is pursuing a business-related degree. Preference is given to students who plan to attend The University of Illinois. Applications are due by March 12.  

 

2025 Sinnissippi College Scholarship Program: Will award to (4) $1000 scholarships to Northwestern Illinois High School graduates seeking a career in the Human Service field (social work, psychology, sociology or other human service specialties). Students must plan to enroll the beginning in the fall in a full-time course of study at an accredited 2 or 4 Year university in Illinois with the declared major being one that falls within the human services field. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Sinnissippi College Scholarship Selection Committee.  Application due March 14.

 

Carroll County Sheriff’s Scholarship  Each Illinois county that participates in the ISA membership program awards at least one $500 scholarship each school year. The scholarship program is open to Illinois students attending an Illinois higher learning institution. College scholarship applications are available beginning in January each year and winners are announced in May. Applications are due on or before March 14.

 

Tri-County Opportunities Council: This scholarship is available to students from low-income families.  All applicants are required to meet with a member of the Agency staff to review the application and have the income documentation verified.  All applications along with required documentation must be postmarked by March 14.

 

Compeer Financial Scholarship: ($1500) Compeer Financial awards 123 scholarships (41 per state it serves) to students based on a combination of academic achievement, agricultural and community youth organization involvement, and essay response. Each scholarship is for $1,500. Application is due by March 15.

 

American Legion of Illinois Scholarship Committee is awarding two scholarships 1) The American Legion Scholarship Award and 2) The American Legion Trade School Scholarship Award.  Applicants must be children or grandchildren of American Legion Illinois members and must be in their senior year of high school. Awards may be used to further education at an accredited college, university or technical school. Applications are due March 15. 

 

Van Merchant Agriculture & Rural Scholarship: Awarded to Northwestern Illinois High School graduates in the memory of lifelong farmer Van Merchant. The purpose of the grant is to encourage young people to gain the skills necessary to enhance farming and associated services in rural area communities. Scholarship recipients are selected by the Van Merchant Selection Committee.  Application due March 15.        

 

2025 Blackhawk Area Credit Union Scholarship Program will award three $300.00 scholarships for the 2025-2026 school year. Any primary member of BACU with an account in good standing may apply. An individual may join BACU for the sole purpose of eligibility. Eligible members must be a graduating high school student enrolling full-time in an accredited college, university, or vocational-technical school. Applications due March 26.

2025 Carroll County Republican Women: ($500) Awarded to a Carroll County senior who is enrolled in a post-secondary educational program.  Selection is based on community service, leadership, financial need, future goals, and academic achievement.  Scholarship recipients are determined by the Carroll County Republican Women’s Committee. Application due March 28.

 

Midwest Medical Center Scholarship Program (Varies) Multiple scholarships are available. CNA scholarships and medical loan-scholarships. For more information please click on the link. Application due March 28.

 

My Friend's Closet Thrift Shop: (varies) Awarded to high school seniors in northwestern Illinois. Application is open to all students regardless of major. Applications are due March 28. 

Carroll County Livestock Feeders Association: ($500) Awarded to High School graduates of Carroll county who have an agricultural related background. Applicants, parents, or legal guardians must be a Carroll County Livestock Feeders Association member.  Scholarship recipients are determined by the Scholarship Committee of the Carroll County Livestock Feeders Association. Application due March 31.

 

Carroll County Youth-In-Agriculture: ($500) Awarded to graduates or recent graduates from Carroll County High Schools who are currently active members of a Carroll County 4-H Club or FFA chapter and have been active for the past 2 years. Scholarship recipients are determined by the Carroll County Y-I-A scholarship committee. Application due March 31.

 

Carroll County Soil And Water Conservation District: ($500) Awarded to graduates or recent graduates from Carroll County High Schools who are seeking a major in and Agricultural field (Agribusiness, Forestry, Agronomy, Ag-Economics, Natural Resources, Aquaculture, Wildlife Management, Ag-Science etc.)  Scholarship recipients are determined by the Carroll County SWCD scholarship committee. Application due April 1.

 

Highland Community College: Students attending HCC are encouraged to apply for scholarships. Highland Community College offers thousands of dollars in scholarships to students every semester. Finding the right scholarship at highland.edu is quick and easy with their customizable search engine.

Apply to HCC by March 1 for the most scholarship opportunities. A majority of the scholarship applications have a deadline of April 1. 

 

Adkins Energy: ($1000) Awarded to anyone actively pursuing higher education based on academic achievement, financial impact, and an essay. A scholarship committee will review all applicants to make a final decision. Applications are due April 1.

 

CSB Scholarship: ($500) Awarded to High School students in northwestern Illinois based on academic achievements, community service,  and extracurricular activities. For students planning to attend a 2 or 4-year college. Applications are due by April 11.

 

Growmark Foundation Scholarship: (varies) Awarded to students who are pursuing a degree in Ag or Business. Applications are due April 11.

Music Scholarship Aid Auditions: ($250-$500) Awarded to graduating high school seniors who reside in the following IL Counties: Carroll, Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, DeKalb, Whiteside, or Lee and Rock, Green or Lafayette counties in Wisconsin. Students will audition for Judges from the Stateline Music Foundation and must be enrolling in a music major curriculum at a 2-Year, or 4-year college. Scholarship recipients are selected by Judges from the Stateline Music Foundation. For Applications and more information, please contact Kenneth Drake at [email protected] Application due March 28. 

 

 

Grain and Feed Association of Illinois Scholarships: ($3500 and $5000) Two different scholarships. High school seniors can apply to both, the Industry Immersion Scholarship and the Country Grain Elevator Management Scholarship. These scholarships are for students who want to work in agriculture and are interested in the grain handling and feed industry. Applications are due by April 15.

 

Rock River Human Resources Professional Association: ($500) Awarded to a student who is studying business, human resources, or communications. While the scholarship says students in Ogle, Whiteside, and Lee counties, Carroll County students are also eligible because the scholarship is also for those in surrounding communities. Applications are due by April 15.

 

Cyrus Lodge #188 Awarded Ancient Free & Accepted Masons: ($1000) Awarded to a Carroll County senior who plans to enroll in a college, trade school, or another form of higher education. Each winner will have an opportunity to have their scholarship amount matched by the Illinois Masonic Children's Assistance Program.  Scholarship recipients are determined by the Cyrus Lodge #188 Scholarship Committee. Applications are due May 1.

Rorrie Joseph Kramer Scholarship: (TBD) This scholarship will be awarded to a qualified student or students who are planning to attend college after high school graduation. The number and amount of scholarships given is dependent on club resources. Scholarship committee reviews every submitted application and screens for those it wishes to interview. Applications are due by May 27.

 

Freeport Memorial Alumni Scholarship: This scholarship is meant to help cover the cost of pursuing a career in nursing. Applicants must be accepted into a nursing program or pursuing advanced nursing education. Applications are due June 1st. 

 

Freeport Health Network: - FHN is offering multiple scholarships for students in their service area who are pursuing careers in Healthcare. Each scholarship has different application criteria. Scholarship recipients are selected by the FHN Human Resources Selection Committee. Applications are due September 6.

• (3) $1000 Healthcare Career 
• (1) $1000 Volunteer Resources 
• (1) $1000 Diversity Healthcare Career

 

CGH Health Foundation Nursing - Available to students living in Carroll, Bureau, Lee, Oble and Whiteside County. Scholarship recipients are selected by the CGH Health Foundation Selection Committee  Applications are due September 15.

• (3) $3000 Althea Larson Nursing Scholarship
• (1) $1000 Edgar and Florence Hall Nursing Scholarship
• (2) $3000 Sterling Rock Falls Community Trust Scholarship (Nursing)
• (1) $1000 Marietta and Bill Lilly Healthcare Scholarship

Click on Scholarship title to access application or website.

2024/2025 Sallie Mae Sweepstakes - You can win $2000 for college by simply registering for Sallie Mae's free "College Planning Tools". Sallie Mae will conduct monthly drawings to select winners of this scholarship.

2025 STEM Scholarships for LGBTQ+ LGBTQ+ students encounter many unique hurdles as they navigate college programs. LGBTQ+ STEM majors face a lack of representation and financial barriers. There are organizations that offer scholarships to encourage more LGBTQ+ students to get into STEM. Check out the link to find the best scholarships for LGBTQ+ STEM students and their allies. Multiple scholarships with varied due dates.

2025 College Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Bestcolleges.com has provided a general LGBTQ+ scholarship resource with several unique scholarships to provide additional financial support. Multiple scholarships with varied due dates.

2025 Hispanic Heritage Foundation Youth Awards honors Latino high school seniors who excel in the classroom and community and for their excellence in various categories including: Business & Entrepreneurship, Community Service, Education, Engineering, Green Sustainability, Healthcare & Science, Media & Entertainment, Public Service & Social Justice, and Technology. Applications are due no later than November 3.

2025 Cooke College Scholarship Program is an undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend and graduate from the nation's best four-year colleges and universities. Applications are due by November 13.

2025 Hagan Scholarship- The Hagan Scholarship is a nationwide need-based merit scholarship, providing recipients with the opportunity to grade college debt-free. The scholarship provides up to $7,500 each semester for 8 consecutive semesters. Free workshops, free brokerage accounts, and free study abroad provide recipients with practical understanding of important life skills not typically covered in school curriculum. Applications are due by December 1.

2025 The Point Flagship Scholarship- Empowers LGBTQ students who are earning their undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees at accredited colleges in the United States. Renewable for up to four years. Awards vary based upon financial needs. Applications are due by December 8.

2025 Burger King Scholarships is open to High School Seniors who are US citizens, have 2.5 GPA or higher, work experience and community involvement.  Winners can receive between $1000-$50,000. Applications are due by December 15. 

2025 Equitable Excellence Scholarship offers college scholarships of $5,000 and $2,500 high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in their activities in school, the community or the workplace. Applications are due by December 18.

2025 Flavorful Futures Scholarship is a $5000 scholarship awarded to a graduating senior. Students must have a GPA of at least 2.5 and can be applied towards part-time or full-time study at any college, university, trade or vocational school.  There are 2 scholarships that students can apply for, the Flavorful Futures and Go Green scholarship. The latter is for a high school student whose educational pursuits are geared towards building a more sustainable future. Applications are due January 31.

2025 Bezos Scholars Program - A leadership experience that lasts. There’s no experience like the Bezos Scholars Program— a transformative, year-long, no-cost leadership development program that amplifies youth voice and action so young people with passion can start making a difference today. Each year, 17 exceptional juniors, 12 from the U.S. and 5 from Africa, along with educators from each of their schools, are selected as Bezos Scholars. At the center of the program are Community Change Projects—fresh, achievable, and sustainable approaches to solving urgent problems, conceived and launched by Scholars with our support. Student scholars receive leadership training from noted experts along with free college advising and tutoring and $1,000 to fund their projects for up to three years. Applicants must be in their junior year of high school at the time of applying, have taken one or more AP or college-level course and have availability to participate in a year-long program and attend all dates for a summer trip June 23- June 29, 2023. Applications are due by January 12.

2025 Asian and Pacific Islander American (APIA)Scholars Based in Washington, D.C., APIA Scholars is the nation's largest 501(c)(3) nonprofit provider of college scholarships for Asian and Pacific Islander American students. APIA Scholars provides scholarships to APIA students pursuing an undergraduate degree at a U.S. accredited college or university.. Applications are due January 15. 

2025 Profile in Courage Essay Contest - This contest is open to any 9-12 student. Students are expected to respond to the following prompt in 700-1000 words: Describe and analyze an act of political courage by a US elected official who served during or after 1917.  Essays are due by January 17.

2025 Future of STEM Scholars Initiative for students attending HBCUs - The Chemical Industry Council of Illinois (CICI) is offering a $10,000 scholarship per year to students pursuing STEM degrees at Historically Black Colleges or Universities. Students should have an interest in pursuing a career in chemical manufacturing, engineering, environmental health and sustainability or other related chemical-industry fields.  The application is due no later than January 31.

2025 USDA 1890 National Scholars Program  - High school and current college students are eligible to apply for the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program which provides full tuition, fees, books, room and board, and a summer internship which may convert to full-time employment with USDA after graduation. The scholarship is open to students pursuing an agriculture or agriculture-related bachelor's degree at one of the nineteen 1890 Land-Grant Universities. All applications must be submitted by January 31.

2025 USDA 1994 Tribal Scholars Program  - High school and current college students are eligible to apply for the USDA 1994 Tribal Scholars Program which provides full tuition, fees, books, room and board, and a summer internship which may convert to full-time employment with USDA after graduation. The scholarship is open to students pursuing an agriculture or agriculture-related bachelor's degree at one of the 35 1994 Land-Grant Institutions. All applications must be submitted by January 31.

2025 VFW Continuing Education Scholarship - Open to any Auxiliary member (who has been a member for at least a year), or their spouse, son or daughter with a financial need. Entrant must be at least 18 years old. Applications are due by February 15.

2025 Horatio Alger Scholarships - As one of the nation’s largest need-based college scholarship programs in the country, the Horatio Alger Scholarship Programs specifically assist high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives. While many programs are directed primarily to recognizing academic achievement or leadership potential, the Horatio Alger Association seeks students who have exhibited determination, integrity, and perseverance in overcoming adversity, as well as have critical financial need. Applications for the Undergraduate Scholarship is March 1 and June 15 for the Career & Technical Scholarship. 

Singles in Agriculture Ag Scholarship: ($250) Two $250 scholarships are awarded to high school seniors across the country. This scholarship is designed for seniors majoring in agriculture, agribusiness, or ag related course of study in college. Applications are due March 1st. 

2025 World Class Scholarship Program - Mediacom Communications is offering 55 - $1000, non-renewable scholarships. It is not required that the applicants be a Mediacom customer. All completed scholarship applications must include an essay on leadership, a high school transcript, and two recommendation forms. Applications are due March 14.

2025 Questbridge Scholarship - Questbridge is a nationally recognized nonprofit that helps outstanding students from low-income backgrounds dream big and realize that a top college is possible . Applications are due by September 26. 

2025 Coca-Cola Scholars - The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to graduating high school seniors. Students are recognized for their capacity to lead and serve, as well as their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities. Awards Available: 150. Applications are due by September 30.

2025 Wendy's HS Heisman - Applying for the Wendy’s High School Heisman is your chance to earn a scholarship toward college, as well as local, state, and national recognition for all that you’ve put into your high school career. If you’ve maintained at least a B average, participate in at least one eligible sport, are a leader in your community and role model at your school, then you’ve got what it takes to be a Wendy’s High School Heisman. Applications are due by October 19.

Scholarship due date has expired/ Not been updated for 2025:

2024 EEqual Scholarship Awards Program - This scholarship covers eligible educational expenses, up to $8,000. Selected students can use the scholarship for any type of higher education, including but not limited to community college classes, trade school/trade certifications, bachelor's degrees, and so on. In addition, students are eligible to apply if: they are experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity as defined under the McKinney-Vento Act, are in extreme poverty, or their family is currently going through a transition to attain post-secondary education. Applications open in November 2023 and have closed in March in previous years.

2023-2024 Eugene McDermott Scholars Program - This scholarships offer a full-ride to University of Texas at Dallas ( to top students who are seeking academic engagement, leadership development, and then challenges of direct service in the community. Students must first submit a complete application to UT Dallas including academic transcript, essay, resume, and recommendations, then must be invited to submit a complete McDermott application with two recommendations. Applications are due by November 1, 2023 but should be submitted well before the deadline.

2024 Christian Leadership Award is a $1,500 towards the cost of tuition at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Indiana University and Purdue University. Applicants should be male, confirmed members of a Lutheran congregation and starting college in the Fall of 2023. Due by March 29th.

Stand for the Silent Scholarship- In 2010, Stand for the Silent was founded when my wife Laura and I lost our son Ty Smalley. At eleven years old, Ty took his own life after being suspended from school for retaliating against a bully. In remembrance of our son, we have established the Ty Smalley Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $5,000. Applications are due by March 31st. 

2024 The Organization of Latino Actuaries (OLA) furthers its mission of increasing the number of Latine actuaries by awarding academic scholarships to Latines who will be attending a US college/university next school year and are interested in the actuarial profession.   The scholarship applications are open until March 31. Applications are evaluated on various criteria including, but not limited to, academic performance, commitment to pursuing the actuarial profession, exam progress, work experience, and leadership experience. Finalists for both the named and general scholarships are expected to be selected by mid-June.

2024 Cobell Scholarship program provides elevated opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native college students by empowering them with an engaging scholarship experience designed to support their success in higher education. Vocational, undergraduate, and graduate-level students are encouraged to apply. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. federally recognized tribe and be attending a nonprofit institution. Applications are due by March 31.

2024 Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarships are available to individuals studying eligible engineering or computer science majors, who demonstrate financial need and come from underrepresented or underserved communities. 200 renewable $10,000 scholarships will be awarded. That is $40,000 over four years to help deserving students achieve their goals. Applications are due no later than April 1. 

2024 American Indian Science and Engineering Society AISES is a national, nonprofit organization focused on substantially increasing opportunities for American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, First Nations, and other Indigenous peoples of North America in STEM studies and careers. One of the ways AISES strives to meet their mission is through the numerous scholarships that are provided for AISES members (membership is free to all pre-college and college students). AISES scholarships are all merit-based and range from $1,000 to $10,000 an academic year and are available at the college and graduate level. Multiple applications are due at various times. Apply for AISES membership (it is free) by April 30.