Chicago Pullman Scholarship 2027: Cook County eligibility, up to $10,000, and deadline

The George M. Pullman Educational Foundation offers a competitive scholarship to high-school seniors who live in Cook County, Illinois, and are beginning a first full-time bachelor’s degree. The 2027 application opens November 1, 2026, and closes February 1, 2027. Awards consider merit and financial need and may be renewed for four years. The foundation profile links to the application, eligibility rules, and program contacts.

Applicants must reside in Cook County, be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, be high-school seniors, and have at least a 3.0 unweighted GPA. They must file the FAFSA and be eligible for federal and state aid; enroll in fall as a full-time student pursuing a first bachelor’s degree at an accredited U.S. bachelor’s-granting institution eligible for Title IV aid. Applicants cannot already be attending college or community college or hold a degree, though the foundation excludes dual-enrollment courses taken as a high-school senior from that restriction.

Incoming first-year scholars may receive up to $10,000, depending on financial need. Support may renew for up to four years or eight semesters of full-time undergraduate study if the scholar remains in good standing and meets foundation terms. The final award considers federal, state, and institutional aid already received; applicants should not treat the maximum as an additional guaranteed payment. The foundation explains that it needs the FAFSA and other grant information to assess each student’s financial position.

The application is fully online and includes three essays plus information about GPA, family income, high-school courses, and activities. Two recommendations are required: one from a teacher and one from an adult familiar with the student’s strengths, growth, or involvement; family members and personal friends are not accepted. Students may apply before receiving a college admission decision, but finalists must verify acceptance and submit their financial-aid package. Additional deadlines may follow for transcripts, interviews, and acceptance letters.

New applicants are expected to hear in mid-May, and the foundation typically awards 25 to 30 new scholarships each year, depending on available funds. Selected scholars must follow the handbook and scholarship agreement and participate in required activities such as the annual symposium. To prepare before November 1, gather FAFSA, academic records, financial information, and recommenders; then save the electronic confirmation. The foundation lists Anne Stretz, Scholarship Program Director, and astretz@pullmanfoundation.org for specific questions.

Apply — George M. Pullman Educational Foundation — George M. Pullman Educational Foundation.

About — George M. Pullman Educational Foundation — George M. Pullman Educational Foundation.

Informational guide based on official sources checked on October 12, 2026. Programs, awards, deadlines, and eligibility may change; confirm the current cycle on the official site before submitting information.