Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois
Up to $2,500 in the first two years and $5,000 in years three through five for 2026–27, subject to appropriation, renewal, and teaching commitment.
About Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois
This teacher-preparation pathway combines scholarship funding with professional experience, coordinated by Golden Apple and Illinois colleges.
ISAC lists residency and student-status requirements, admission to an approved teacher-preparation pathway, and participation in program activities. Cohorts may include high-school applicants and current college students; capacity and documentation vary by year. Recipients must maintain academic progress and attend summer institutes before and during college.
As of October 13, 2026, Golden Apple lists a December 1, 2026 priority date and March 1, 2027 final deadline for the next cohort. Students apply each year through the Foundation; the process includes references, personal statements, a transcript, and an interview. Payment claims for already selected scholars follow a separate calendar: ISAC sets December 31, 2026 for colleges to submit fall 2026–27 claims. Do not confuse that institutional payment step with the student application.
Who it serves and what it can cover: Up to $2,500 in the first two years and $5,000 in years three through five for 2026–27, subject to appropriation, renewal, and teaching commitment.
How to apply or get help: As of October 13, 2026, Golden Apple lists a December 1, 2026 priority date and March 1, 2027 final deadline for the next cohort. Students apply each year through the Foundation; the process includes references, personal statements, a transcript, and an interview. Payment claims for already selected scholars follow a separate calendar: ISAC sets December 31, 2026 for colleges to submit fall 2026–27 claims. Do not confuse that institutional payment step with the student application. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.
Public student financial-aid program