News
U. of I. Junior Awarded $30,000 Truman Scholarship in 2025
Four Illinois students receive Goldwater scholarships in 2026
Illinois is a 25-year top producer of Gilman Scholars
What’s the National and International Scholarships Program?
The National and International Scholarships Program, often referred to affectionately as “Topscholars,” assists University of Illinois students in making the most of their time at Illinois and applying for nationally competitive scholarships.
Our PhilosophyOur program administers nationally competitive awards for University of Illinois students and alumni. Opportunities include undergraduate and graduate study, research, and teaching—often in foreign countries. We also provide advice and feedback for candidates throughout the application process, helping you to become more competitive for scholarships.
Interested individuals—from freshmen to recent alumni—are encouraged to make an appointment to discuss these opportunities.
Information Sessions:
Junior/Senior Information Sessions
Freshmen/Sophomore Information Sessions
Monday, March 30, 3:30pm – 4:00pm Online – Registration
Tuesday, March 31, 3:30pm – 4:00pm In Person – Room #514 IUB
Wednesday, April 1, 2:00pm – 2:30pm Online – Registration
Wednesday, April 1, 3:00pm – 3:30pm In Person – Room #514 IUB
Thursday, April 2, 3:00pm – 3:30pm Online – Registration
Friday, April 3, 9:00am – 9:30am Online – Registration
How we define winners
“Thank you for all you’ve done in helping shape who I am. I’ve had some of the most amazing experiences of my life thanks to you. I’m excited to see what’s to come for me.”
Did You Know?
- Illinois students have earned more Churchill Scholarships than applicants from any other public university, including one in 2026.
- Illinois students have earned the second most Marshall Scholarships among public university students.
- Illinois students have earned Goldwater Scholarships at a 70% clip (20% of nominees nationally awarded), including all of our nominees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
- Illinois students perennially earn Fulbright Scholarships ranking Illinois among the top producers of Fulbright Students.
- Illinois students earn Udall Scholarships or Honorable Mention nearly every year.
- In 2025, Illinois students were #1 in number of UK Summer Fulbright Awards and in the top ten nationally in Voyager Scholarships and Gilman Scholarships in the spring. We also had a Rhodes finalist, two Boren Scholars, two Critical Language Scholars, 5 students offered Fulbright Grants, and a Truman Scholar.
