Northwestern Endowed Scholarships

Northwestern’s scholarships and grants can significantly cut down on how much you have to pay out of pocket or with loans. Around 61% of Northwestern undergraduates received a need-based scholarship. The school has a no-loans policy for its financial aid packages. An endowed scholarship is a major gift to a college or university used to fund scholarships. It is offered by a donor's loved one or the donor himself. An endowed scholarship can benefit generations of students.

Eligibility Criteria/ Scholarship Guidelines

Students who are eligible for need-based Northwestern Scholarship may receive a named endowed scholarship. These scholarships are established by individuals who care deeply about the University and its mission. Some donors are NU alumni, who were themselves the beneficiaries of student aid. An endowed scholarship can establish a direct connection between you and the donor; most donors welcome the opportunity to meet or correspond with the students who receive their awards.

Receiving an endowed scholarship doesn’t change your financial aid package — it just replaces part of the Northwestern University Scholarship.

Funds awarded through endowed scholarships replace the amount of any NU grant on a dollar-for-dollar basis based on fund restrictions.

Scholarships are awarded to students who meet the criteria specific to each fund.

No additional application materials are required beyond the regular financial aid application materials. Students are automatically considered for these funds when they apply for financial aid. Selection is based on a student’s match with a donor’s criteria. 

Value
Awards and eligibility criteria vary, though donors typically like to develop relationships with the recipients.

Deadline
October 1