Loyola University Chicago Scholarships (2026–2027)
← Back to college scholarships hub • See Illinois aid & Grants
Last Updated on June 1, 2026
What This Page Covers:- Tuition, housing, and average family net price
- Automatic merit ranges and qualifier benchmarks
- Flagship and hidden-gem awards
- Honors and stacking strategy
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~82%
- Middle 50% ACT: 30
- Middle 50% SAT: 1265
- Average GPA: 3.91
🧭 Quick Admissions Strategy (based on where your student falls)
- Below the typical ranges: Loyola is still very attainable, but you’ll want a solid GPA (ideally 3.5+) and a clean application. This is a good “value target” school if merit matters.
- In the typical ranges: This is your sweet spot. Loyola is known for strong automatic merit — focus on applying early and making sure your academic profile is clearly presented.
- Well above the ranges: This is where Loyola can really pay off. Top students can push toward the upper end of the $14K–$31K range and may get invited to compete for full-tuition awards.
Comparing multiple schools?
Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 Loyola University Chicago at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Ignatian Scholarship & National Merit / National Achievement Finalist Scholarship)
Average Net Price
$35,196/year
Average paid.
Automatic Merit
$14,000–$34,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
21 opportunities
4 automatic · 9 competitive · 8 hidden gem
Merit Evaluation
Holistic Review / Varies
Merit depends on profile rigor.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Dec 1 • FAFSA: Mar 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Ignatian Scholarship & National Merit / National Achievement Finalist Scholarship
Honors College
Honors Program Available
Financial Aid Forms
FAFSA Only
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at Loyola University Chicago (Read This First)
- The full-tuition Ignatian Scholarship is invite-only and highly competitive — most students, even strong ones, will not receive it.
- Priority timing matters — applying earlier (around Dec 1–Feb 1) helps maximize merit consideration and scholarship potential.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — Loyola University Chicago is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 30; SAT: 1265.
Average net price? About $35,196/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
No — private school; same rate for all.
💰 Cost of Attendance at Loyola University Chicago 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
| Category (2026–2027) |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters) |
$56,060 |
$56,060 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$18,480 |
$18,480 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$74,540 |
$74,540 |
Average Federal Net Price: $35,196 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Regional Discounts: Loyola is a private Jesuit university and does not participate in MSEP, WUE, or state reciprocity programs. All students pay the same tuition rate.
However, Illinois residents may qualify for the MAP Grant (Monetary Award Program), and ROTC scholarships can offset tuition and housing costs. See the Hidden Gems section for more.
FAQ
Who qualifies for reciprocity programs here?
None—private institutions like Loyola charge one tuition rate for all students.
So how can families cut the cost?
Through automatic merit scholarships, full-tuition competitive awards, Illinois MAP need-based grants, and ROTC or donor-funded stipends.
Do I have to apply separately for aid like MAP?
Yes. The MAP Grant is awarded via the FAFSA/ISAC process, while Loyola merit scholarships are automatic with admission.
Sources:
University COA page — https://www.luc.edu/finaid/undergraduate/tuitionandfees/
Housing & Meal Rates — https://www.luc.edu/reslife/currentstudents/ratesandmealplans/
Illinois MAP Grant — https://www.isac.org/students/during-college/types-of-financial-aid/grants/monetary-award-program/
College Scorecard — https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?146719-Loyola-University-Chicago=
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Automatic
Presidential Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
$28,000–$34,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with federal and state grants and outside private scholarships. The ceiling to know: all Loyola tuition-restricted funds combined cannot exceed the cost of tuition.
💡
Strategic Detail
Top tier of Loyola's automatic freshman merit scholarship grid (Presidential, Damen, Loyola, Trustee, Dean, Regent's). The full range for entering Fall 2026 students runs $14,000–$34,000 per year, and this tier sits at the high end. No separate application needed — your admission file is your scholarship application.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
The strongest academic admits in the incoming class — students who loaded up on challenging coursework and earned outstanding grades throughout high school.
Automatic
Damen & Trustee Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
$24,000–$27,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with federal/state grants and private outside scholarships. Total Loyola tuition-restricted aid across all sources cannot exceed tuition charged.
💡
Strategic Detail
Mid-to-upper tier of Loyola's automatic freshman merit grid. The full scholarship range for Fall 2026 entrants runs $14,000–$34,000 per year; the Damen and Trustee awards typically fall in the $24,000–$27,000 band. Your admission application is your scholarship application.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Above-average academic admits with strong GPAs and a rigorous high school curriculum — students who land in the solid upper-middle band of Loyola's incoming class.
Automatic
Loyola, Dean & Regent's Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
$14,000–$23,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with federal/state grants and private outside scholarships. Total Loyola tuition-restricted aid cannot exceed tuition charged.
💡
Strategic Detail
Entry tiers of Loyola's automatic freshman merit grid — the Loyola, Dean, and Regent's awards. The full scholarship range for Fall 2026 runs $14,000–$34,000 per year; this tier covers the $14,000–$23,000 band. Still a substantial award, and it renews all four years as long as your student stays full-time with a 2.0 GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted students with solid college-prep academic records — a good GPA and a challenging course load will put your student in the running for meaningful tuition support from day one.
Automatic
Catholic Heritage Award (incl. Jesuit Heritage Award)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-restricted award that stacks with other Loyola merit and federal/state aid, subject to the standard rule that total tuition-restricted funds cannot exceed tuition charged.
💡
Strategic Detail
A loyalty-to-mission award for incoming freshmen from Catholic high schools in Loyola's home dioceses. If your student attended a Jesuit high school in Chicago specifically, they receive the Jesuit Heritage Award version of this same recognition. Both are tuition-restricted and renewable for four consecutive years of full-time enrollment. Award amount not publicly listed — contact the Financial Aid Office for current figures.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: New freshmen graduating from a Catholic high school in the Archdiocese of Chicago or Diocese of Joliet. Chicago Jesuit HS grads receive the Jesuit Heritage Award variant instead.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Award ranges depend on GPA, test scores (if submitted), and academic rigor. Estimates (*) are based on Loyola’s admitted-student profile since exact cutoffs aren’t published. All awards are tuition-only.
Do I need a separate application?
No. If you apply for admission by the priority dates (Dec 1 recommended, admitted by Feb 1), you’re automatically considered.
Is Loyola test-optional, and do they superscore?
Yes, Loyola is test-optional. If you choose to submit scores, they will superscore both the SAT and ACT, taking your highest section scores from all dates.
Can I stack these scholarships with other aid?
You may combine these merit awards with need-based state/federal grants (MAP, Pell) or outside private scholarships, but you cannot exceed tuition with combined Loyola tuition-only funds.
How long do these scholarships last?
Scholarships renew for up to 8 semesters (4 years), as long as you maintain a 2.0 GPA and 12+ credit full-time enrollment each semester.
Sources:
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/scholarships/
https://www.luc.edu/undergrad/financialaid/merit/
https://www.luc.edu/undergrad/financialaid/deadlines/
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
These awards require extra steps (application, nomination, or interview) and have limited slots. They are separate from automatic merit and do not include Honors-specific or departmental scholarships (those appear in their own sections).
Full TuitionApp Required
Ignatian Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Full-tuition award that replaces Loyola's automatic merit scholarships. Can still be paired with outside private aid and need-based grants up to the full cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Submit your Application for Undergraduate Admission; top academic admits receive an invitation directly from Loyola. Invited candidates must participate in an in-person interview with faculty and administrators in late March.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing exceptional academics, leadership, service record, and in-person interview performance.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Loyola's flagship merit award — invite-only, full tuition, renewable for four years. Students cannot apply directly; Loyola identifies and invites the strongest admitted candidates. If your student receives an Ignatian invitation, it's worth clearing the calendar for the late-March in-person interview day.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A small, elite group of incoming freshmen who stand out not just academically but in leadership and service — and who make a strong impression in the face-to-face interview process.
Full TuitionApp Required
National Merit / National Achievement Finalist Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition
✘ Not stackable
👥 ~1 full-tuition; unlimited $2,000 awards for remaining eligible finalists winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
The full-tuition award replaces Loyola automatic merit scholarships for the one selected recipient. Other eligible finalists who do not receive the full-tuition award receive a Loyola-sponsored $2,000 scholarship instead. Both are subject to standard tuition caps.
📄
How to Apply
Be admitted as an incoming freshman and be named a National Merit or National Achievement Finalist. Name Loyola University Chicago as your first-choice institution with the National Merit Corporation. Submit a copy of your award letter from the National Merit Corporation to scholarfinaid@luc.edu by March 1.
Selection criteria: Committee review of admission application, writing sample, and transcript for the full-tuition award; all other finalists automatically receive the $2,000 Loyola-sponsored scholarship.
💡
Strategic Detail
Two-tier structure: one full-tuition scholarship is awarded to a single National Merit or National Achievement Finalist selected by committee; all other qualifying finalists receive a $2,000 Loyola-sponsored award. Both require designating Loyola as first-choice with the National Merit Corporation and submitting the award letter by March 1. Renewal requires maintaining a 2.0 cumulative GPA. Questions? Email scholarfinaid@luc.edu.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: National Merit and National Achievement Finalists who designate Loyola as first-choice with the National Merit Corporation and submit their award letter by March 1. One student receives the full-tuition award; all other eligible finalists receive the $2,000 Loyola-sponsored scholarship.
App Required
Martin J. Svaglic Humanities Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.8+ GPA👥 ~2 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition-restricted competitive award; may stack with Loyola merit and federal/state aid subject to standard tuition caps.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission and be admitted as a freshman or transfer student in an eligible humanities major. Access the Svaglic Scholarship application through your admitted student portal and submit by March 3. Contact the Undergraduate Admission Office at (800) 262-2373 or admission@luc.edu with questions.
Selection criteria: Academic achievement and demonstrated commitment to the humanities; reviewed holistically via application materials.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Two scholarships awarded annually to qualified new freshmen or transfer students entering one of Loyola's humanities disciplines: Art History, Classical Studies, Dance, English and Creative Writing, Fine and Performing Arts, French, History, Italian, Latin, Music, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Spanish, Theatre, Theology, and Visual Communications. Requires a minimum 3.8 cumulative GPA. Application available in the admitted student portal — deadline is March 3. Award amount not publicly listed; contact Admission for current figures.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving new freshmen and transfer students in the humanities — think 3.8+ GPA — who are genuinely passionate about their field and make a compelling case in the application.
App Required
Rachel Carson Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
Non-Renewable
👥 ~4 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Program award covering specific LUREC May session costs; may stack with standard Loyola merit and federal/state aid for the academic year.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission and be admitted as a first-year student in an eligible environmental major. Submit the Rachel Carson Scholars application by March 16. Contact the Undergraduate Admission Office at (773) 508-3075 or admission@luc.edu with questions.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing passion for environmental studies and field-based research; up to 4 scholars selected.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A standout experiential award for incoming environmental majors — up to four scholars are selected each year. Each recipient gets full tuition, room, and board covered for two May session courses held at Loyola's Retreat and Ecology Campus (LUREC), plus access to exclusive scholar events. Eligible majors include Environmental Science (all B.S. concentrations), Environmental Studies, Environmental Policy, and Environmental Economics and Sustainability. Application deadline is March 16.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-year students majoring in an environmental field who have a clear passion for field-based ecological study and want an immersive residential learning experience at Loyola's Retreat and Ecology Campus.
App Required
School of Education Half-Tuition Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
👥 ~2 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
This scholarship may not be combined with another Loyola academic award and will replace any previously awarded merit scholarship. May still stack with federal/state aid and outside private scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply and be admitted as an incoming freshman to the School of Education. Complete the School of Education scholarship application found in your admitted student status page and submit by March 1. Selected finalists will be required to complete an interview.
Selection criteria: Selection based on academic achievement, commitment to education as a field, leadership potential, and interview performance.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Two half-tuition scholarships for incoming freshmen entering the School of Education. Recipients are expected to serve as leaders in the School of Education through committee participation and school events. Important stacking note: this award replaces any previously awarded Loyola merit scholarship rather than stacking on top. Application is through the admitted student status page; deadline is March 1.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming School of Education freshmen who show exceptional academic potential and leadership in the classroom — and who make a strong case in the interview that they'll step up as leaders within the School of Education community.
App Required
Cristo Rey Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Mid-April
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Cohort award that stacks with Loyola merit and need-based aid, subject to standard tuition and cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Apply and be admitted as a freshman by Feb 1. Submit the Cristo Rey Scholars Program application by March 2. Selected finalists will be invited to a virtual interview in late March. Scholarship recipients are notified by mid-April.
Selection criteria: Holistic review of academics, work-study performance, leadership, community engagement, financial need, and virtual interview.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
A competitive cohort program exclusively for graduates of Cristo Rey Network schools. The program begins the summer before freshman year and wraps students in academic, social, spiritual, and professional support throughout college. Award amounts vary; the program includes mentoring and community programming beyond the financial component. Virtual finalist interviews are held in late March, with decisions by mid-April.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Graduates of Cristo Rey Network high schools who combine strong academics, work-study performance, and a demonstrated commitment to leadership and community — and who interview well in the virtual finalist round.
App Required
David Prasse Community Schools Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
👥 ~5 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award amounts vary; stacks with Loyola merit and federal/state aid. Filing the FAFSA is strongly recommended to maximize the full package including Illinois MAP grants.
📄
How to Apply
Be admitted to Loyola as an incoming student and graduate from Senn High School by the summer term. Access the application through your admitted student status page and submit by March 1. Filing the FAFSA is strongly encouraged to also qualify for Illinois MAP grant funding.
Selection criteria: Selective process based on academic achievement, community engagement, and financial need; five awards given.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A community-partnership scholarship offering five awards of varying amounts to admitted students from Senn High School in Chicago. Undocumented students are explicitly invited to apply. Recipients engage in a structured program supporting their academic, social, spiritual, and professional growth throughout college. Application is accessed via the admitted student status page; deadline is March 1. Filing the FAFSA early is strongly encouraged to layer in additional state aid.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted students who graduate from Senn High School in Chicago — including undocumented students, who are explicitly welcome to apply. Five awards are available annually through a selective process.
App Required
Gannon Scholars (Women & Leadership)
📅 Deadline: Dec 1 · 📢 Results: Semi-finalist notification in early March; final decisions in early April.
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
👥 ~10 winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Generally stacks with Loyola automatic merit awards, subject to standard tuition caps. Renewal requires active participation in the Gannon Scholars Leadership Program each year.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission and submit the Gannon Scholars application by Feb 1. Semi-finalists are notified in early March and must complete an interview — either on campus or via Zoom during Loyola Weekend. Final decisions are communicated in early April. Contact the Gannon Center at gannoncenter@luc.edu with any questions.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing leadership record, service, commitment to women's leadership, and interview performance.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Ten $8,000 per year scholarships awarded annually through the Gannon Center for Women and Leadership. The award is renewable for three additional years based on active participation in the Gannon Scholars Leadership Program. Application deadline is Feb 1; semi-finalist interviews (on-campus or Zoom) take place during Loyola Weekend in early March. Questions? Reach out to gannoncenter@luc.edu.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Women with a genuine record of leadership and service who can articulate how they'd advance the mission of the Gannon Center for Women and Leadership — and who make a strong impression in the interview round.
App Required
Jesuit / BVM / Sisters of Christian Charity High School Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Dec 1
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Half-tuition award; interacts with other Loyola merit awards subject to tuition caps. Full-tuition awards like the Ignatian would supersede this scholarship.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission and be admitted as a freshman. Your high school principal or their designate must submit a nomination form to Loyola by March 20 — nomination forms are sent directly to eligible schools in January. Only one student per school may be nominated.
Selection criteria: Principal-nominated; selection emphasizes academics, service, and leadership among nominees from eligible Catholic high schools.
💡
Strategic Detail
Half-tuition scholarship for graduates of Jesuit, BVM (Blessed Virgin Mary), and Sisters of Christian Charity high schools across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Each eligible school may nominate exactly one student. Nomination forms are mailed to schools in January; the submission deadline is March 20. Candidates must have at least a 3.0 GPA and be nominated by their principal or designate — students cannot self-apply.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: The single student nominated by their principal from each eligible Jesuit, BVM, or Sisters of Christian Charity high school — typically the standout academic and service leader in the senior class with at least a 3.0 GPA.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Notes: Competitive awards require early action, nominations, or interviews. Selection emphasizes academics and service/leadership fit. GPA/test bands are estimates based on admitted-student profiles and program history.
Are these stackable with automatic merit?
Full-tuition awards (like Ignatian) replace lesser merit awards. Other competitive awards may reduce or combine with automatic scholarships depending on tuition caps.
Do I need to visit campus for an interview?
For Ignatian and some cohort programs, finalists are invited for in-person or virtual interviews in spring.
When should I apply?
Apply for admission by December 1 for priority merit consideration. Most program applications close February–March.
Sources:
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/scholarships/
https://www.luc.edu/undergrad/financialaid/competitive/
https://luc.academicworks.com/
https://www.luc.edu/gannon/
https://www.luc.edu/scholarships/cristorey/
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
These awards don’t always make the front page of admissions brochures, but they can make a real difference for certain groups of students. They include need-based aid, ROTC benefits, research stipends, and identity-based awards.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Loyola Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (LUROP)
📅 Deadline: Mar 1 (LUROP application)
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
LUROP stipend and project funding stack with merit scholarships and other aid up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Continuing students submit LUROP application with faculty mentor information and research proposal by Mar 1.
Selection criteria: Quality and feasibility of research proposal, faculty mentor support, and student's academic standing.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
$1,000 student stipend plus up to $1,000 in project funding for undergraduate research. One-year awards; students may reapply in subsequent years.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Continuing students with a strong research proposal and faculty mentor support; open to all majors.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Music Ensemble Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$300–$1,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Loyola merit and need-based aid up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Audition required for music ensemble participation; awards determined by music department based on talent and ensemble need.
Selection criteria: Musical talent, ensemble needs, and commitment to participation.
💡
Strategic Detail
Small awards for students participating in university music ensembles. Open to non-music majors. Requires audition and continued ensemble participation.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who audition successfully and participate in Loyola music ensembles; open to all majors.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
ROTC Scholarships + Loyola Housing Grant
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
ROTC scholarship covers full tuition, fees, books, and monthly stipend. Loyola adds a $3,500/semester housing grant on top of ROTC benefits. ROTC tuition benefit replaces Loyola merit scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for Army, Air Force, or Navy ROTC scholarship through the respective military branch by national deadlines. File FAFSA by Mar 1 to be considered for Loyola housing grant supplement.
Selection criteria: National ROTC boards evaluate academic achievement (GPA 3.0+), leadership, physical fitness, and commitment to military service.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Federal ROTC scholarships cover tuition, fees, $1,200/yr books, and $420/month stipend. Loyola provides an additional $3,500/semester housing grant for ROTC recipients. Requires ROTC contract and service commitment.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: ROTC scholarship recipients with strong academic records (3.0+ GPA), leadership experience, and physical fitness; service commitment required.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
SIM Chicago Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies
✓ Renews (2 yrs)
🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with Loyola merit and federal/state aid subject to standard cost-of-attendance limits. Award covers up to two years.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through Loyola Scholarship Connection at luc.academicworks.com. Must be entering sophomore year or above and have declared a major in a computer science-related field.
Selection criteria: Need-based with emphasis on CS-related major and interest in IT leadership; reviewed via Loyola Scholarship Connection.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A tech-industry partnership scholarship funded by SIM Chicago, a professional organization connecting technology and business leaders. Awards up to $2,500 per year for up to two years. Open to Sophomores and above who have declared a CS-related major and demonstrate financial need. A great hidden gem for tech students looking to connect with Chicago's IT leadership community beyond the classroom. Apply through Loyola Scholarship Connection.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Upperclassmen in computer science or a related tech field who can make a compelling case for their interest in IT leadership — and who demonstrate financial need.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Zolp Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 1 (admission deadline for scholarship eligibility)
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Endowed tuition scholarship; stacks with Loyola merit and federal/state aid subject to standard tuition caps. Award amount varies by fund availability and number of eligible recipients in a given year.
📄
How to Apply
Be admitted to Loyola by Feb 1. Apply through Loyola Scholarship Connection at luc.academicworks.com after January 1. Submit a copy of your birth certificate and a baptismal or confirmation certificate confirming both the last name Zolp and Catholic faith. Application deadline is March 1.
Selection criteria: Identity-verified endowed scholarship; award distributed among eligible Zolp recipients based on fund availability.
💡
Strategic Detail
The Wm. Zolp Scholarship is an endowed fund reserved for Catholic undergraduate students whose last name is Zolp. If that's your student, this is free money on the table — apply. Amounts vary depending on endowment fund availability and the number of eligible Zolp recipients in a given year. Requires documentation of both the Zolp surname and Catholic faith (birth certificate + baptismal or confirmation certificate). Apply via Loyola Scholarship Connection after January 1; deadline is March 1.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Any Catholic Loyola student whose legal last name is Zolp — one of the most delightfully specific scholarships in higher education. Award amounts fluctuate each year based on endowment returns and how many Zolp students are enrolled.
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Deloitte Accounting Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Tuition reimbursement award payable over three semesters; stacks with other Loyola merit and need-based aid subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Access the application through the ABL Area scholarship form at luc.edu/quinlan/accounting/abl_scholarships.shtml. Select the Deloitte Accounting Scholarship on the form and provide all required documentation. Contact Department Chair KC Rakow, Ph.D., CPA at (312) 915-6327 or krakow@luc.edu with questions.
Selection criteria: Need-based with preference for ESL and first-generation students; reviewed via ABL scholarship application process.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A career-pathway award from Deloitte for Quinlan School of Business accounting students. Offers up to $7,500 in tuition reimbursement spread across three semesters. Open to Sophomores and Juniors with a 3.0+ GPA who demonstrate financial need and interest in public accounting. ESL students and first-generation college students receive application preference. Apply via the ABL Area scholarship form; contact KC Rakow at krakow@luc.edu.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Sophomore and Junior accounting majors in the Quinlan School of Business who maintain a 3.0+ GPA, demonstrate financial need, and have a clear interest in public accounting — with preference given to students for whom English is a second language and/or who are first-generation college students.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Immaculata High School of Chicago Alumnae Association Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Must be accepted to Loyola by May 1; apply via Loyola Scholarship Connection.
✓ Renews (2 GPA, 4 yrs)
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Need-based award that stacks with Loyola merit and federal/state aid subject to cost-of-attendance limits.
📄
How to Apply
Be accepted to Loyola by May 1. Complete the general scholarship application through Loyola Scholarship Connection (luc.academicworks.com) and answer the supplemental questions specifically for the Immaculata Scholarship.
Selection criteria: Need-based award reviewed through Loyola Scholarship Connection supplemental application.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
A true hidden gem for anyone with a family connection to Immaculata High School of Chicago. Eligible family members include children, stepchildren, adopted children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren of alumnae, and descendants of alumnae spouses. Award amounts vary and are based on financial need. Apply through Loyola Scholarship Connection at luc.academicworks.com after being accepted to Loyola by May 1.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Alumnae of Immaculata High School of Chicago, or their children, stepchildren, adopted children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and descendants of spouses of alumnae — who demonstrate financial need and apply through Loyola Scholarship Connection.
App Requiredpipelineneed_basedidentity_based
Leadership Scholars Program (LSP)
📅 Deadline: Feb 1 (admission)
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students can receive other Loyola merit scholarships in addition to the Gannon Scholarshi
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission by Feb 1; submit LSP program application by Mar 1. Program selection includes review of academic record, leadership, and service potential.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing first-generation or low-income status, leadership potential, and service commitment.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Competitive leadership‑focused scholarships (e.g., Gannon Scholars) typically award about $8,000 per year as a tuition discount
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-generation and/or limited-income students who demonstrate leadership and service potential.
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
Loyola Grant
📅 Deadline: Mar 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with merit scholarships and state/federal grants up to the cost of attendance.
💡
Strategic Detail
Institutional need-based grant; amount varies by family financial situation and remaining need. Requires annual FAFSA submission.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Families with remaining financial need after federal/state grants and Loyola merit aid.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
*Amounts and GPA figures are from the latest official program pages and aid office resources. Some (like MAP, Pell, or LUROP) are subject to annual budget changes—double-check after October 1 each year.
- Music Ensemble Scholarships ($300–$1,000/yr) — audition required; open to all majors
- Quinlan School of Business named/donor scholarships — amounts vary, usually GPA/need criteria
- Department and travel study scholarships — see LUROP and department sites
Can I use these with merit scholarships? Usually yes—state/federal aid and LUROP awards stack with Loyola merit, up to the official cost of attendance. ROTC tuition awards are replaced, but Loyola’s housing grant is added on.
Do I need extra applications? Yes: FAFSA for MAP/Pell/Loyola Grant, ROTC via military, LUROP and Catholic Heritage via Loyola.
Sources:
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/scholarships/
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/grants/
https://www.luc.edu/lurop/
https://www.isac.org/students/during-college/types-of-financial-aid/grants/monetary-award-program/
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/rotc/
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/newundergrads/
https://www.luc.edu/finaid/catholic-heritage-award/
🎖️ Honors College
Loyola’s Honors Program gives motivated students the chance to take small, discussion-based classes and work closely with faculty, while still finishing their degree on time. It’s a self-apply program, not automatic, and spots are limited—so applying early and putting effort into your essays matters.
What a Typical Loyola Honors Student Looks Like:
Weighted GPA around 3.8+ (unweighted 3.6+), strong AP/IB/honors coursework, and involvement in leadership or service. Test scores (if submitted) often fall in ACT 29+/SAT 1350+ range. (Estimates based on Loyola’s admitted student profile—exact cutoffs not published.)
Perks That Matter:
- Priority class registration
- Small seminar-style courses with faculty mentors
- Thesis or capstone project with close faculty guidance
- Honors housing options and dedicated community events
- Enhanced preparation for grad school or professional programs
| Award |
Who It’s For |
Criteria |
| Graduating Senior Award |
Honors seniors |
Outstanding academic success throughout the program |
| Honors Program Social Justice Award |
Honors students of any year |
Significant promotion of equality and social justice |
| Student Leadership Award |
Honors students of any year |
Exemplary leadership and engagement within the Honors community |
This institution does not offer designated Honors College scholarships at this time.
Is admission automatic?
No—you must apply separately with essays and short answers through the Honors Program portal.
Does it add time to your degree?
No. The Honors curriculum is designed to integrate with your regular degree plan, not extend it.
Are there scholarships tied directly to Honors?
The Honors Program does not offer extra money to incoming freshmen. Current Honors students can earn awards like the Senior Award, Social Justice Award, and Leadership Award for their contributions and achievements.
When should I apply?
As early as possible—ideally by December 1—to maximize your chances of being considered. Application deadlines for Interdisciplinary Honors are usually March 15.
Sources:
https://www.luc.edu/honors/
https://www.luc.edu/honors/programdescription/
https://www.luc.edu/honors/awards/
https://www.luc.edu/undergrad/financialaid/merit/
https://www.luc.edu/undergrad/financialaid/deadlines/
⭐ College Specialty
Loyola University Chicago isn’t just about its location in the heart of the city—it’s also nationally recognized for its leadership in health, business, and sustainability. For families weighing return on investment, Loyola stands out as a private Jesuit institution with deep ties to Chicago’s professional networks and a reputation for preparing graduates in high-demand fields.
Best Known Program: Loyola’s Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing is consistently ranked among the top nursing programs in Illinois and nationally, with strong NCLEX pass rates and clinical placement options across major Chicago hospitals.
- Environmental Sustainability (School of Environmental Sustainability): First stand-alone school of its kind in the U.S., featuring field study at the Loyola Retreat & Ecology Campus.
- Quinlan School of Business: Chicago-based AACSB-accredited business school offering nationally recognized accounting and finance programs.
- Law (Loyola University Chicago School of Law): Ranked in the top 30 nationally for health law and trial advocacy (U.S. News 2024).
- Medicine & Health Professions: The Stritch School of Medicine and graduate health programs feed into Chicago’s extensive hospital systems, creating pipelines for pre-med and allied health students.
Final Thoughts
Choosing Loyola University Chicago means weighing the costs of a private Jesuit education against the scholarships and aid that can bring it within reach. Between automatic merit, competitive full-tuition awards, state and federal aid, and hidden gems like ROTC and research stipends, most families will find that the sticker price isn’t the final number. If your student is drawn to Chicago’s opportunities in health, business, or sustainability—and is ready to apply early and stay organized—Loyola can be a powerful investment in their future.
Was this helpful? Share it with another parent who’s comparing college costs!
Back to top ↑
