Illinois Bankers Scholarship

The Illinois Bankers Scholarship Fund promotes excellence in the field of banking while developing a vibrant talent pool of future banking leaders. The Scholarship Fund awards scholarships in the amount of $1,000, designed to support high school graduates or undergraduate college students who are planning to pursue a career in the field of banking.

Several $1,000 scholarships are awarded annually from the Illinois Bankers Scholarship and the Linda J. Koch Scholarship funds. Total awards are capped at 25% of the fund balance. The deadline for receipt of the completed application and submission is MARCH 31.

Application Criteria

  • High school graduates enrolling in college and undergraduate college students seeking a financial industry-related degree
  • Student applicants must be sponsored by an IBA member financial institution and an accompanying bank officer (any level of banking officer referral is acceptable). Banks may sponsor more than one applicant. 
  • Proof of enrollment or admission letter from a college or university; all accredited in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities are eligible 
  • Applications may be received and scholarships awarded in multiple years
  • Illinois residency is not required
  • Applicants are required to disclose their field of study; the Committee has the discretion to determine whether the curriculum falls within a banking industry-related degree
  • No demonstration of financial need is required
  • Applicants must include GPA and transcripts in the applications process
  • Linda J. Koch Scholarship is awarded to applicants who demonstrate exemplary leadership and service characteristics with a minimum 3.0 GPA

Application Process

You will not be able to stop the application process and complete it at a later date. Your application must be completed in one sitting. You must have the following required information ready:

Applicant Profile

  • Name of Sponsor: Illinois Bankers Member Financial Institution and Officer (Any level of banking officer referral is acceptable. Name, Email, Phone, Address)
  • Your Birth Year & Family Member Employed at Financial Institution (if applicable)

Education History

  • ACT / SAT Composite Score
  • Name of High School / College
  • High School / College: GPA / Rank

Work Experience / Activities / Awards

  • Work Experience, Extracurricular Activities, and Awards
  • Brief Statement – (250 words or less) that tells us why you are considering a career in the banking industry. 

Applicant Profile

 

Education History

 

Work / Activities / Awards Experience