Boldfutures | National Louis University | Chicago, Illinois

Earn Your Share of Over $2 Million

NLU will be awarding up to fifty full-tuition scholarships valued at over $2 million* to 2027 high school graduates throughout Illinois.

More than one student from the same school with a 3.0 GPA or higher could be selected if they meet the overall requirements.

Recipients may use their scholarship toward any of NLU bachelor's degree programs, except for Culinary Management.

To Apply You Need to:

Complete an application for admission to National Louis University by February 28, 2027.
Submit your FAFSA or IL Alternative application by March 31, 2027.
Send your transcript--it must show proof of a 3.0 GPA.
Send us your choice of a 2-minute video by April 17th, 2027.

Apply Now

Approximately Two Minutes.
Topic: Discuss your academic achievements, future goals, and how the scholarship will support your journey.
Video Pro Tip: Make sure your video is filmed from the waist up and filmed in a well-lit area.

Eligibility Requirements:

High school graduates of the class of 2027.
Available for all NLU Bachelor’s Degree programs, excluding Culinary Management.
Transcript submitted with a 3.0 GPA required.
Eligible students must complete the FAFSA or Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid for 2027-2028 by March 31, 2027.
Complete the application for admission to National Louis University by the February 28, 2027 deadline.
Winners will be announced by April 21, 2027.

Application Process:

Submit a video of yourself addressing the topic. Video submissions should take approximately 2 minutes.
Topic: Discuss your academic achievements, future goals, and how the scholarship will support your journey. Be sure to express your passion and commitment to making a difference in your community and chosen career path. Share how the scholarship will contribute to your academic and professional growth.
- Video Pro Tips:
  - Ensure your video is filmed from the waist up and in a well-lit area.
  - Prepare and practice your script before filming the video. Make sure you speak clearly and confidently and dress like you’re going for your first interview.

The following criteria apply to maintain the scholarship:

The scholarship can be awarded until the student has reached 180 quarter hours of combined transfer and institutional coursework.
The scholarship will cover 15 quarter hours per term.
Maintain a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA to remain eligible.
Students are only eligible for one institutional resource per academic year.
Eligible students must complete the FAFSA or Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid each year.
If selected, students must complete all financial aid verification requirements or any required documents.
Students must adhere to the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy of National Louis University.
Students must adhere to all the University policies noted in the Catalog to remain eligible to receive NLU Scholarships.
NLU will be awarding fifty scholarships that will cover any remaining tuition balance (not including fees) after all other gift aid (grants, scholarships) have been posted.

*After all other grants and scholarships have been applied, and it does not cover fees, housing, or Upass.

All applications for the Bold Futures scholarship are due by April 17th, 2026. Winners will be announced by April 21st, 2026.

With over 135 years of excellence and 70,000 alumni, we provide an extraordinary education that’s within your reach.