Diversity Scholarship: Graduate Student Application 2025
0
Days Left
to Enter

Application Deadline: Friday, April 4; 11:59pm

The AIA Chicago Foundation Diversity Scholarship aims to attract and retain diverse, talented young professionals in Chicago by recognizing the value of new and unique voices in the profession.   This scholarship honors individuals who exemplify the qualities of an architectural changemaker—someone who drives progress in the profession by championing design excellence, advancing social justice, pioneering technical innovation, or energizing the field in meaningful ways. 

Throughout the two years, each awardee is paired with a mentor from the AIA Chicago membership to receive ongoing guidance throughout their educational tenure.

Up to two $10,000 scholarships will be awarded each year. Each $10,000 scholarship will be awarded over two years, $5,000 per year, per recipient for students attending the Illinois Institute of Technology, School of the Art Institute, and the University of Illinois Chicago.

 

In the fall of 2025, eligible student applicants must

  • be enrolling at a NAAB accredited architecture master's degree program at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois Institute of Technology, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
  • be going into their 1st year of a 2 or 3-year program, OR the 2nd year of a 3-year program 

What you will need to apply

  • Portfolio
  • One page resume
  • up to 750 word statement that addresses the fulfillment of the diversity requirements
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation: one (1) must be from a professor or an employer from a design related firm
  • Financial information (FAFSA, if eligible, W2, tax return, or other financial proof if not from the US) - if you are having issues with your FAFSA, please email Allison Garwood Freedland at afreedland@aiachicago.org