Diversity Scholarship

Undergraduate: 

• Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) at the Illinois Institute of Technology 
• Bachelor of Science in Architecture at the University of Illinois Chicago
• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio – Architecture Pathway (BFA) at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
• Entering your third (3rd) or fourth (4th) year of a BArch program at the Illinois Institute of Technology or your third (3rd) year BS of Architecture at University of Illinois Chicago or the Architecture Pathway BFA program of the School of the Art Institute Chicago
• Two years remaining in school 

Graduate: 

• Master of Architecture (MArch) programs at the Illinois Institute of Technology, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and the University of Illinois Chicago. 
• Two years remaining in school

• Portfolio.
• One page resume.
• Up to a 750-word statement that addresses how you will bring a diverse or unique voice to the profession, and in particular, Chicago.
• 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).

• Three (3) project images accompanied by brief descriptions.  If a group project, identify your contribution.
• Transcript of GPA (3.0 or higher).
• Up to a 750-word statement that addresses how you will bring a diverse or unique voice to the profession, and in particular, Chicago.
• Two (2) letters of recommendation; one (1) must be from a professor or an employer related to the field.
• Financial information (FAFSA, if eligible, W2, tax return, or other financial proof if not from the US).

All proposals will be evaluated by a five-member jury. The jury includes three (3) members of the AIA Chicago Foundation Board of Trustees and two (2) practicing architecture professionals who are not members of the Board. 

The Jury evaluates candidates based on: 

• Strength of the applicant’s personal statement and their impact on Chicago 
• Demonstration of creative potential, as reflected in the portfolio and submitted images 
• Quality of reference letters, including the depth of insight into the applicant’s work and potential as an architect 
• Strength of the applicant’s resume (Graduate only)
• Transcription (Undergraduate only)

All proposals will be evaluated by a five-member jury. The jury includes three (3) members of the AIA Chicago Foundation Board of Trustees and two (2) practicing architecture professionals who are not members of the Board. 

The Jury evaluates candidates based on: 

• Strength of the applicant’s personal statement and their impact on Chicago 
• Strength of the applicant’s resume 
• Demonstration of creative potential, as reflected in the portfolio and submitted images 
• Quality of reference letters, including the depth of insight into the applicant’s work and potential as an architect 

How do I upload my application?
Applications must be submitted through the Reviewr portal.

Do I need to create an account?
Yes, you must create a Reviewr account to access and submit your application.

What schools and programs in Chicago are eligible? 

Undergraduate: 

• Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) at the Illinois Institute of Technology 
• Bachelor of Science in Architecture at the University of Illinois Chicago 
• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio – Architecture Pathway (BFA) at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Graduate: 

• Master of Architecture (MArch) programs at the Illinois Institute of Technology, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and the University of Illinois Chicago. 

When am I eligible to apply for the undergraduate scholarship?

Entering your third (3rd) or fourth (4th) year of a BArch program at the Illinois Institute of Technology or your third (3rd) year of a BS in Architecture at University of Illinois Chicago or the Architecture Pathway BFA program of the School of the Art Institute Chicago

When am I eligible to apply for the graduate scholarship?
You must be entering the first (1st) year of a two-year MArch program or the first (1st) or second (2nd) year of a three-year MArch program.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
No, U.S. citizenship is not required.

Can I apply during my final year of school?
No. Applicants must have at least two years remaining in their program, as the scholarship is distributed over two years.

How much is the scholarship award?
The total award is $10,000.

How are the funds distributed?
Recipients receive $5,000 per year for two years. Funds are paid directly to the school and applied to the student’s account for the fall semesters.

Are letters of recommendation required?
Yes, at least two letters of recommendation are required. Please allow your references sufficient time to prepare strong letters.

How are letters of recommendation submitted?
Letters are submitted confidentially through the Reviewr portal. Applicants should follow up with their references to confirm submission.

How should letters of recommendation be addressed?
Letters should be addressed to: Jury Chair for the Diversity Scholarship.

Is financial information required?
Yes, this is a need-based scholarship, and financial information is required.

What financial documents are required for the application?
Financial information provided through the FAFSA will address the financial questions in the application.

If I am not a U.S. citizen and am not eligible for FAFSA, what financial documents can I submit?
You may submit alternative documentation demonstrating financial need, such as bank statements, a declaration and certification of finances form, or letters confirming organizational or individual sponsorship.

• Recipient is recognized on AIA Chicago's communication channels
• Recipient is recognized in Chicago Architect magazine with an article
• Recipient is acknowledged at Designight
• Recipient is acknowledged at Award Ceremony