Navigating Financial Aid: A Comprehensive Guide to DePaul University Scholarships

Securing funding for higher education is a significant concern for many students, and DePaul University offers a diverse array of scholarship opportunities to alleviate this financial burden. These scholarships, ranging from internal university awards to external national and international grants, are designed to support students across various academic levels and disciplines. This comprehensive guide aims to illuminate the landscape of DePaul University scholarships, providing detailed information for prospective and current students seeking to finance their educational journey.

Understanding Scholarship Awarding at DePaul

At DePaul University, scholarships and assistantships are primarily awarded at the program level. This means that your specific college office and academic department play a crucial role in the distribution of these financial awards. Therefore, it is essential for students to consult directly with their respective college or school for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding available scholarships and their eligibility criteria. DePaul's commitment extends beyond graduation, focusing on the continued professional and personal growth of its alumni. This forward-thinking approach is reflected in some of the unique scholarship offerings available.

Internal DePaul University Scholarships

DePaul University offers a robust selection of internal scholarships, funded and administered directly by the institution. These scholarships are a testament to DePaul's dedication to supporting its student body.

The Double Demon Scholarship

A notable internal award is the Double Demon Scholarship, specifically available to DePaul alumni pursuing graduate studies at the university. This scholarship is a recognition of the continued engagement and academic pursuit of its former students. Alumni from any of DePaul’s colleges who are admitted into a graduate program, including degree, non-degree, or select certificate programs, automatically qualify for this award. Both full-time and part-time graduate students are eligible to benefit from this scholarship. It is important to note that the Double Demon Scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with other DePaul scholarships, waivers, or awards. Furthermore, university employees are not eligible for this scholarship, as they have access to separate tuition benefits.

Graduate Catholic Scholarship

Another significant internal scholarship is the Graduate Catholic Scholarship. This award is available to students affiliated with a Catholic college or university, offering a 10% discount off tuition for graduate and professional programs. This includes degree, non-degree, and select certificate programs. Similar to the Double Demon Scholarship, students automatically qualify for the Graduate Catholic Scholarship upon meeting the affiliation criteria. Both full-time and part-time students are eligible. However, this scholarship also cannot be combined with other DePaul scholarships, waivers, or awards. University employees are also excluded from this scholarship, as they are eligible for different tuition benefits. It is important to be aware that this scholarship does not apply to all certificate programs.

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) Scholarships

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) utilizes the DePaul Scholarship Tool for all its award distributions. LAS-specific scholarships are typically awarded once per academic year. Students are strongly encouraged to log on to the scholarship tool at any time to explore available opportunities. The general application for LAS scholarships can be filled out at any point after July 1st. Once submitted, students will be linked to awards that become open for application. Completing the general application may also direct students to other awards for which they are eligible.

School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS) Scholarships

The School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS) recognizes that each student has unique motivations for pursuing further education. To support these diverse academic aspirations, SCPS has curated several scholarship opportunities. Students within SCPS are encouraged to review the various opportunities available to them to support their academic pursuits.

Undergraduate Summer Research Program and Undergraduate Research Assistant Program

DePaul also offers internal scholarships specifically for students interested in research. For instance, LAS offers the Undergraduate Summer Research Program and the Undergraduate Research Assistant Program, providing valuable opportunities for students to engage in scholarly activities.

External Scholarship Opportunities

In addition to internal awards, DePaul University actively supports students in exploring and applying for external scholarships. These national and featured scholarships are not granted by DePaul but are accessible to DePaul students, covering a wide spectrum of academic fields.

National and Featured Scholarships

National and featured scholarships represent awards from organizations outside of DePaul. These can encompass a broad range of academic areas, including study abroad, public service, international affairs, natural and social sciences, education, and the humanities. DePaul provides resources to assist students in identifying the right programs and preparing their applications.

The "Getting Started" page on DePaul's scholarship resources is a recommended starting point for students interested in external scholarships. This page offers a list of scholarships along with advice tailored for different undergraduate academic years. Some of the most prestigious scholarships are highlighted under "Featured Scholarships," with links and a quick guide available for further information.

While there may be fewer national scholarships available for underclassmen compared to upperclassmen, numerous opportunities still exist. The following are some common external scholarships that DePaul students may find relevant:

Boren Scholars: This program is for students interested in studying less commonly taught languages. It excludes countries in Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Boren Scholars represent a variety of academic backgrounds but share a common interest in linguistic and cultural immersion.
Coro Kansas City Summer Internship in Public Affairs: This internship aims to develop future community leaders through exposure to community issues, skill development, and interaction with civic leaders and organizations.
Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund: This fund provides grants to students who are actively engaged in working for peace and justice.
Fund for Education Abroad (FEA): The FEA offers scholarships for students seeking to study abroad. It is open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled as undergraduates in U.S. universities or colleges who plan to study abroad for at least four weeks.
Gilman International Scholarship: This scholarship provides grants for undergraduate students of limited financial means to pursue academic studies abroad. The program encourages students to explore nontraditional destinations, particularly those outside of Western Europe and Australia.
Goldwater Scholarship: The Goldwater Scholarship awards undergraduate scholarships to sophomores and juniors who demonstrate outstanding potential and intend to pursue careers in mathematics, the natural sciences, or engineering. The scholarship covers eligible expenses such as tuition, books, and room and board.
Harriman Foreign Service Fellowships: The Pamela Harriman Foreign Service Fellowships are offered annually to three outstanding undergraduates nationwide, focusing on careers in international affairs.
Hollings Scholarship (NOAA Ernest F. Hollings): This scholarship from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides successful undergraduate applicants with academic assistance (up to \$8,000 per year) for full-time study during the academic year. It also includes a 10-week paid internship at a NOAA facility during the summer, and potential for reappointment with further academic assistance. The internship offers practical, hands-on experience in NOAA-related science, research, technology, policy, management, and education.
Morgan Stanley Richard B. Fisher Scholarship Program: This competitive undergraduate scholarship program is designed to provide outstanding Black, Hispanic, Native American, and LGBT students with financial awards for a summer internship, based on exceptional academic achievement. Eligible candidates must be currently enrolled as a sophomore or junior at an accredited four-year institution with a competitive grade point average.
Rangel International Affairs Program: The Rangel Program offers various opportunities for both undergraduates and graduates interested in international affairs careers. For undergraduates, it includes a six-week summer enrichment program in Washington D.C. with courses, a writing seminar, and exposure to professionals in global affairs. The program covers tuition, travel, room and board, and provides a stipend, aiming to prepare students for careers in international public service.
State Department Foreign Internship Program: The U.S. Foreign Service offers a new internship program allowing students to intern for two summers, first in D.C. and then at an embassy overseas.

International Scholarships and Fellowships

DePaul University also actively supports international students in their pursuit of education through various scholarships, fellowships, and grants. These opportunities can be offered by the university itself or by external organizations.

University-Based International Scholarships

The financial aid office at DePaul University often manages international scholarships, fellowships, or grants for students outside the country where the university is located. These are essential for enabling global talent to access DePaul's academic programs.

External Organizations Offering International Scholarships

Beyond university-specific aid, numerous external organizations, including foundations, trusts, and corporations, provide scholarships for international students. DePaul endeavors to list the latest information on these opportunities to assist international applicants.

Specific International Scholarship Examples

The provided information highlights several specific international scholarships that may be relevant to students applying to or attending DePaul University:

Education Future International Scholarship - USA & Non-USA 2025: This scholarship is open for all courses offered by universities. The application deadline is March 31, 2026, and the scholarship value ranges from INR 2 lakhs to INR 10 lakhs.
Higher Education Scholarship Test for Indian Students (HEST) 2025: This scholarship is available for all courses except Medicine/MBBS. The application deadline is March 31, 2026, and it offers funding up to 3 lac per student.
Wenner-Gren Foundation Dissertation Fieldwork Grant 2026: This grant is specifically for students pursuing studies in Anthropology. The application deadline is May 1, 2026, and the scholarship value can be up to USD 25,000.
International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) Research Grants 2026: These grants are for research in Basic Science, Human Healthcare, Industrial and Agricultural Biotechnology, and Bioenergy. The application deadline is April 30, 2026, with an annual value of EUR 25,000.
MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship 2026: This scholarship is available for all courses offered by universities. The application deadline is August 31, 2026, and it offers up to USD 8,000.
Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Memorial Scholarships 2026: This scholarship is for students pursuing studies in Automotive fields. The application deadline is April 3, 2026, and the scholarship value is USD 5,000.
Rapid Formations Entrepreneur Scholarship Programme 2026: This program is for students studying Entrepreneurship and Business. The application deadline is August 31, 2026, and the scholarship value is up to USD 700.
American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) Worldstudio Scholarships 2026: These scholarships are for students in Photography, Illustration, and Graphic Design. The application deadline is April 22, 2026, and the scholarship value varies.
Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships 2026: This scholarship is for selected courses offered by universities. The application deadline is March 31, 2026, and it covers tuition, living expenses, travel allowance, and health allowance.
Microsoft Disability Scholarship 2026: This scholarship is for students pursuing studies in Engineering, computer science, computer information systems, law, business, or a related field. The application deadline is March 16, 2026, and the scholarship value is USD 5,000.

These international scholarships can be utilized for various degree levels, including DePaul University's bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs.

Applying for Scholarships at DePaul

DePaul University utilizes a centralized system for many scholarship applications, encouraging students to engage with these opportunities proactively.

Scholarship Connect

For current students, logging in with their DePaul Blue Key is the gateway to reviewing current opportunities recommended to them. A comprehensive list of all available university scholarships and opportunities can be found here. It is crucial to carefully read the description of each scholarship before applying to ensure eligibility and adherence to any unique criteria. Many scholarship opportunities only require the submission of an annual General Application. Therefore, students are advised to submit this General Application as soon as possible during the academic year. Students can revisit Scholarship Connect during specified dates to initiate these applications. It is important to note that application periods for listed scholarships vary throughout the academic year, determined at the discretion of the college office or department.

General Application Strategy

For internal DePaul scholarships, particularly those administered through the DePaul Scholarship Tool, filling out the general application is a key step. This application, which can be submitted after July 1st, serves as a primary screening tool, linking students to awards for which they may be eligible. This approach streamlines the application process and ensures that students are considered for all relevant internal funding opportunities.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a critical document for many forms of financial aid, including some scholarships and grants. Students are required to complete the FAFSA for the current academic year. This application is fundamental for determining eligibility for federal and state aid, as well as for many institutional aid programs.

Support for Undocumented Students

DePaul University is committed to supporting all its students, including those who are undocumented. The university has curated several scholarship and financial opportunities specifically designed to assist undocumented students in their academic pursuits.

DePaul College Prep Financial Assistance

For students attending DePaul College Prep, financial assistance is available through two primary channels: need-based financial aid and academic scholarships.

Need-Based Financial Aid: This aid is awarded based on a family's demonstrated financial need. Students must apply and qualify through a formal assessment process.
Academic Scholarships: These scholarships are available for eligible students who achieve a score of 85 or above on the Catholic High School Entrance Exam when taken at DePaul College Prep.

For returning students at DePaul College Prep, a financial aid application must be completed annually. The online financial aid application opens on October 1, 2025, in FACTS Grant & Aid and closes on February 7, 2026, for current students. It is imperative that applications are filed within this period, as late applications are not eligible for consideration. Students and their parents or guardians must comply with these requirements to be eligible for financial aid. Consideration for financial aid is exclusively given to families who apply during the open application season in FACTS Grant & Aid. Applications filed after December 31, 2025, are not eligible for consideration.

tags: #depaul #university #scholarships #information