Iskali
Scholarship
Program
Iskali
Scholarship
Program
Opening doors to higher education.
The Iskali Scholarship Fund exists to change the odds for first-
generation Latino college students.
Over the past three years, Iskali has awarded 102 scholarships to
support young Latinos pursuing higher education and building a future
of leadership and service.
For many students, financial barriers can make it difficult to begin or
complete college. The Iskali Scholarship helps reduce those obstacles
while encouraging students to continue their academic journey and
give back to their communities.
Scholarship Impact
Supporting the educational journey of first-generation Latino students.
Scholarship Impact
Why This Scholarship Matters
Despite the aspirations of many young Latinos, financial and structural barriers
still limit access to higher education.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Despite the aspirations of many young Latinos, financial and structural barriers
still limit access to higher education.
11%
of low-income college students graduate.
22%
of Latinos obtain an associate’s degree or higher.
17%
of Latinos obtain a bachelor’s degree.
Financial constraints often influence whether students enroll in college or persist
through graduation. The Iskali Scholarship Fund seeks to change that reality by
supporting students who are determined to continue their education and
create opportunities for the next generation.
Voices from Our Scholars
Voices from Our Scholars
Maria del Leon Sanchez
“This scholarship provided financial support I otherwise would not have received. But what Iskali has given me goes beyond financial help — it has strengthened my spiritual, emotional, and mental foundation as I pursue my goals.”
Javier Retana
“This scholarship provides support for my academic journey. Organizations like Iskali are driving Latino progress and investing in future doctors, lawyers, engineers, and leaders across every profession.”
Adriana Vargas
“This scholarship helps relieve some of the financial stress of college and allows me to focus on my studies and my goals.”
Miguel Perez
“This scholarship helps me continue my education so I can better serve my community and pave the way for other Latino students. Sí se puede.”
Scholarship Details
Scholarship Details
Award
Recipients receive:
- $1,000 in tuition assistance
- up to $250 in emergency financial support
Eligibility Requirements
- Be enrolled in a community college or university or trade school
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- Maintain a B average or higher
- Demonstrate financial need
- Show commitment to continuing education
- Be a first-generation college student
Additional eligibility:
- DACA-friendly
- Post-graduate and professional school students may apply
- Trade school friendly
Important Dates
Application deadline: June 10, 2026
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Applicants notified: June 30, 2026
20–30 scholarships will be awarded in 2026.
Scholarship Reception
Recipients and their families are invited to attend the annual scholarship reception:
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July 8, 2026
6:00–8:00 PM
ST. Ignatious College Prep: 1076 Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60608
Application Process
Application Process
Step 1
Complete the online application.
Step 2
Submit the following documents:
- Academic transcript
- Two-page essay
Essay Prompt
Explain how your education will positively impact your community.
Address the following questions:
- Why do you want to go to college?
- What do you hope to achieve through your career?
- What challenges are you currently facing?
- How do you plan to give back to your community?
Recipient Commitments
Recipient Commitments
Scholarship recipients are expected to:
- Maintain a C+ average or higher
- Complete 10 hours of community service
per academic year - Meet with an Iskali mentor within three months
- Volunteer at the Iskali Gala (Nov 13, 2026)
Apply for the Scholarship
Apply for the Scholarship
Applications open on April 15, 2025, and close on June 15, 2026.
Scholarship reception is July 8th, 2026 at 6 PM
at St. Ignatius College Prep, 1076 Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60608.
Before applying, please prepare:
Your transcript
Your two-page essay in PDF format
Support the Iskali
Scholarship Fund
Every year, generous donors make it possible for first-generation Latino
students to continue their education.
Your support helps expand access to scholarships and empower the next
generation of Latino leaders..