Benefits of Pathways
Engineering Pathways offers many benefits for students interested in beginning their college education at an Illinois community college.
Benefits of the Engineering Pathways Programs:
- Time to explore: Students are admitted to the program before they decide first and
second choice majors, providing an opportunity to explore coursework and career paths - Cohort program: Students complete the same courses together each semester
throughout their community college experience - Make every Credit Count: Specialized, aligned plan of study from your community
college to Illinois ensures all credits transfer toward your selected engineering major. - Personalized support: Access to Grainger College of Engineering advising and
programming, including:- Academic advising via University of Illinois starting first semester of college
- Pathways orientation and events
- Opportunities for major exploration and professional development
- Guaranteed admission to your first choice major in the Grainger College of
Engineering; 18 majors to explore! - Seamless transition: Academic rigor of plan of study at your community college for two
years will be similar to what’s expected at University of Illinois. - Major Cost Savings! On average, Engineering Pathways students save over $32,000
during their first two years of study. - GearUp: Specialized summer program to aid in a smooth transition from your local
community college to the University of Illinois - Pathways-specific scholarships: Students who complete the program and join Illinois
with a transfer GPA of 3.8+ are guaranteed a scholarship.
Pathways Scholarships
Scholarships are available for students who successfully complete the Pathways
program. Some funding is available through the GearUP summer program and
additional funding is available for students’ first year at Illinois after transferring. All
students who successfully complete the Pathways program with a GPA of 3.8 or better
are guaranteed scholarship funding towards their first year at Illinois.
Learn about other scholarship opportunities:
llinois Commitment
Tuition and fees covered if family income is $67,000 or less
and family assets are $50,000 or less.
Illinois Promise
Funds estimated cost of tuition and fees; food and housing; and
books and supplies through grants, scholarships, and 10 – 12 hours of work a
week. FAFSA EFC must equal $0.
Hope Scholarship
Student-initiated fee that provides funds for students who
demonstrate financial need yet do not otherwise qualify for financial aid
Engineering scholarships for continuing students
This one unique application is for consideration for scholarships managed by the Grainger College of Engineering.