Undergraduate Financial Aid

SAIC Scholarships & Grants for Undergraduate Students

Scholarships & Grants Overview

At the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, we offer a variety of scholarships and grants to help you reach your goals. Whether you’re being recognized for your portfolio or looking for aid based on your financial need, this guide explains all the undergraduate options available to you.

In the 2024–25 academic year, we awarded more than $56 million in assistance from our own funds. 

Note: The combination of all scholarships or grants may not exceed tuition charges.

An Asian person wearing an "artist" badge smiling and standing behind a display of various artworks.

Photo by Alan Jay Epstein

SAIC Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their financial circumstances. These scholarships aim to make education more accessible to those who demonstrate financial need.
 

    1. Complete the FAFSA: Submit your FAFSA as early as possible to ensure your financial need is assessed. 
    2. Submit Additional Documents: You may be required to provide supplementary financial information or documents. 
    3. Review Notifications: Once your application is processed, check your SAIC email for scholarship offers. 

  • In order to be eligible for need-based aid, please file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov (even if you’re unsure if you’ll qualify). Remember to file your FAFSA as soon as possible as some types of assistance are limited. An official award letter and an email outlining your financial aid offer will be sent to you once your file has been reviewed and your eligibility has been determined.

    October 1 — New FAFSA opens for next award year. File your FAFSA as soon as possible so your financial aid is reflected in your award letter.

    January 1 — SAIC priority deadline for completing the FAFSA for undergraduate Illinois residents.

    January 15 — SAIC begins sending award letters for eligible new students who have completed a FAFSA.

    February 1 — SAIC priority deadline for completing the FAFSA for all other students. 

    April 15 — SAIC begins sending award letters for eligible continuing students who have completed a FAFSA. 

    Pro-Tips:

    • Click here for tutorials and helpful information on filling out the FAFSA.
    • Please include our school code, #001753, on the FAFSA so that your information is sent directly to SAIC. 

SAIC Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships recognize students for their exceptional academic achievements, artistic talents, or other accomplishments. They are prorated based on enrolled credit hours. Below are the key awards available:
 

    • What It Is: Awarded to students demonstrating exceptional thoughtfulness, skill, and academic capability.
    • Amount: Varies
    • How to Apply: No additional application required; awarded based on a holistic review of your portfolio and application materials upon admission.
    • Learn More: For more information, call the Office of Admissions at 800.232.7242 or email admiss@saic.edu.

    • What It Is: Offered to admitted PTK members, enhancing any other merit scholarships received.
    • Amount: $2,000 per academic year.
    • How to Apply: No additional application required; candidates are automatically considered through the admission process.

    • What It Is: Available for children of employees at colleges within the Tuition Exchange consortium.
    • Amount: Determined yearly by the Tuition Exchange consortium; for 2027–28, it is $44,000.
    • How to Apply: Submit a complete application through the regular SAIC admissions process by February 1, while requesting a Tuition Exchange Scholarship at your parent’s workplace.
    • Learn More: For more details on eligibility and application, visit tuitionexchange.org.

  • Students may also be considered for the following awards based on artistic merit and academic achievement:

    • Presidential
    • Trustee
    • Distinguished
    • Premiere
    • Honors
    • Esteemed
    • Recognition
    • Influential
    • Incentive
    • Enrichment

For further information about the scholarship review process for new students, please contact the Office of Admissions at 800.232.7242 or by email at admiss@saic.edu.

Admitted Student Campus Visit Grant

 

Exterior shot of the entrance to the SAIC MacLean Center.

 

  • What It Is: Awarded to full-time, first-year and transfer students who tour the campus or attend a qualifying admissions event. This is only available for students who are admitted to SAIC.
  • Amount: $4,000 total ($1,000 per year for up to four years).
  • Learn More: Admitted Student Campus Visit Grant

Need Assistance? We’re Here to Help

If you have any questions or want personalized guidance, please contact Student Financial Services.

  • Phone: 312.629.6600
  • Email: saic.sfs@saic.edu
  • Make a Virtual or Phone Appointment: Prospective students, parents, and alumni can schedule via Acuity and current students can schedule via Navigate.