Scholarships in the School of Music

The School of Music awards over $250,000 per year in scholarships. This is separate from merit scholarships for incoming students, and School of Music students are strongly encouraged to apply. We offer two different kinds of scholarships:

  • Tuition dollar awards: can be applied to tuition expenses only
  • Donor-funded Foundation awards: can be applied to any educational expense

Scholarships are awarded based on a variety of factors, including academic achievement and financial need. Scholarships do not need to be repaid and are renewed annually, provided you continue to meet the scholarship eligibility criteria.

Scholarships can help offset some of the expenses that come with being a music student, such as:

  • Textbooks
  • Housing
  • Personal instrument repair and maintenance
  • Music notation software
  • Instrument locker rental
  • Accompanist and recording fees
  • Professional performance attire

Deadlines

Log in to MyScholarships to submit your application before the deadline:

  • Fall semester: March 15
  • Spring semester: October 15

You’ll need to update and resubmit your application every year you want to be considered for scholarships.

Apply

  • 1

    Log in to MyScholarships

    Log in to MyScholarships online using your NIU Z-ID and password. You must be admitted to NIU or currently enrolled to access the system.
  • 2

    Complete the General Application

    Once you save and submit your general application, you will automatically be matched to potential scholarship opportunities. The general application consists of two required questions and three additional questions that are optional, though encouraged:

    • A personal statement (required)
    • A brief statement regarding financial need (encouraged)
    • List of activities/service/employment (encouraged)
    • List of honors/awards (encouraged)
    • Two yes/no questions (required)
  • 3

    Complete the School of Music Conditional Application

    For your conditional application to be complete, you will need to have two references (applied teacher and ensemble instructor) submit a recommendation on your behalf in the MyScholarships system.

Testimonials

Contact Us

Mary Lynn Doherty, Ph.D.
Assistant Director, School of Music
Chair, Scholarship Committee
mdoherty@niu.edu

Matt Todd
Coordinator, Scholarship Processing
mtodd5@niu.edu

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