Developing future business leaders

Gies Scholar Honors Program

The Gies Scholar Program helps academically motivated and high-potential learners become purpose-driven leaders.

Gies Scholar Program Benefits

As a Gies Scholar, you can:

  • Take special leadership development courses and curriculum
  • Enjoy James Scholar Honors Program benefits, including priority course registration
  • Travel internationally through an exclusive short-term study abroad program
  • Attend a seminar series featuring national and international business leaders
  • Participate in service/philanthropic events for campus and the local community
  • Serve on university and college-level boards and committees
  • Foster community and engagement at social events with other Gies Scholars
  • Build connections with Gies Scholar Program alumni at special events
  • Receive support from dedicated Honors staff 
  • Be recognized at graduation for your participation in the Gies Scholar Program

"Being surrounded by a group of driven and smart individuals from whom I can always learn something has pushed me to grow in ways I would not have otherwise."

Serena Salvato
Gies Scholar

Who can participate

Admission into the Gies Scholar Honors Program is open to:

  • First-year Gies Business students preparing to enter their sophomore year
  • Students transferring into Gies Business from another college at Illinois (aka, intercollegiate transfer students)

 

 See more eligibility requirements ›

How to apply

Choose the option that best applies to you to learn how you can apply for the Gies Scholar program.

 

First-year Gies Business students

The application period for the Gies Scholar Honors Program opens in late fall/early spring each year. When available, the application will be posted on this webpage.

If you are admitted to the program, you will be notified before the end of the spring semester.

Intercollegiate transfer students

When you apply for an intercollegiate transfer (ICT) to Gies Business, you will automatically be considered for admission to the Gies Scholar Honors Program. You do not need to submit an additional application. 

If you are admitted into the program, you'll receive a notification after ICT admission decisions have been released in the summer.