Gold Star Scholarship

2027 Gold Star Mission Scholarship Program

Honoring Illinois' Fallen Heroes Through Education

Gold Star Mission (GSM) is accepting applications for its 2027 Scholarship Program, continuing its commitment to preserving the legacies of Illinois' Fallen Military Heroes by supporting students who demonstrate dedication to education, leadership, and service to others.

Since launching its scholarship program in 2017, Gold Star Mission has awarded more than $350,000 in educational scholarships, each given in honor and remembrance of an Illinois Fallen Hero.

Applications are open November 1, 2026, through February 1, 2027. Recipients will be recognized in March 2027.

"Each scholarship we award carries the name and memory of a fallen Illinois service member," said Barry Tobias, President of Gold Star Mission. "It's our way of ensuring their sacrifice continues to inspire selfless service and leadership in others."

Who Can Apply

Scholarships are open to students with an Illinois connection who are pursuing or planning to pursue higher education. Eligible applicants include:

• Graduating high school seniors planning to continue their education
• College and university students, including community college, undergraduate, and graduate students
• Students pursuing vocational, trade, technical, or certificate programs
• Adult and returning learners beginning college, completing a degree, or pursuing new educational and career opportunities

No military affiliation is required. Gold Star Mission welcomes students who demonstrate a commitment to education, leadership, and service to others.

Scholarship Award

Each $1,000 scholarship may be used toward tuition, textbooks, school fees, on-campus room and board, approved educational tutoring, and other qualifying educational expenses.

Honoring Their Sacrifice

Gold Star Mission's scholarship program is about more than financial assistance. It ensures the stories and sacrifices of Illinois' Fallen Heroes continue to inspire future generations.

Through education and service, scholarship recipients carry forward a legacy of courage, compassion, and commitment to others.

"Our scholarship recipients remind us that the values our fallen lived by — commitment, honor, and service to others — are still alive today," Tobias said.

Gold Star Mission encourages high schools, community colleges, universities, vocational programs, veterans organizations, and community partners to share this opportunity with eligible students.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted online only, November 1, 2026, through February 1, 2027.

Visit the Gold Star Mission scholarship application page to review eligibility requirements and apply. Select the "Complete Online" button to begin your application.

About Gold Star Mission

Founded by Illinois National Guard members in 2017, Gold Star Mission honors the sacrifice of more than 300 Illinois military service members killed since September 11, 2001. The organization preserves their memories and supports Gold Star Families through educational scholarships, endurance events such as the Gold Star 500 and General Logan 200, and remembrance initiatives including the Fallen Heroes History Project.

Through these efforts, Gold Star Mission ensures that the sacrifices of Illinois' Fallen Heroes are never forgotten and that their legacies continue to inspire service to others.

Learn more about Gold Star Mission.

Always Remember. Never Forget.