In the first year of study, students receive a Student Management Leadership Grant to support their studies. At this time, recipients have the option to accept a second financial award, part of which is associated with a paid associate position integral to the Illinois MBA's operations. At their option, recipients can choose to waive the second-year award and not participate in the operations of the program. The packages are awarded to both U.S. citizens and international students based on merit rather than financial need. Recipients are selected based on prior work experience, undergraduate grade point average, GMAT scores, and demonstrated leadership abilities.
Consideration also is given to individuals of historically underrepresented groups.
Decisions on the leadership award packages are made throughout the admissions process. Successful candidates will be notified by letter as to the amount of their award package. Additionally, they will be asked to sign a contract officially accepting the award package.