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Scholar Experience

Beacon scholars engage with a comprehensive ecosystem to support belonging, self-efficacy, and values-based engagement at Northwestern.

Financial Support

In their financial aid packages, Beacon Scholars receive University scholarship and grant funding, which does not need to be repaid. Northwestern students who receive financial aid packages, including Beacon Scholars, must reapply for financial aid every year.

Steps to Becoming a Beacon Scholar

Students who are admitted to Northwestern and have completed the financial aid process are automatically considered for Beacon Scholars. Students will be notified of their selection in Beacon Scholars following admission.

  1. Apply to Northwestern

  2. Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile

  3. Northwestern's Enrollment and Student Affairs teams partner to review applicants for the Beacon Scholars Program

  4. Offers for the Beacon Scholars Program are made

  5. Accept the offer

Program Structure

  • Pre-Term & Freshman Year

    The Welcome Kit
    Welcome Kit that includes sheets, towels, and Beacon swag items.

    Winter Essentials
    Winter coat, gloves, boots, and a scarf regardless of home state.

    October Kick-Off
    Join your cohort for the official launch of your Beacon experience.

  • Sophomore & Junior Years

    Extracurriculars Funding
    Access funding for extracurriculars, including fraternity/sorority dues, club sports, and more.

    Paid Summer Opportunity
    Access to a one-time paid summer experience through the SESP 251: Scholar Experience course, offered by the School of Education and Social Policy.

    Leadership Opportunity
    Community building events led by our Scholar Ambassadors – a paid leadership opportunity within Beacon.

  • Senior Year & Beyond

    Financial Wellness Education
    Learn about navigating life and personal finances.

    Mentorship Opportunities
    Support incoming Beacon scholars at the start of their Northwestern journey.

    End-of-Year Celebration
    A final celebration event to honor your achievements and transition into the alumni network.

Upperclassmen in the program helped me understand classes, clubs, and opportunities. Their guidance made Northwestern easier to navigate.”

Ongoing Annual Support

1:1 Monthly Advising
Monthly advising and coaching from a SES Staff Member.

Monthly Community Nights
Dinners and dialogue designed to keep you connected across all cohorts.

Monthly Scholar Cafes
Tailored resources and networking for Beacon scholars.

Quarterly Midterm Fuel Kits
Led by our graduate assistant and scholar ambassadors, quarterly space to unwind from finals, connect with your advisor, and pick up study snacks.

Quarterly Challenges
Earn $100 gift cards through research studies or program bingo.

Annual Printing Credit
An additional $50 added to your account each year.

A Community of Support

To support the whole student, Beacon Scholars provides direct access to a specialized network of partners—from mental health and academic coaching to career development and financial resources—ensuring every scholar has the community and tools needed to thrive at Northwestern and beyond.

Why ‘Beacon’?

The Beacon Scholars program draws its name from the words of student poet Cydney Brown ’26, whose poem captures the essence of being a first-generation student.

  • "....being First to step forward
    being the First to fall, fail, then run
    like a rising sun
    shining on those lost in the moon’s shadow..."

When I was struggling, my advisor helped connect me with emotional support. Knowing someone cared about my well-being helped me keep going.”