James Scholar
Grainger College of Engineering

About Us

The James Scholar Honors Program in the Grainger College of Engineering recognizes the talents of academically outstanding students, promotes curricular/co-curricular growth, and helps prepare students to stand out in their future endeavors.

James Scholars may also receive the following benefits:

• Priority registration for classes

• A special "James Scholar" distinction on final transcripts upon graduation

• Programming to address areas such as undergraduate research, international experiences, career development, and co-curricular opportunities

• Eligibility for funding opportunities

Who can be a James Scholar?

Incoming first-year students must be invited through admissions to participate in the first semester. Otherwise, students who have met the following requirements may self-nominate to be a James Scholar:

• Maintain a minimum UIUC GPA of 3.50

• Complete at least one fall or spring semester of full-time UIUC coursework

• Have at least three semesters left before graduation

• Apply within the first 10 days of classes in the fall or spring semester in their James Scholar Portal.

  • We encourage you to apply in Spring 2026 from January 20, 2026, through February 2, 2026, from 8:00 am - 11:59 pm CT. Application review may take three to five business days.

Please see our campus page for COVID-19 Updates.