"Merit-Based Scholarships May Be a Barrier to Higher Education in Illinois: A Growing Concern for Prospective Students A new development in Illinois is sparking debate among prospective graduate students, who claim that the state's emphasis on merit-based scholarships is unfairly shutting the door to higher education before they've even been considered on their merit. The policy, which prioritizes students with high GPAs and standardized test scores, has been criticized for creating an uneven playing field that favors those from more affluent backgrounds. Critics argue that this approach not only discriminates against low-income students but also undermines the state's commitment to diversity and inclusion in higher education. As the debate continues, prospective students are left wondering if they'll be able to afford the education they deserve."


Some prospective Illinois graduate students say this shuts the door to education before they've even been considered on their merit.