Rob Pileckis Theatre and Film Scholarship

NEW! In conjunction with Screen Test Student Fest...

To celebrate the consistently high level of artistry and dedication to film and video production seen at Schaumburg’s Screen Test Student Fest, the Rob Pileckis Theatre and Film Scholarship awards $1,000 to an area high school senior planning to continue their studies in the field of film and video.

Three applicants will be selected as finalists, whose scholarship videos will be shown in a special presentation at Screen Test Local Fest on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Schaumburg’s Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts. The $1,000 scholarship award will be announced live after the videos have been screened. The other finalists will receive a $100 tuition stipend to continue their studies in film and video production

APPLY HERE!

Eligibility

Student is currently a senior in high school (i.e. graduating in the spring of the current school year).
Student lives within 30 miles of Schaumburg, IL (all Chicago residents are eligible).
Student plans to continue their education at a college, university, vocational, or technical school.
Student plans to dedicate all or part of their studies in film or video production.
Student does NOT have to have a film project accepted into the 2026 Screen Test Student Fest to qualify for the scholarship.

Requirements

Student must submit online scholarship application in its entirety no later than February 9, 2026.
Student must also submit a video up to 60 seconds in length highlighting their passion for film and video production. Videos will be judged on their creativity, production values, and impact of statement.
Optional: Video can be accompanied by a one-paragraph personal statement.
Student must provide one statement of support from a teacher or mentor endorsing their commitment to film and video production.
Finalists will be announced by March 24, 2026 and MUST be present at the award presentation at Screen Test Local Fest on Friday, April 10.

The Rob Pileckis Theatre and Film Scholarship is sponsored by the Prairie Center Arts Foundation.
Screen Test Student Fest is a program of the Village of Schaumburg.