Competitive applicants must be of 50% or more of Italian ancestry, pursuing a degree in journalism or communications, have demonstrated academic achievement, and a resident of Illinois. Scholarship recipients are selected based on their Italian heritage, academic achievement, involvement in school and non-school activities, and the quality of their JCCIA John Fischetti Scholarship application. Applicants must submit proof of being admitted to and/or enrolled at an accredited institution of higher education.