Let’s Go.

Chicago Scholars is creating a community that will shape Chicago’s future. Our work goes way beyond college admission — we’re building a new path forward.

The Chicago Scholars

Experience

Prepare For College

Find your path

Learn about the college admissions process and get help every step of the way. Through mentoring, college counseling, and workshops help you find the college that’s the right match, fit and financial fit for you.

Support for College Students

Explore

Don’t go through college alone! College Scholars get access to ongoing workshops and staff support, continued community with their cohort, exclusive scholarships and career development resources including the Emerge Summer Career and Leadership Program.

Graduation and Beyond

Onward

Graduation isn’t the finish line! Chicago Scholars’ programming continues until you get your first job or grad school acceptance. We’ll make sure you have the tools you need — including job boards, professional connections, and networking — to start your career on the right foot.

Chicago Scholars

in Action

Our Scholars and Alumni are our strongest advocates. Learn more about our programming from the people who know it best.

Impact

6 in 10

Chicago Scholars Alumni earn more than their household income when they were in high school

84%

Of Chicago Scholars graduate with $40,000 or less in student loan debt, compared to 55% of Black students and 81% of Latinx students

74%

Of Chicago Scholars Alumni completed at least one internship before they graduated

5,000+

Chicago Scholars Alumni since the first class of Scholars in 1996

80%

Of Chicago Scholars Alumni return to Illinois after they finish college.

550

Scholars admitted to the Class of 2028, representing more than 60 neighborhoods

Learn more about Chicago Scholars’ impact on our city and country

Get Involved

Invest in our Work

We can’t build a brighter future for Chicago without the financial investment of our community. Join the thousands of Chicagoans who said yes to tomorrow’s leaders!

Invest Now

Become a Mentor

Mentors provide guidance during Scholars’ first two years in the program — and often become lifelong friends. Learn more about the application process here.

Learn More

Volunteer

Chicago Scholars holds several huge events every year, but we couldn’t pull them off without our volunteers. Learn how you can help out on these life-changing days here.

Learn More