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

At the start of our seven-year program, you’ll learn about the college admissions process and get help every step of the way. Through mentoring, college counseling, and workshops, we’ll 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 program from the people who know it best.

Impact

Addressing Systemic Inequity

Our READI Commitment

We approach everything we do, from team meetings to Scholar programming, through a READI — Racial Equity, Accessibility, Diversity and Inclusion — lens. When we take the time to consider how our work and actions impact others, we make it easier for everyone to show up as their best selves.

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Making career readiness accessible

The Emerge Program

With our partner Invest For Kids, Chicago Scholars hosts the Emerge Summer Internship Program to help close crucial the gaps in career resources like mentors, internship timelines, and resume support. Every summer, Emerge Scholars get hands-on training and crash courses in writing for job applications, networking, and other professional skills so they can enter the workforce with confidence.

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Funding for Scholars

Scholarships, Grants and Financial Assistance

Tuition isn’t the only financial barrier to a college degree — textbooks, technology, family emergencies, and living expenses can all derail a student’s plans.

Money should never keep Scholars from dreaming big. We’re proud to offer grants, emergency funding, and exclusive scholarships to Scholars. Through these initiatives, Scholars have replaced broken laptops, studied abroad, taken unpaid internships, and more.

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News & Events

Get Involved

Become a Scholar

Are you interested in being a Chicago Scholar, or do you know a high school junior who would be a good fit? Learn more about our application process here.

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Become a Mentor

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

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