Chicago Scholars

Chicago Scholars offers an innovative seven-year program lasting from The summer before their senior year of high school through The senior year of college and ending with two years of leadership development. In their first year of programming, Scholars work closely with college counselors, mentors and peers to apply to colleges and universities that are their right match, fit and financial fit. Our holistic approach strives for our Scholars to find The colleges and universities where they can build community and foster belonging. Chicago Scholars provides Scholars enrolled in college unique scholarship opportunities, continued mentorship and a community of people who care, so that our Scholars persist through college, thrive in their studies and graduate with degrees that lead to meaningful careers, higher salaries and economic mobility. Chicago Scholars' career programming helps our Scholars gain access to The key internships, opportunities, and networks that will lead them to their first jobs and launch life-changing careers. Each year Chicago Scholars works to improve its programs, services and partnerships. To date, more than 5,000 Chicago Scholars are in or have completed The program. 93% of our Scholars and alums are people of color; 90% are low-income and 82% are first generation college students representing all 77 Chicago community areas. Historically 95% of Scholars matriculate to college in The fall following their high school graduation on-time and 78% earn their degrees within six years. Overall The Scholars attended or graduated from more than 550 colleges and universities worldwide. Chicago Scholars partners with more than 130 colleges and universities to ensure our Scholars can find The college that is The right match, fit, and financial fit for them.