Become a Star Scholar and Earn Your College Education Tuition-Free

Chicago Public Schools students–and now, students attending Chicago-based Big Shoulders Fund-supported schools–are able to pursue a degree or certificate at City Colleges at no cost. That’s free tuition and books!

Requirements vary, however, to be academically eligible for the Star Scholarship, students must earn a B average in high school. If you’re a qualifying, graduating high school student, keep up the good work and you, too, could benefit from City Colleges’ Star Scholarship program!

Program Facts

Since the Star Scholarship Launched in Fall 2015:

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Star Scholar completion rates are nearly double the national average
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Star Scholars have received almost $5 million in additional scholarships
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Of Star Scholars projected to graduate this year, more than 80 percent are in the first-generation of their family to attend college

Q & A

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

City Colleges will provide waivers for all eligible tuition and books not covered by financial aid.

Who Is Eligible for this Program?

City Colleges will provide this free college opportunity for Chicago Public High School graduating seniors who meet these academic requirements:
  • Graduate from a CPS high school with a 3.0 or higher GPA
  • Enrolls in one of the City Colleges’ credit academic programs
  • Apply and enroll within one year from high school graduation
This includes undocumented students, international students, and students at CPS charter or option high schools.

How Long Is the Scholarship Good for?

CPS graduates will have up to three years to use the funds, starting in the first fall CCC semester after their CPS graduation. Those students who don’t matriculate to CCC immediately have up to one year to apply (before the start of the second Fall semester at CCC following their CPS high school graduation.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Scholarship applicants and current Star Scholars can learn more by reviewing these frequently asked questions.

Transfer Partnerships

STAR Scholarship recipients have the opportunity to begin working with 4-year universities while still at CCC.

Steps to Apply

  • Graduate from a CPS high school with a 3.0 or higher GPA

  • Apply online to City Colleges

    Applying is easy with our online applicationPlease note you will need a valid email address to complete your application.
  • Complete the FAFSA

    Fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All financial aid verification processes must be complete and financial aid award package must be processed. If you are unable to file a FAFSA, fill out the STAR Scholarship Certification of Ineligibility to File for Financial Aid form on the student portal once you’ve been admitted to CCC.
  • Register for the next semester

Join the 12,500 CPS graduates attending college at no cost.

Already applied to City Colleges?
Complete your application in the Student Portal:  my.ccc.edu

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