The CSBG Scholarship Program helps low-income Chicagoans finance their journeys through higher education. Students enrolled in an Illinois college, university or vocational training program may qualify, and individuals from all ages and backgrounds are welcome to apply. Funds can be used for tuition, fees, books, uniforms, and other necessities. Scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000 for income-eligible residents.
Eligibility
- Must be a City of Chicago resident.
- Must be enrolled as a full-time student in an Illinois Educational Institution for the entire fall semester
- Must have an e-mail address to apply. If you do not have an e-mail address, you will need to create one before applying.
- Must provide an official educational institution transcript to validate your full-time enrollment for the entire 2024 fall semester/quarter.
- Must demonstrate academic achievement, career potential and educational motivation.
- Must meet income eligibility requirements (see table below)
Application Requirements
- Official Transcripts
- Acceptance Letter for Newly Enrolled Students
- Proof of All Family/Household Member's Income for June of the year you are applying
- Current Financial Aid Awards or a Written Statement Why You are Not Eligible for Financial Aid
- Proof of Chicago Residency – Legible Copy of Illinois Driver's License of Illinois State ID
- Copies of Illinois Driver's License of Illinois State ID for All Family/Household Members
- Copies of Social Security Cards for All Family/Household Members
- Minimum 300-Word Personal Essay
- Letter of Recommendation on Letterhead and Signed
Webinars to provide guidance through the application process are on YouTube. Scholarship applications are available during the spring months of each year and awarded for the following fall semester.