Hope Chicago Program at NIU
Hope Chicago is an innovative two-generation college scholarship program committed to investing $1 billion over the next decade in postsecondary scholarships to Chicago Public School (CPS) students and their parents. In early June 2022, NIU announced a formal partnership with the Hope Chicago non-profit organization.
The partnership supports inaugural Hope Scholar cohort participants from five partner CPS high schools: Benito Juárez Community Academy; Farragut Career Academy; Noble - Johnson College Prep; Al Raby School for Community and Environment; and Morgan Park High School.
Hope Scholars coming to NIU from these schools will be eligible for the full suite of comprehensive supports offered by the non-profit organization.
Hope Scholars will receive a “gap-closing scholarship,” which means Hope Chicago will pay for any costs not covered already by other grants or scholarships. This includes tuition, room and board, books, fees and surcharges. Hope Scholars will also receive a laptop, a stipend and access to emergency funds for unexpected expenses that could be obstacles to their success, as well as transition support, academic and social/emotional supports, and exclusive access to dedicated support staff.
Enrolled scholars will receive support for up to four years, with any additional support dependent on circumstances.
Eligibility Requirements
The scholarship program is currently supporting graduating seniors from Hope Chicago’s five partner schools.
The program is open to graduating seniors from partner high schools regardless of GPA. There is no application, no test scores, no GPA requirements to become a Hope Scholar. Hope Scholars and Hope Parent Scholars must meet Hope Chicago requirements and the admittance requirements for their desired post-secondary path.
More Information
For more information, visit Hope Chicago and its list of Frequently Asked Questions.
We know a college degree is the most powerful tool one can use to maximize their career opportunities. That’s why we aim to change the game and redefine the college experience for our scholars in collaboration with our partner institutions.
Hope Chicago’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Janice Jackson
This partnership between NIU and Hope Chicago is a big deal. It will build on our past efforts, help provide a top-notch NIU education to more CPS students, and help them focus on their studies by removing financial burdens for the entirety of their college careers.
Sol Jensen, NIU vice president for Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communications
Contact Us
Financial Aid and Scholarship OfficeSwen Parson Hall 245
815-753-1395
finaid@niu.edu
For scholarship-specific questions
scholarships@niu.edu