CPS Dream Fund Scholarship

Scholarship Overview:
In 2011, CPS Scholarship Manager Marcia Boyd envisioned a talent and need-based, last-dollar scholarship for academically talented undocumented Chicago Public Schools students. The goal of the scholarship is to assist talented Undocumented Students and DREAMers in their quest to pursue a post-secondary education. A significant number of Chicago Public Schools students are undocumented and due to state and federal financial aid policies, these students are ineligible to receive any Federal or state financial aid. Funding for this scholarship is made possible through tax-deductible contributions to the CPS Dream Fund. The scholarship awards will be sent directly to the colleges or universities that the awardees attend in the fall of each academic year.

CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS MUST LOG-IN & APPLY VIA ACADEMIC WORKS ONLY
Need Help logging-in to Academic Works? Check out the Academic Works User Comprehension Guide for assistance with your application.

Do you attend a CPS Charter School? Click Here to Access the Charter Student Application & Instructions

Please Note: The deadline is Friday, June 2nd by 11:59pm.

Scholarship Qualifications:

Chicago Public Schools Senior (class of 2023)
Undocumented Student/Dreamer (Cannot be a U.S. Citizen)
Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA): 2.0 or higher (weighted)
Currently enrolled and attending a Chicago Public High School (including charter schools)
Plan to attend a regionally accredited two or four-year institution (college/university) of higher education in fall of 2023
If eligible for the 2023-2024 Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid, it is highly recommended to complete the Illinois Financial Aid form for Undocumented Illinois students and submit proof of completing the application to Dream Fund Scholarship Committee.
Open to Undocumented/DREAMers: Yes, only CPS Undocumented and DREAMers students are eligible to apply.
An Undocumented/DREAMer is a non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident high school student who qualifies for in-state college tuition under Illinois’ HB-60 State Legislation and who will benefit from the Illinois DREAM Act, a provision that supports children of immigrants in Illinois signed by Illinois Governor Pat Quinn in 2011.

Contact Information: Please email dreamers@cps.edu
NOTE: we will NOT process any applications from students born in the United States.