Jumpstart your City Colleges of Chicago journey with Summer Start, new students can earn and learn this summer

Get started early on coursework, meet your peers, earn a stipend through this no cost summer program for new City Colleges students.

CHICAGO- (February 9, 2026) - Beginning June 3 through July 25, new City Colleges of Chicago students will have the opportunity to prepare for a successful college experience by taking a FREE class through Summer Start-and participate in college activities that ensure momentum into and through college in their first year.

There are three different tracks available, so each student can choose what suits them best. Courses range from general education to English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, and courses to prepare for specific types of careers. In addition, students will meet with advisors, get support with reading, writing, and math, and have the opportunity to receive an Earn & Learn stipend.

Other support available include:

• Loaner laptops
• CTA passes and snacks
• Course textbooks
• Optional tutoring to re-take the Read-to-Write and Math placement exams to "level up" before the fall semester begins

To join the Summer Start program, students should:

• Apply to City Colleges for the Summer 2026 semester at https://apply.ccc.edu/
• Complete the Summer Start program application at https://pages.ccc.edu/summer-start/
• Take the City Colleges placement exams
• Complete their FAFSA or RISE Alternative Application
• Check their email, as students will receive information about important next steps

Last day to register is May 21, 2026, and for questions or more information, email [email protected].

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City Colleges of Chicago is the city's most accessible higher education engine of socioeconomic mobility, empowering all Chicagoans to take part in building a stronger Chicago. Learn more about City Colleges of Chicago by visiting https://www.ccc.edu, click here or call 312-COLLEGE.

The City Colleges of Chicago Foundation supports students by funding scholarships, offering emergency support and programs that address basic needs, including food resources so that students can succeed academically and pursue their life goals. Public support of the foundation helps students achieve their academic and career goals.

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