Illinois College Access Network

Dedicated to College Access

Working with college access professionals at institutions and organizations, the Illinois College Access Network strives to improve postsecondary access and success for low income, first generation students.

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Become a Member

Join your professional college access colleagues in exploration of issues related to the special challenges faced by low income, first generation students and their families. See the “membership” tab for a list of current members, along with a description of membership categories/fees and an application.

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News and Notes

Thoughtful blog from Jon Boeckenstedt (DePaul), on the discrete challenges faced by low income students: click here
Full tuition scholarships for qualified CPS graduates enrolling at one of the City Colleges of Chicago.
From the National Student Clearinghouse – new data on HS to college transition, including on first generation, low income and non-white students. More details.
Free and extensive materials on scholarships and financial aid More details.

Important dates to consider…

Save the dates: March 1, 2019 – deadline for applications to the Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois – apply directly. Questions? scholars@goldenaplle.org Friday, March 29, 2019 at the South Shore Cultural Center, Chicago – CPS Dream Fund Scholarship fundraiser. Tickets here Questions? cpsdreamfund@cps.edu. Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at Northern Illinois University – 5th annual “Sharing the … [Read More]
College Changes Everything conference request for proposals

College Changes Everything conference request for proposals Call for Session Proposals CCE 2019: Expanding Success for All Students – Every Community’s Responsibility We hope you’ll join us on Thursday, July 18, 2019 at the ninth annual College Changes Everything® (CCE) Conference – the state’s preeminent annual college access and success and career readiness event. This … [Read More]
February 2019 meeting on Feb. 12

Location: CPS Offices, 42 W Madison 8-8:45: Light breakfast and Networking 8:45-10:30: Program and Announcements Laura Dayton, current President of Illinois TRIO, will present an overview of one the oldest and most effective college access and support initiatives in the country — with 147 programs in Illinois at 88 colleges and universities currently serving 34,000 … [Read More]