Below are various scholarship opportunities for youth.
The college scholarship program is only for current residents of the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) currently listed on a CHA lease. The applicant must plan to enroll in an accredited post-secondary institution in the fall. Accordingly, applicants can include current high school seniors, undergraduate students continuing their studies, or adults seeking to start a post-secondary program in the fall. Applications typically open at the start of the calendar year and need to be submitted early May. Check the website for specifics and information on how to apply.
CHA public housing residents and Housing Choice Voucher participants can obtain a degree or certificate from City Colleges of Chicago at low or no cost through a partnership between CHA and CCC called the Partners in Education program. Partners in Education Program Managers help residents with the enrollment process, academic advisement and referrals for career coaching when appropriate. Eligible expenses include tuition, uniforms, books, and exam fees. Visit their website for more information!
To inspire future creators in the video game industry and encourage diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM), the ESA Foundation established a scholarship fund providing support for women and minority students across the United States. They offer three different scholarship opportunities:
The ESA Foundation Computer and Video Game Arts Scholarship, for students pursuing careers as video game creators
The ESA Foundation LGBTQ+ support scholarship, for students pursuing video game arts degrees while actively supporting their LGBTQ+ communities
The ESA Foundation esports scholarship, for students who play esports on a collegiate team and are pursuing a four-year, academic degree
Visit their website for more information and how to apply.
College Scholarships for LGBTQ Students
Affordable Colleges has created a resource guide for LGBTQ+ youth that includes:
Finding Supportive Colleges & On-Campus Communities
LGBTQ+ Scholarship Opportunities
How to apply for an LGBTQ+ scholarship when you’re not out