Guide to Free Education Funding for Chicagoland
Thinking about going back to school but worried about the cost? If you live in the Chicagoland area, you’re in luck. There are numerous grants, scholarships, and programs that can fully fund your education or job training—no student loans required. Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding and applying for the support that’s already available to you.
Step 1: Complete the FAFSA or Alternative Application
Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This unlocks federal and state funding, including:
Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year)
Illinois MAP Grant for state residents attending eligible colleges (Learn more via ISAC)
Alternative Application if you’re ineligible for FAFSA (Apply here)
Pro tip: Apply early—some funds are first-come, first-served.
Step 2: Explore City Colleges of Chicago Scholarships
If you live in Chicago and are looking at career programs, apply for Future Ready. This scholarship covers:
Tuition
Books
Supplies
Available through all City Colleges of Chicago, these scholarships are designed for high-demand careers like IT, healthcare, logistics, and more.
Step 3: Apply for WIOA Job Training Funds
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) provides funding for adults who are:
Unemployed or underemployed
Changing careers
Returning to the workforce
Visit your local American Job Center or the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership to explore eligible training programs.
Step 4: Get Support from One Million Degrees
If you’re pursuing a certificate or associate degree at a participating college, One Million Degrees offers:
Monthly stipends
Professional mentoring
Academic and career coaching
Tuition assistance
They specialize in helping adult learners thrive in school and land high-paying jobs afterward.
Step 5: Enroll in Free Adult Education Classes
Looking to earn your GED or improve your English before starting college or job training? You can find free programs through:
These classes can be a launching pad to further education or employment.
Step 6: Search for Scholarships
Use these tools to find scholarships that fit your background, goals, and life experience:
Final Thoughts
Free and low-cost education funding is within reach for adults in the Chicagoland area—you just need to know where to look. Start with the FAFSA, explore workforce programs like WIOA, and take advantage of local resources like City Colleges and One Million Degrees. Your next career step could be tuition-free.
