FAQ

CAAP students are creative, motivated Chicago Public Schools students who want to grow as artists in a college setting. The program is designed for students who show a strong interest in the arts and can demonstrate significant financial need.

CAAP is a rigorous, college-level program. Students should be ready to attend weekly classes, complete assignments, and participate in activities during the fall, spring, and summer terms.

Applicants must demonstrate financial need. If you or your household receives free or reduced school meals, SNAP benefits, Medicaid, disability, HUD housing assistance, or unemployment, you’re likely eligible.

You can earn up to 6 college credits through CAAP.

Credits are earned from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), which has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1936.

Most colleges accept SAIC credits, but each school makes its own decision. If you plan to attend another college, you can ask that school if they’ll accept your credits.

• Fall and spring classes meet for 3 hours each week for 10 weeks, usually on Saturdays or Sundays.
• Summer classes meet half or full days for 2 weeks.
• Before your senior year, you’ll participate in the ECP Summer Institute and have the opportunity to live in the dorms.
   

CAAP students are expected to attend all classes and outside activities at the scheduled time and arrive prepared. They should also participate fully in all critiques, complete all assignments, and meet course deadlines.

Yes. Along with class attendance, CAAP students must attend:

• Orientation sessions
• Mentor meetings
• At least one workshop per year
• Chicago National Portfolio Day (NPD) in junior and senior year

These activities are a big part of your CAAP experience!
 

You’ll get meal funds added to your student ID (ARTICard) to use at on-campus dining spots. The amount depends on how long you’re on campus that semester.

You’ll receive a Ventra card each semester to cover transportation to and from SAIC.

Yes—you’ll get a supply budget for each term to help cover materials you need for your classes.

CAAP students are part of a creative, supportive community. You’ll have access to mentors, instructors, and staff who are here to help you succeed and explore your interests as an artist.

Your classes are taught by SAIC faculty—artists, designers, writers, and scholars, many of whom also teach in the college’s undergraduate program. They’re passionate about art-making and will challenge you to think and create in new ways.
 

As a CAAP student, you’ll receive an SAIC ID (ARTICard) that gives you:

• Free admission to the Art Institute of Chicago anytime
• Access to the Flaxman Library and special art collections, like the Fashion Resource Center, Textile Resource Center, and Video Data Bank

You’ll also get to experience what it’s like to be a real college art student while still in high school, especially while participating in the Early College Program Summer Institute residential experience in the summer before your senior year.