COLLEGE ARTS ACCESS PROGRAM (CAAP) APPLICATION INFORMATION A Bridge to SAIC and Beyond: The College Arts Access Program (CAAP) is a college bridge program for Chicago Public School (CPS) students committed to studying art and design. Developed to support exceptional students who demonstrate significant financial need, scholarships are provided to cover all program tuition and fees. Designed as a multi-year, holistic program, CAAP prepares high school students with the skills needed for admission to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) or another postsecondary institution. Apply online at saic.edu/CAAPapply. If you are unable to submit your application online or have questions about the application process, please email CAAP@saic.edu or call 312.629.6170.
Key CAAP Components → → → → → →
Students enroll in courses offered in the world-renowned Early College Program at SAIC Students may earn up to six college credits upon completion of program Scholarships cover all program tuition and fees including supplies, transportation, meals, and activity fees Academic advising, mentorship, and college application and financial planning support is provided Portfolio requirements and application fee for SAIC undergraduate admission is waived Students who are accepted to SAIC’s undergraduate program are eligible for special scholarships and on- campus jobs
Who Can Apply? CPS students entering their sophomore year in fall 2021 may apply. CAAP students will be chosen based on: → → → → →
A demonstrated commitment to academic excellence Interest in pursuing a creative career path at a postsecondary institution Recommendation from a teacher or other academic professional 3–5 examples of art/design work from the past year Financial need
Application Requirements Answer the College Arts Access Program Application Questions at saic.edu/CAAPapply → Essay: Writing is an important component of being a creative professional. As part of your application, you are required to submit a personal essay describing why you would like to be selected to participate in CAAP—one page recommended length. → Recommendation: Applicants must submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher or other academic professional who can evaluate your motivation, commitment, maturity, and potential to succeed in CAAP—recommendation form included in application. → Transcript: One high school transcript from each high school you attended. Note: A minimum grade point average of 3.0 is preferred, but is not required for consideration. → High School Attendance Record: One attendance record from each high school you attended. → Financial Documentation: Financial documentation must include a copy of the family's most recent 1040 tax form. If you are unable to provide this, please contact Continuing Studies at 312.629.6170 or caap@saic.edu. → Art/Design Work Samples: Submit 3–5 pieces of your best and most recent work that reflect your interests, skills, and willingness to explore, experiment, and express yourself. We welcome final artworks, portions of sketchbooks, and in-progress works for submission. • You may submit digital images, video, and/or audio. Video/audio should not be longer than 5 minutes.
How Can I Apply? Gather all the required application materials (listed above) and submit online using SAIC's SlideRoom portal at saic.edu/CAAPapply. If you are unable to submit online or have questions about the application process, please email CAAP@saic.edu or call 312.629.6170. We're happy to help!