Dear CPS Teachers, Arts Liaisons, and Counselors, I am writing to let you know about a very special program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) developed exclusively for Chicago Public School (CPS) students. The College Arts Access Program (CAAP) is a three-year college bridge program designed for students dedicated to studying art and design. CAAP equips CPS high school students with the skills and preparation needed for admission to SAIC, another school of art and design, or any post-secondary institution. Students accepted into CAAP enroll in courses offered through SAIC’s Early College Program (ECP) and scholarships are provided to cover program tuition and fees, art supplies, transportation fees, and meal costs. Additionally, the program provides academic support, financial planning support, advising, and mentorship to form a holistic program committed to the success of each student. CAAP students who apply and are accepted into SAIC's undergraduate program may be eligible for special scholarships and college work-study jobs. This spring, SAIC will accept 15 current freshmen (rising sophomores) to begin this three-year program in the fall 2021 semester. In order to support the core values and goals of CAAP, the committee will select a range of students with varying backgrounds and motivations from different CPS high schools and neighborhoods. This process creates a comprehensive representation of students interested in art and design from all across Chicago. 2020/2021 CAAP Timeline: Beginning in September, 2020: CPS teachers and counselors contact Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions to schedule a virtual CAAP visit to their classroom January – March, 2021: Admissions hosts CAAP visits at CPS high schools across the city March 26, 2021: CAAP Application Deadline May, 2021: CAAP Review Committee will evaluate all eligible applicants and send out communication regarding status on or before the end of May June, 2021: Fall 2021 cohort of CAAP students confirmed The Undergraduate Admissions department at SAIC would be glad to meet with you and your students to share more information about the College Arts Access Program (CAAP). To schedule a school visit or meeting to make this exciting program available for truly deserving CPS students, or for more information about CAAP and the application process, please contact Jonathan Korotko, Assistant Director of oncampus Admissions at jkortoko@saic.edu. Visit saic.edu/caap for more information and to download an application and instructions. Please note that application materials are due on Friday, March 26, 2021. Thank you in advance and we look forward to hearing from you.
Most Sincerely, Kristina Wyatt Dean of Continuing Studies