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Scholar Application - Class of 2029

Welcome!

HFS Chicago Scholars
Application for 8th Grade Students Entering High School in Fall 2025

EXTENDED APPLICATION DEADLINE - DECEMBER 2, 2024

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Who is Eligible to Apply for HFS Chicago Scholars?

Eighth grade students who want to attend a private high school that requires tuition and who meet the required criteria listed below are encouraged to apply for HFS Chicago Scholars. It may not be necessary to exhibit all of the elements listed. 

• Grade Point Average of 3.0 or Above (B average or above for 7th and 8th grades)
• Average to Above Average standardized test scores (from seventh grade)
• Strong attendance and behavior record in 7th and 8th grades
• Evidence of leadership potential
• Evidence of positive academic work ethic
• Demonstration of financial need
• Income level of 55k and under - Provide proof of income
• Large families with higher incomes and/or extenuating circumstances are considered

Students who are accepted as Scholars must attend Signing Day and agree to the terms outlined in the HFS Scholarship Agreement for Success which includes expectations for academic standards, commitment to community service, and active participation in HFS-sponsored events and mentoring.

Additionally, all incoming Scholars are required to attend and successfully complete summer enrichment courses offered by HFS in preparation for high school. Tuition for this summer program is covered by HFS.

Supporting Documents
All supporting documents must be postmarked by the Extended Application Deadline - December 2, 2024.

The following documentation is required to complete each application file:

  • Four handwritten essays - PRINT these pages and complete - Applicant Essay Questions
    • If you are unable to print, please write the questions and your responses on lined paper.
  • Income verification (provide at least one of the following)
    • Most recently filed Federal Tax Return - form 1040 - pages 1 and 2
    • Letter, on letterhead, from employer, indicating cash wages paid
    • Documentation for SSI or other benefits
  • Final 7th grade report card
  • Current 8th grade report card
  • 7th grade standardized test scores 

How to submit supporting documents:

  1. Upload all documents at the end of the online application.

    OR
     
  2. Mail all documents in ONE large envelope to:
HFS Chicago Scholars
Attn: Application Review Board
1074 W. Taylor St., Mail Suite #201
Chicago, IL 60607


Recommendation Form

All recommendation forms must be submitted by the Extended Application Deadline - December 2, 2024.
 
At least one recommendation form must be submitted by a Math teacher, English teacher, or counselor. Each applicant must have at least one letter of recommendation. No more than 3 recommendation forms will be accepted for each applicant.  Provide the link below to your recommender(s).

HFS Chicago Scholars Applicant Recommendation Form


Applying for High School
All applicants are required to:

  1. Take the high school entrance exam
  2. Apply to the high school of their choice
  3. Apply for financial aid from their high school

Important Dates


October 16th
HFS Chicago Scholars Open House & High School Fair 
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 PM 
Location: De La Salle Institute | 3434 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

--> Register for the Open House here: bit.ly/HFSopenhouse24
 

December 2nd
Completed applications must be submitted, supporting documents must be postmarked, and recommendation forms must be submitted by December 2nd.  Faxes are not accepted.  If you are not uploading supporting materials to the online application, they should be mailed in one large envelope to: HFS Chicago Scholars, 1074 W. Taylor St., Mail Suite #201, Chicago, IL 60607.


JANUARY
Applicants notified if selected for an interview
Reminder to Candidates – Apply for financial aid at your prospective high schools.


FEBRUARY
1st and 2nd Round Interviews held. 


MARCH
Interviewed candidates are notified if selected for a scholarship.  


APRIL
Scholarship and Wait-list Acceptance Forms due along with final high school choice, acceptance into other scholarships, and proof of enrollment in high school.


MAY
Class of 2029 Scholars required to attend Signing Day and register for summer school.


JUNE
5-week summer school program begins.


Please direct all questions and concerns to the Applicant Review Board at applicantreviewboard@hfschicagoscholars.com.
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