To give thousands of Chicagoans the chance to return to college and earn a credential, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) Chancellor Juan Salgado announced the launch of Fresh Start, a college debt forgiveness program.  Fresh Start offers more than 21,000 former City Colleges students the opportunity to return to college, clear their debt, and earn a college certificate or degree. 

Through Fresh Start, a returning City College’s student will see half of their outstanding debt forgiven if they remain enrolled and make Satisfactory Academic Progress through their first new term. The remaining half of their balance will be forgiven when they complete their credential – either an associate degree, advanced or basic certificate, based on their academic plan. Those interested in taking advantage of Fresh Start will:

• Enroll in at least one credit course at CCC

• Pay a one-time $75 non-refundable re-instatement fee upon re-enrollment

• Meet with an advisor to develop an plan to support their academic goals

• Meet with a financial counselor and develop a credit action plan to support their financial goals

• Complete the FAFSA, if eligible (by August 1st for the 2020-21 academic year)

• Satisfy new term payment arrangements (e.g. payment plan or financial aid)

• Remain enrolled for the current term and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress

The Fresh Start program will take effect with the fall 2020 semester and run through 2023. City Colleges invites qualifying individuals to take advantage of this opportunity by calling 773-COLLEGE or going online at www.ccc.edu/FreshStart.  The deadline to register for 16-week credit classes at City Colleges of Chicago is August 20, 2020.