For readers in Chicago, this page covers grants, loans, work-study and scholarships that help students pay for education. Reporting follows federal aid rules, state programs and the institutions that administer them.
The University of Chicago's Student Government Finance Committee has introduced progressive fundraising requirements for organizations requesting more than $2,500.
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Should student groups have to raise more of their own money for large requests?
November 6, 2026
Howe Sixth Graders Complete Financial Literacy ProgramThirty students at Howe School of Excellence in Chicago finished a six-week course on budgeting, saving, investing, and credit.
October 28, 2026
Chicago Vodka Startup Helps Pay Student LoansFounded in 2024, the alcohol brand SINTAX directs a portion of its sales toward easing student loan debt.
October 22, 2026
Student Loan Forgiveness Revoked in Chicago CaseA former Chicago commuter rail worker faces unexpected debt after federal officials disqualified previously approved loan payments.
October 8, 2026
Chicago Board Proposed New Student Fee PolicyA district committee unanimously recommended standardized school fees and expanded waiver eligibility for students.
October 8, 2026
Chicago Student Council Reintroduced Space Access MotionThe undergraduate council took steps to allow non-registered student groups to reserve campus space.
October 5, 2026
DePaul Students Approved New Investment ReferendumThe Student Government Association moved to hold a vote on university financial transparency this fall.
October 1, 2026
Chicago Public Schools Rehired 350 StaffersThe school district brought back hundreds of employees following a late July board mandate.
September 29, 2026
Learn Hunter Perkins Unveiled $10.5 Million ExpansionThe Auburn Gresham school expansion adds new classrooms and facilities to serve its 550 students.
September 26, 2026
Columbia College Budget Deficit Dropped to $18 MillionThe institution cut its operating deficit by more than half compared to the previous fiscal year's $40 million shortfall.
September 24, 2026
DePaul Student Government Demanded Financial DisclosureThe student association pushed for greater transparency regarding university financial activities.
This section follows FAFSA changes that affect eligibility, new state grant programs, scholarship expansions and deadline reminders for students. It reaches the city and the communities around it, wherever an aid story affects students who attend school in Chicago. Federal rule changes and state implementation do not always line up, so the two are often reported in separate threads. Application deadlines and eligibility thresholds are the constraints that most often shape whether a student actually receives support.
