University News

Western Illinois University Partners with City Colleges of Chicago to Expand Access and Affordability for Transfer Students

February 20, 2025

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University is proud to announce a new partnership with City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) that provides additional financial support and educational opportunities for Star Scholars transferring to WIU.

As part of this collaboration, WIU will offer six Star Scholars a $500 annual scholarship for up to two years. To be eligible, students must meet the following criteria:


  • Have earned an associate degree from CCC or completed the Illinois Articulation Initiative General Education Core Curriculum (IAI GECC).

  • Maintain a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

  • Submit an application for admission to WIU by Aug. 1.

  • Maintain a 3.0 GPA at WIU for scholarship renewal for an additional year.

  • Be a participant in the STAR program at CCC.



Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, determined by the completed application date, including all required transcripts.

"We are so pleased to partner with WIU to offer our Star Scholars additional funding as they continue their education, earn a bachelor's degree and get one step closer to their academic and career goals," said City Colleges Executive Vice Chancellor-Chief Student Experience Officer Aarti Dhupelia.

Additionally, Star Scholars can further reduce their tuition costs by stacking this scholarship with other financial aid opportunities, including:


  • Transfer Commitment Scholarships: Up to $2,000 per year, awarded based on college GPA ($1,000, $1,500 or $2,000 levels).

  • Phi Theta Kappa Scholarships: Up to $1,000 per year for members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.



WIU remains committed to expanding access to higher education through initiatives such as the Guaranteed Admissions Program (GAP), which ensures seamless transfers for community college students.

As part of its ongoing efforts to make higher education more accessible, WIU is also offering free applications throughout February. With Division I athletics, a vibrant campus community with residential housing, more than 200 student organizations and the Western Way program covering tuition and fees for eligible students, WIU continues to provide pathways for student success.

"We are excited to strengthen our collaboration with City Colleges of Chicago through the Star partnership and offer additional support for students looking to continue their education at WIU," Interim Vice President for Student Success Justin Schuch said. "This initiative underscores our dedication to affordability, accessibility and student success."

For more information on the Star partnership, or to apply to WIU for free in February, visit wiu.edu/admissions/star_scholarship.php.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing