Early College Program (ECP)

Dates, Submission, Exhibition Info, & more.
As part of the Northern Illinois Regional Art Exhibition, we are now offering each registered school the opportunity to have its most promising students to submit an Early College Program portfolio to be considered for scholarships by our college and university partners. These programs, offered by many collegiate programs, offer a fantastic and unique opportunity to underclass high school students that cannot be had anywhere else. Teachers and parents often tell us that students who attend these programs come back with much more artistic vision and maturity than they had when they first left for the summer!
Why should students participate in this show?​
• Last year students received a total of over $100 thousand in pre-college scholarships. • Early College Programs (ECPs) give students the opportunity to work with college faculty, facilities, and resources. • Some ECP programs let students live in their on-campus student housing. • Students can earn college credit that may transfer to any other colleges they attend.
2026 Early College Exhibition:
Event & Awards: Sunday, April 19th, 2026- 11:30am-4pm
On Display: 3/16-26 - 4/19/26
Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60609