Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a program for high school students?
Yes! Columbia offers the High School Summer Institute for students who have completed their sophomore year.  For more information, please visit their website:  www.colum.edu/Admissions/hssi.php

Where are you located?
The Summer Arts Camp takes place in the Columbia College Theater building at 72 East 11th Street (between Michigan and Wabash) in Chicago's South Loop neighborhood. We are across the street from Grant Park. The CTA 's red, green and orange lines are a few blocks away as well as the Metra Roosevelt stop.

What's the earliest I can drop my child off in the morning?
Our day begins at 9am but you may drop your child off anytime between 8:30-9:00am. Children are not allowed in the building before 8:30 am unless accompanied by an adult who must wait with them until 8:30 am.

Do I need to park in order to drop off or pick up my child?
No. In the morning we have counselors waiting outside from 8:30 to 9:00 to greet and escort your child into the building. Just pull up and drop off! If you arrive late (after 9am) you will need to double park for a moment and escort your child inside. At 3:30 your child will be waiting outside with their group for dismissal.

Can my child leave at the end of the day by his or herself?
It's up to you. Some of our older campers take the metra or L home by themselves; others walk to their parent's office in the loop. Before the session begins you will receive a form to tell us your dismissal arrangements.

What's the camper to adult ratio?
In most instances, it's 6 children to 1 adult. Children are divided into groups based on grade. Each group has about 20 campers and 2 counselors.  Classes are taught by by 1-2 instructors. In addition we have floating counselors who go where needed.

What if my child has to miss a few days?
Our teachers will do their best to accommodate campers who have missed projects, but keep in mind that certain projects cannot be made up due to facilities and schedule restrictions. All of our work leads up to an end of session performance and gallery show.

Can my child attend for just a few weeks?
Its best to attend the entire session, for our projects build upon one another to culminate in a final performance and exhibit. We are unable to prorate fees for partial attendance.

Is there camp on Friday July 3rd?
Because the 4th of July Holiday falls on a Saturday this year, the college will also be closed on Friday July 3rd.  The entire campus will be closed.

What happens in After Camp?
After Camp is an extended care program for parents who cannot pick their children up at the usual dismissal of 3:30pm. After Camp runs from 3:30-5:30pm. All children must be picked up no later than 5:30 pm for the building closes shortly thereafter. Kids are provided with a snack and we usually play outside (next door in the sculpture garden) for a bit, followed by an activity of the day. Activities vary from games to small art projects and a once a week movie. After Camp costs $400 for the 6-week session or $14 per day if used on a per-day basis.

Is there a sibling discount?
If you are signing up more than one child, we offer a 15% discount off the total tuition cost.

How and when do I register?
We will begin accepting registrations by phone on January 5, 2009. Please be aware that the program fills quickly so it's best to register early. We do keep a waiting list as people occasionally make last minute changes. A $300 deposit (per child) is required at the time of registration, payable by credit card or check. Cancellations after May 1, 2009 are non-refundable.

Am I eligible for financial aid?
Limited financial aid is available for families whose annual income does not exceed $50,000 and who meet certain eligibility requirements. Financial aid applications are available from January 2 through March 3, 2009. Call or email for more information.