📢 Center Closure Notice

Please Note: The Rising Scholars Center will be closed from July 27 through August 19, 2026.

The center will reopen on August 19, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

Thank you for your interest in the Rising Scholars Program. Applications for Fall 2026 are now closed. If you would like to be considered for Spring 2027, please complete the Interest Form, and a staff member will reach out to provide information about the application process and next steps.

Thank you for your interest in the Rising Scholars Program!

Rising Scholars Interest Form

Welcome Rising Scholar!

The Rising Scholars program is committed to supporting incarcerated, formerly incarcerated and justice impacted students through every stage of their educational journey. We offer comprehensive assistance, including help with applications, financial aid, academic counseling, and peer support.

We are dedicated to maintaining a positive, judgment-free space. Our goal is to help students from reentry all the way to graduation or transfer.

Eligibility

To be eligible for our program you must be:

  • A City College Student
  • Submit a Rising Scholars Application
  • Enrolled in at least 3 units
  • Attend Rising Scholars Orientation
  • Formerly incarcerated (i.e. juvenile detention, county jail or prison) or justice impacted (parole, probation)
  • Meet with a counselor at least twice a semester
  • Establish a Comprehensive Educational Plan
  • Enroll in at least 3 units
  • Complete CCSF Online Welcome Orientation

Onboarding:

Academic Assistance:

  • Priority Registration
  • Peer Mentoring
  • Individualized Academic Counseling
  • Staff support
  • Transfer Support
  • Tutoring Referrals

Material Support:

  • Textbook Vouchers - Based on availability
  • Clipper Card - Based on availability
  • Technology Rental - Rosenberg Library
  • School Supplies 

Additional Services:

  • Advocacy Letters: Letters written for you to judges, courts, parole and probation letters. In addition, we may support with additional program referrals.
  • Rising Scholars Collaborative Group: Rising Scholars Collaborative provides support for students transitioning back into the community and college. We focus on emotional well-being, restorative justice, overcoming self-doubt, building resilience, and other key areas.
  • Workshops and Events: Throughout the semester we will be hosting a variety of workshops and events such as: Clean Slate Workshops, Unground Scholars and Project Rebound Workshops, Career Exploration Workshops etc.