Excel Academies of Chicago

Open to students ages 15-21, Excel Academies provides the opportunity to graduate in 2.5 years or less, all with NO tuition or enrollment fees.

Whether you’re returning to school or looking for a setting that truly supports your growth, we provide a smaller, more personal learning environment—intensely focused on elevating social skills, emotional wellness, and academic success.

Why Excel Academies?

Excel Academies of Chicago are tuition-free, accelerated high schools for students ages 15–21 who are behind in credits. In our smaller, relationship-focused setting, students can earn up to 10 credits per year and graduate in 2.5 years or less.

We provide personalized support, counseling, and skill-building to help students grow emotionally and academically.

Excel Academy has four locations across Chicago where students feel safe, seen, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Accelerated Learning Pathway

Credit Recovery and Graduation Readiness

Students ages 15 to 21 who are over-age and/or under-credited, and need targeted academic recovery to stay on track for graduation.

  • Students significantly behind in credits
  • Learners at risk of not graduating with their peers

  • Individualized graduation plans
  • Credit recovery and standards-based instruction
  • Small group academic support
  • Career and post-secondary readiness activities

A typical Excel student may be 17-years-old and contemplating dropping out of school. They are far behind in credits due to multiple family issues that resulted in chronic absences during their early high school years. They may have a strong interest in technology and has mentioned studying computer science.

How SESI Supports Students: In the Accelerated Learning Pathway, our students engages in a structured curriculum designed to help them recover credits and achieve grade-level promotion. The program emphasizes credit acquisition, volunteer and community service, senior project portfolios, and post-secondary preparation. Through personalized academic plans and supportive counseling, they are empowered to take charge of their education, rebuild their confidence, and work towards graduation and future success.


Discover how we can support your child.

To learn more about our program, schedule a tour, or request enrollment materials – please complete the form and a member of our team will contact you shortly. Thank you for considering Excel Academies!

Events & Stories

  • School leader presenting during Excel Academy of Roseland’s State of the School Address.

    Excel Roseland Outlines Student Success at State of the School Address

    Excel Academy of Roseland’s State of the School Address highlighted student growth, accelerated graduation pathways, school culture and the CPS renewal process.
    October 9, 2026
  • Men of Purpose students, including members of the Excel Academy of Englewood community, posing together during their Portland trip.

    Trip to Nike and Jordan Brand Headquarters Expands Horizons for Englewood Students

    A four-day visit to Nike and Jordan Brand headquarters gave Excel Academy of Englewood students firsthand exposure to careers, leadership and professional opportunities.
    October 5, 2026
  • Excel Southwest students and staff inside the Obama Presidential Center

    Excel Southwest Students Explore Obama Presidential Center

    Excel Southwest students explored the Obama Presidential Center and discovered connections to local history, community resources and future opportunities.
    September 30, 2026