The application for students interested in joining the Chicago Police and Firefighter Training Program for the class of 2028 is now open. Applications will be accepted from December 1, 2025 to May 1, 2026.
Requirements
- Must have an interest in public safety
- Must live in the city of Chicago
- Must be a Sophomore in High School (i.e. 10th grade)
- Must attend a Chicago high school (public, private or homeschool)
- Must be in good academic standing (2.3 GPA or better is recommended)
- Must have a good attendance record (90% and better is recommended)
- Must commit to attend each Tuesday and Wednesday between September and May
- Must complete an online application found below
- Must submit a signed Program Consent Form
- Must submit a copy of a valid school ID, state ID or driver's license
- Must provide 2 letters of recommendation
- Must provide evidence of a current physical examination
- Must complete a background check
Interested in learning more about joining the Chicago Police and Firefighter Training Academy (CPFTA)?
Attend an Information Session!
Along with CPS representatives, personnel from the Chicago Fire Department and Chicago Police Department will be present at the sessions to help answer any questions you may have.
| Date | Location | Address | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, January 31, 2026 | Quinn Fire Academy | 557 W. DeKoven, 60607 | 10-11:30am |
| Saturday, February 7, 2026 | Quinn Fire Academy | 557 W. DeKoven, 60607 | 10-11:30am |
| Thursday, February 19, 2026 | Virtual Google Meeting | Meeting Link: meet.google.com/zwo-qzbw-jrd | 6-7:30pm |
| Saturday, February 21, 2026 | Chicago Police Education and Training Academy | 1300 W. Jackson, 60607 | 10-11:30am |
| Saturday, February 28, 2026 | Chicago Police Education and Training Academy | 1300 W. Jackson Blvd., 60607 | 10-11:30am |
| Thursday, March 19, 2026 | Virtual Google Meeting | Meeting Link: meet.google.com/pju-zvqg-xdb | 6-7:30pm |
If you have further questions, please contact Carolyn Jourdan at CPFTA@cps.edu.