The University of Chicago is a prestigious and innovative university that provides high-quality education to students worldwide. Through its diverse degree programs, the school fosters a positive, innovative learning environment providing its students with an immersive educational experience. The University of Chicago’s acceptance rate is low, bolstering a sense of healthy competition.
Familiarizing yourself with the University of Chicago admission requirements can help you get into the school and onto the path toward achieving your future career goals. This guide will help you learn about the University of Chicago admissions process and eligibility requirements if this is one of your dream schools and you want to learn more about it.
Is the University of Chicago Easy to Get Into?
No, getting into the University of Chicago isn’t easy because the school has a very low acceptance rate. The University of Chicago’s acceptance rate is just 7 percent, according to US News & World Report. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) puts that number at just 6 percent. To determine your eligibility, look into the specific degree program and departmental requirements of the major you’d like to pursue.
What Is the University of Chicago’s Acceptance Rate?
The University of Chicago’s acceptance rate is somewhere between 6 and 7 percent. This very low acceptance rate is a reflection of both the high standards of the school and the high demand of students who want to go there. If you want to increase your chances of gaining acceptance, read through the degree requirements carefully and make sure that you can meet them.
What Is the University of Chicago’s Transfer Acceptance Rate?
The University of Chicago’s transfer acceptance rate is 55 percent. Compared to other top-ranked schools, the University of Chicago’s transfer acceptance rate is relatively high.
What Is the University of Chicago’s Early Decision Acceptance Rate?
The University of Chicago’s early decision acceptance rate is not publicly available. However, in general, students who apply for undergraduate programs before the regular enrollment date have a higher chance of being admitted. Be sure to tailor your application according to the requirements of your specific degree program.
University of Chicago Admissions: An Overview
- Number of Applicants at the University of Chicago per Year: 37,974
- University of Chicago Acceptance Rate: 7%
You can apply to the University of Chicago through the Common Application or the Coalition Application, the latter of which is for transfer students. There is an application fee that must be paid, or your application won’t be considered. To enroll, submit your official high school or college transcripts and two teacher evaluations.
In addition to the required official documents, you must also submit a financial aid application, a personal and supplemental essay, and a video profile. It’s highly recommended that you submit these requirements electronically. Keep in mind that these are the general admission requirements for the school, and your degree program may have its own specific admission requirements.
Who Gets Into the University of Chicago?
Those who get into the University of Chicago meet the school and department admission requirements. The school enrolled 17,834 students in 2020, according to Data USA. More than 6,300 degrees were awarded by the University of Chicago that year, with 46.9 percent going to women and 53.1 percent to men.
University of Chicago Enrollment by Ethnicity
- White – 36.9%
- Asian – 14.9%
- Hispanic/Latino – 9.94%
University of Chicago Acceptance Rate by Major
The University of Chicago has in-demand degree programs to help students around the world jumpstart their careers and access high-paying jobs. Popular majors include computer science, management science, and ecommerce and quantitative economics.
Acceptance Rate by Major at the University of Chicago
- Ecommerce and Quantitative Economics: 7%
- Computer Science: 7%
- Management Science: 7%
University of Chicago Application Deadline: When Is the University of Chicago’s Application Due?
The deadline to apply to the University of Chicago is November 1. There are four different application plans offered by the school. For applicants who want to receive an admission decision early, consider the Early Action or Early Decision I application plans.
If you miss the early applications’ deadlines, you can apply via the Early Decision II or Regular Decision applications. The application deadline for these two options is January 4. These application plans are binding. Therefore, if you commit to the University of Chicago, you must withdraw applications from other schools.
University of Chicago Application Deadlines
- Early Decision Deadline: November 1
- Early Action Deadline: November 1
- Application Fee: $75
- Common App: Yes
What Are the Major Reasons to Go to the University of Chicago?
The major reasons to go to the University of Chicago include the curriculum quality, the school’s reputation and rankings, and its research opportunities. Its location in Hyde Park can’t go without mentioning. This unique cultural district features tree-lined streets, historic architecture, parks, and more. Below, discover details about what makes the University of Chicago an excellent college option.
Curriculum Quality
The University of Chicago offers innovative curricula taught by industry experts. Its comprehensive core curriculum program teaches students how to think, preparing them for all their future studies. Degree programs provide the education and skills students need to succeed at the highest levels through complex real-world projects and other hands-on experiences.
Reputation and Rankings
One of the biggest benefits of attending the University of Chicago is the prestige that comes with it. The school consistently ranks among the top 10 schools in the US, along with reputable Ivy League institutions like Harvard University and Princeton University. With a degree from the University of Chicago, you will stand out from the competition.
Research Opportunities
The University of Chicago offers ample research opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students alike. Its College Center for Research and Fellowships supports undergrads specifically through competitive fellowship opportunities and through mentorships and advising with key faculty members.
Tips for Applying to the University of Chicago
The University of Chicago’s low acceptance rate of 6 to 7 percent and high-ranking education opportunities make it a highly competitive school to get into. Below are some tips to consider when applying to the school.
Do Your Research
To increase your admissions chances, start with the University of Chicago’s website and your specific program’s page. Look into student reviews and see if you can find a former or current student to speak with to get additional information about the admission process. This will help you tailor your application form to meet the school’s requirements and expectations.
Start the Application Process Early
Starting your application process early will allow you ample time to compile your documents, request letters of recommendation, and write your application essays. Your referees will appreciate being given enough time to write a solid letter of recommendation, and you will have time to seek input for your personal essays and do rewrites which can enhance your application outcomes.
Be Honest
Although you’ll want to impress the University of Chicago admissions officers, it’s important to remain authentic while doing so. Application readers will be fact-checking every piece of information you submit during the application review process. Make sure that your essay is original and that your documents support your stated academic and career experiences to enhance your chances of being accepted by the admission committee.
University of Chicago Admissions Requirements: First-Year Applicant Checklist
First-year applicants must meet the following University of Chicago admission requirements to gain entry. These requirements are standard for all interested applicants. Be sure to check with your specific department and academic program for any additional requirements.
- Application and application fee
- High school transcript
- Two teacher evaluations
- College transcripts, if applicable
- Admission and supplemental essays
University of Chicago SAT Requirements
Below are the average standardized test scores for students who submitted their SATs results to the University of Chicago. A 25th percentile figure means that 25 percent of students scored at or below the related score, while a 75th percentile figure tells us that 25 percent scored above that number.
- Students Submitting SAT Scores: 49%
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 740 (25th percentile); 780 (75th percentile)
- SAT Math: 770 (25th percentile); 800 (75th percentile)
University of Chicago ACT Requirements
You can also use your ACT scores to seek admission into the University of Chicago. Like SAT scores, ACT scores will be used to determine a high school student’s readiness for a college degree program. The ACT isn’t as popular as the SAT when it comes to students’ University of Chicago applications.
- Students Submitting ACT Scores: 35%
- ACT Composite: 33 (25th percentile); 35 (75th percentile)
- ACT English: 34 (25th percentile); 36 (75th percentile)
- ACT Math: 31 (25th percentile); 35 (75th percentile)
Acing Your University of Chicago Application: What Is the Best Way to Prepare for the SAT and ACT?
Start Early
The best way to prepare for the SAT and ACT exams is to start early. Compile study materials to ensure that you have a wide array of resources that will help you succeed. You can take advantage of test-prep books and academic study guides, many of which are available online.
Take a Test-Prep Class
Taking at least one test-prep class is essential in helping you ace your SAT and ACT exams. These courses are taught by professionals who are familiar with the tests and can give you a good idea of what to expect.
Do Practice Tests
You must allocate enough time to complete at least one full-length practice test. Your results will show you your areas of strength and weakness, and you can join study groups to focus on areas where you are less confident.
University of Chicago GPA Requirements: What GPA Do I Need to Get In?
To get into the University of Chicago, there isn’t a specific grade point average (GPA) or high school class-ranking requirement, but your GPA will still be considered, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The school makes ACT and SAT scores optional, too, but as we saw in the previous section, most students do submit them, and the scores are competitive.
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University of Chicago Tuition: How Much Does it Cost to Attend the University of Chicago?
The estimated tuition for one year at the University of Chicago is $62,241 for full-time undergraduates, according to NCES. This cost does not include books and supplies or room and board. NCES estimates show that books and supplies will cost you $1,800. For on-campus room and board, you can expect to pay $17,685.
Common Majors at the University of Chicago
In 2020, there were 3,357 degrees awarded to men and 2,966 degrees awarded to women from the University of Chicago. Out of these degrees, the most common majors included management science, computer science, and ecommerce and quantitative economics. Find details about these majors below.
Management Science
If you are looking for a doctoral program in management science that leverages mathematical and computer methods, look into the University of Chicago. Its advanced degree program in this major will help you learn best practices through mentorship and collaborative research activities. Below are some job opportunities you can explore with this major.
Best Jobs for Management Science Graduates
- Financial analyst
- Human resources manager
- Project manager
Computer Science
You can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science at the University of Chicago. The school also provides an accelerated option for accepted students who want to combine their undergraduate degree with their master’s degree program.
Best Jobs for Computer Science Graduates
- Software developer
- UX designer
- Mobile app developer
Ecommerce and Quantitative Economics
You can use the University of Chicago’s Bachelor’s Degree in Economics program to build solid skills that are useful in today’s economy. The program helps you master the economic model and understand its interaction with income and market models. Below are some lucrative job opportunities for economics graduates.
Best Jobs for Ecommerce and Quantitative Economics Graduates
- Financial advisor
- Financial analyst
- Operations research analyst
University of Chicago Attendance Outcomes
University of Chicago is a top-tier school, and its graduates enjoy robust opportunities in in-demand fields. As part of your education resources at the school, you will have access to more than 4,000 internships, including 900 in Chicago alone, plus short job-shadowing opportunities and micro internships. You will also have access to employer connections and campus and local jobs.
Students use these opportunities to gain real-world skills to help them land jobs after graduation. Most University of Chicago graduates can make a positive impact on the companies they work for, like Credit Suisse, Deloitte, Stanford University, Accenture, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan Chase and Co. Below, you will find a list of some of the most common jobs for people who attended the University of Chicago.
Most Common Jobs for People Who Attended the University of Chicago
| Position | Median Salary | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Lawyer | $127,990 | 9% |
| Judge | $128,710 | 3% |
| Social Worker | $50,390 | 12% |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 | 12% |
| Middle School Teacher | $61,320 | 7% |
University of Chicago Alumni Highest-Paying Jobs
| Position | Median Salary | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Surgeon | $208,000 | 3% |
| Physician | $208,000 | 3% |
| Architectural and Engineering Manager | $152,350 | 4% |
| Financial Analyst | $81,410 | 6% |
| Financial Services Agent | $62,910 | 4% |
Should I Apply to the University of Chicago?
Yes, you should apply to the University of Chicago if you meet the admission requirements. The school boasts an impressive 96 percent graduation rate, according to Data USA, which makes it very successful in its goal to provide students with high-quality education programs and degrees.
The University of Chicago also receives positive reviews from its ongoing students and graduates. The school’s world-class curriculum, competitive research, and real-world immersion experiences attract students from all over the world.
University of Chicago Acceptance Rate FAQ
No, you do not necessarily need a high GPA to enroll in the University of Chicago. The school does not require your GPA but may consider it if provided. Having a good GPA certainly wouldn’t hurt your chances of being accepted.
Although SAT scores also aren’t required by the University of Chicago, the school does take them into consideration. Students typically have between 740 and 780 scores on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section and between 770 and 800 on the Math portion. If you’d like to increase your chances of getting a high score, there are many SAT prep books and guides available.
Like GPA and SAT scores, ACT scores are also not required by the University of Chicago, so you don’t need to study for the ACT. However, students who submit ACT scores typically score between 33 and 35 overall, with at least a 34 in English and a 31 in math.
For the 2020-2021 school year, the University of Chicago admitted 7,056 undergraduates, 48 percent of whom were women and 52 percent of whom were men, according to NCES.
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