University of Chicago

A
Overall Grade
A+

Overall Grade

How are grades calculated?
Data Sources

A+
Academics
A-
Value
C+
Athletics
A-
Campus
A+
Professors
B
Party Scene
A
Dorms
B+
Location
A
Student Life
B+
Campus Food
B-
Safety

University of Chicago Overview

Name: University of Chicago
Location: 5801 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL 60637
Website: uchicago.edu
Athletics Division: NCAA Division III (with football)
Athletics Conference: Midwest Conference
Enrollment: 7,563 undergraduates
Popular Majors: Economics, Mathematics, Biology
Acceptance Rate: 5%
Average Net Price: $36,991/year
Graduation Rate: 96%
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation: $68,100/year


University of Chicago Rankings

  • Best Colleges for Religious Studies in America: #4 of 374
  • Best Colleges for Philosophy in America: #5 of 453
  • Best Colleges for Film and Photography in America: #5 of 285

See All University of Chicago Rankings


Admissions

  • Application Deadline: January 6
  • SAT Range: 1500-1580
  • ACT Range: 34-35
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
  • Test Optional: SAT/ACT considered but not required
  • High School GPA Requirement: Considered but not required
  • Application Links:

Academics

  • Professors: Grade A+ (Based on faculty accomplishments, salary, and student reviews)
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 3:1
  • Evening Degree Programs: No
  • Popular Majors:
    • Economics: 634 graduates/year
    • Mathematics: 169 graduates/year
    • Biology: 136 graduates/year

Academic Spotlight: Molecular and Quantum Engineering

The University of Chicago is the first in the U.S. to establish a school dedicated to molecular engineering. This program bridges science and engineering, preparing graduates for careers in R&D, consulting, public policy, and more.


Cost and Financial Aid

  • Net Price: $36,991/year (average after financial aid)
  • Average Aid Awarded: $48,422/year
  • Students Receiving Aid: 56%
  • Financial Aid Programs:
    • 100% of demonstrated need met
    • No-loan policy for qualified students

Explore Tuition & Cost Breakdown


Campus Life

  • Freshman Live On-Campus: 100%
  • Greek Life: Average presence; 53% say it’s not critical to the social scene.
  • Varsity Sports: 63% say varsity sports are not a significant part of campus life.
  • Student Life Ratings:
    • Athletics/Recreation Facilities: 55% highly rated
    • Dining Facilities: 53% highly rated
    • Performing Arts Facilities: 71% highly rated

Student Demographics

  • Full-Time Enrollment: 7,563 undergraduates
  • Part-Time Enrollment: 32 undergraduates
  • Pell Grant Recipients: 15%
  • Varsity Athletes: 7%

Polls and Insights

  • Typical Student Description:
    • 59% say, “Everyone has something interesting about them.”
    • 37% describe the school as “Intellectual.”
  • Popular Phrases About Campus:
    • “Intellectual and quirky”
    • “Unabashedly excited about learning”

After College

  • Median Earnings (6 Years Post-Graduation): $68,100/year
  • Graduation Rate: 96%
  • Employment Rate (2 Years Post-Graduation): 92%
  • Job Confidence: 85% of students feel confident about finding a job in their field.

Read More About Life After Graduation

General Information

  1. What is the University of Chicago known for?
    It is renowned for its rigorous academics, Core curriculum, and contributions to economics, philosophy, and the sciences.

  2. Where is the University of Chicago located?
    It is in Chicago, Illinois, at 5801 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL 60637.

  3. Is the University of Chicago an Ivy League school?
    No, but it is considered one of the top universities in the world, comparable to Ivy League institutions.

  4. What is the University of Chicago’s acceptance rate?
    The acceptance rate is 5%.

  5. What are the University of Chicago’s school colors?
    Maroon and white.

  6. What is the University of Chicago mascot?
    The Phoenix.

  7. When was the University of Chicago founded?
    It was founded in 1890.

  8. What type of university is the University of Chicago?
    It is a private research university.

  9. Is the University of Chicago a liberal arts college?
    It offers a liberal arts education within the structure of a major research university.

  10. Does UChicago have a religious affiliation?
    No, it is a secular institution.


Admissions

  1. What is the application deadline for UChicago?
    January 6.

  2. Does UChicago accept the Common App?
    Yes.

  3. Are SAT/ACT scores required for admission?
    No, they are considered but not required.

  4. What is the average SAT score for admitted students?
    1500-1580.

  5. What is the average ACT score for admitted students?
    34-35.

  6. Does UChicago offer Early Decision or Early Action?
    Yes, it offers Early Decision.

  7. What is the application fee for UChicago?
    $75.

  8. Can international students apply to UChicago?
    Yes, international students are encouraged to apply.

  9. What percentage of applicants are admitted?
    About 5%.

  10. Does UChicago offer interviews as part of the application process?
    Interviews are not required but may be available.


Academics

  1. What is the Core curriculum?
    A set of foundational courses in various disciplines that all students must take.

  2. What are the most popular majors at UChicago?
    Economics, Mathematics, and Biology.

  3. What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
    3:1.

  4. Does UChicago offer evening degree programs?
    No.

  5. What is the average class size?
    Most classes have fewer than 20 students.

  6. Can students double major?
    Yes, students are encouraged to explore multiple disciplines.

  7. Are research opportunities available for undergraduates?
    Yes, 80% of students engage in research.

  8. Does UChicago offer online courses?
    Some courses are available online, but most are on-campus.

  9. What is unique about UChicago’s molecular engineering program?
    It is the first school in the U.S. dedicated to molecular engineering.

  10. Are there study abroad opportunities?
    Yes, UChicago offers more than 60 study abroad programs.


Cost and Financial Aid

  1. What is the average cost of attending UChicago?
    The average net price is $36,991 per year.

  2. Does UChicago offer financial aid?
    Yes, 100% of demonstrated need is met for admitted students.

  3. What is the average financial aid package?
    $48,422 per year.

  4. Does UChicago offer scholarships?
    Yes, both merit-based and need-based scholarships are available.

  5. Does UChicago have a no-loan policy?
    Yes, for qualified students.

  6. How do I apply for financial aid?
    Submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile.

  7. Does UChicago offer aid to international students?
    Yes, but it is need-aware for international applicants.

  8. What percentage of students receive financial aid?
    About 56%.

  9. Are work-study opportunities available?
    Yes, as part of financial aid packages.

  10. What is the cost of on-campus housing?
    Housing costs vary but are included in the total cost of attendance.


Student Life

  1. Do all freshmen live on campus?
    Yes, 100% of freshmen live on campus.

  2. What percentage of students participate in Greek life?
    About 53% of students say it is not a major factor on campus.

  3. Are varsity sports popular at UChicago?
    Varsity sports are not a significant part of campus life for 63% of students.

  4. What is the campus culture like?
    Intellectual, quirky, and diverse.

  5. What clubs and organizations are available?
    There are over 400 student organizations.

  6. What is the dining experience like?
    Dining facilities are highly rated by 53% of students.

  7. Does UChicago have day care services?
    No.

  8. Are there opportunities for performing arts?
    Yes, 71% of students highly rate the performing arts facilities.

  9. What is UChicago’s mascot?
    The Phoenix.

  10. What is the student body size?
    Approximately 7,563 undergraduates.


Career Opportunities

  1. What is the graduation rate at UChicago?
    96%.

  2. What is the median salary for graduates?
    $68,100 six years after graduation.

  3. What percentage of students are employed after graduation?
    92% within two years.

  4. Does UChicago offer career services?
    Yes, through its career advancement office.

  5. Are internships available for students?
    Yes, internships are highly encouraged.

  6. Can students network with alumni?
    Yes, UChicago has a robust alumni network.

  7. Does UChicago host career fairs?
    Yes, career fairs and networking events are held regularly.

  8. What industries do most graduates enter?
    Finance, technology, academia, and consulting.

  9. Does UChicago have entrepreneurship programs?
    Yes, including startup incubators.

  10. Are students prepared for graduate school?
    Yes, many students pursue advanced degrees.


Campus Facilities

  1. What athletic facilities are available?
    Gyms, courts, and recreational spaces are available.

  2. Does UChicago have libraries?
    Yes, including the Regenstein Library.

  3. Are there cultural centers on campus?
    Yes, for various student groups and interests.

  4. Is Wi-Fi available on campus?
    Yes, campus-wide Wi-Fi is provided.

  5. Are there health services on campus?
    Yes, including counseling and medical services.

  6. What dining options are available?
    Dining halls, cafes, and local eateries.

  7. Are there sustainable initiatives?
    Yes, UChicago has multiple sustainability programs.

  8. Does UChicago have art galleries?
    Yes, including the Smart Museum of Art.

  9. Are there spaces for religious activities?
    Yes, multi-faith spaces are available.

  10. Is public transportation accessible from campus?
    Yes, the campus is well-connected by public transit.


Miscellaneous

  1. What is the Core curriculum?
    A foundational set of courses required for all students.

  2. What percentage of students are international?
    About 15%.

  3. Are pets allowed in dorms?
    No, pets are not permitted in university housing.

  4. What is the average class size?
    Fewer than 20 students.

  5. Does UChicago offer online degrees?
    No, all degrees require on-campus attendance.

Admissions and Application Process

  1. Does UChicago require letters of recommendation?
    Yes, typically two letters of recommendation are required.

  2. Is there an application fee waiver?
    Yes, fee waivers are available for eligible students.

  3. How can I visit the campus?
    You can schedule a campus tour or attend a virtual information session.

  4. What percentage of applicants are offered admission?
    Approximately 5% of applicants are admitted.

  5. Does UChicago offer interviews for prospective students?
    Interviews are optional and offered based on availability.

  6. Can homeschooled students apply?
    Yes, UChicago welcomes applications from homeschooled students.

  7. What is UChicago’s policy on gap years?
    Admitted students can request a gap year through the deferral process.

  8. Are there special scholarships for first-generation students?
    Yes, several scholarships and support programs are available for first-gen students.

  9. Does UChicago consider demonstrated interest in admissions?
    No, demonstrated interest is not a factor in the admissions process.

  10. What is the timeline for receiving admissions decisions?
    Decisions are typically released in mid-March for Regular Decision applicants.


Academic Resources

  1. What academic advising is available to students?
    Each student is assigned an academic advisor to assist with course selection and career planning.

  2. Can students take classes at other universities?
    Yes, cross-registration is possible through certain academic partnerships.

  3. Does UChicago have honors programs?
    Yes, many departments offer honors tracks or thesis options.

  4. Are there support services for students with disabilities?
    Yes, UChicago’s Student Disability Services provide accommodations and support.

  5. What research facilities are available on campus?
    UChicago boasts advanced labs, libraries, and centers like the Institute for Molecular Engineering.

  6. Can undergraduates participate in graduate-level courses?
    Yes, with approval from the department and faculty.

  7. Does UChicago offer study resources for standardized tests?
    Yes, resources for GRE, LSAT, and other exams are available through career services.

  8. What technology support is available for students?
    The IT Services Help Desk provides technical assistance for hardware, software, and connectivity issues.

  9. Are there tutoring services on campus?
    Yes, peer tutoring and academic workshops are available for many subjects.

  10. Does UChicago have writing support?
    Yes, the Writing Program offers assistance with essays, research papers, and other writing projects.


Housing and Campus Life

  1. What types of housing are available for students?
    Traditional dormitories, apartment-style housing, and themed residential communities.

  2. Can upperclassmen live on campus?
    Yes, housing is available for upperclassmen, though it is not mandatory.

  3. Is campus housing guaranteed for all four years?
    No, housing is only guaranteed for the first year.

  4. What are the meal plan options?
    Meal plans include flexible dining options with various meal swipes and points.

  5. Are there family housing options?
    Yes, limited family housing is available for graduate students.


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