For some, gaining access to higher education in a country like the United States is as good as it gets. Achieving the dream of studying at an American university, where strong educational standards and supportive facilities are available, is worth the effort.
As an international student, one factor that might deter you from pursuing the “American dream” is the cost that comes with it. You may find a good balance between tuition fees and high-quality education in a city like Chicago. Here are some of Chicago’s more affordable universities and colleges that international students could apply to.
Affordable Schools in Chicago for International Students
1. Moody Bible Institute
Moody Bible Institute was founded in 1886 and is one of the city’s more affordable private religious institutions due to its tuition structure. As the name suggests, the institution is known for theological education, with a strong emphasis on Christianity.
Moody Bible Institute is primarily for students pursuing religious education. International students are welcomed into its programs, including biblical studies, biblical languages, biblical preaching, pastoral studies, and integrated ministry studies. To qualify, they must fulfill the admissions requirements, which may include biographical information, essay questions, pastoral and Christian character references, and English proficiency test results.
2. National Louis University
- Admissions | In-State Tuition | Out-State Tuition | Int’l Tuition
- Tuition Fees: from $12,420/year for full-time undergraduate students transferring in with 30 quarter hours or less; from $7,080/term for eligible full-time international transfer students with more than 30 quarter hours
Established in 1886, National Louis University is a private institution in Chicago offering a variety of educational programs on campus and online. The university offers programs in areas such as psychology, business, hospitality management, culinary management, culinary arts, and baking and pastry.
Qualifying international students are accepted at National Louis University. The school’s student and career support services help students have a comfortable experience while studying and after graduation. Students from more than 50 countries are part of NLU’s community, and the university offers free applications for its degree programs and certificates.
3. Chicago State University
Chicago State University, founded in 1867, is a public university with a long history in teacher education. It is also among the institutions in Illinois offering affordable tuition for residents, with many undergraduate and graduate degree-granting and non-degree programs available for prospective students.
The university offers programs in the arts, sciences, business, health sciences, and education, including computer science, media arts, engineering-related options, psychology, and others. As a public institution, it supports multiple scholarships and financial aid options for tuition and housing costs. Undocumented and DACA students may also be eligible for certain funding opportunities.
4. Northeastern Illinois University
Northeastern Illinois University traces its roots to 1867 and is one of the older public universities in Illinois. Today, the institution offers modern academic facilities and a broad range of programs.
Northeastern Illinois University offers programs across fields such as education, business, arts and sciences, and social sciences. NEIU can also be a strong option for students interested in teaching careers, as the university traces its roots to teacher training and continues to prepare teachers and administrators.
5. Roosevelt University
- Admissions | In-State Tuition | Out-State Tuition | Int’l Tuition
- Tuition Fees: from $24,197/year for undergraduate tuition in the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences; about $23,100/year for undergraduate international students, based on Roosevelt’s international admissions estimate
One of Roosevelt University’s founding principles, established in 1945, was social justice and inclusivity. The university has a diverse student community and is a welcoming environment for international students. Roosevelt University’s colleges include the Chicago College of Performing Arts, the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences, the College of Science, Health and Pharmacy, and the Heller College of Business.
It is important to budget carefully before enrolling. Roosevelt lists limited undergraduate scholarships for international students, but international students should still be prepared to cover tuition, living expenses, insurance, books, supplies, and personal expenses.
6. East-West University
East-West University in Chicago, established in 1980, is a private institution known for its affordable tuition and multicultural mission. The university offers programs in areas such as business, computer and information science, electronics engineering technology, mathematics, and the liberal arts. Despite being a newer institution, the university provides student facilities such as a Student Life Center with an auditorium, gym, and student housing. The Phantoms, its basketball team, and other sports teams participate in intercollegiate athletics.
East-West University provides international students with an institutional scholarship of up to 30% of tuition. Many students may also qualify for other forms of aid, although eligibility depends on the student’s status and the specific aid program.
7. Columbia College Chicago
Established in 1890, Columbia College Chicago was initially the Columbia School of Oratory, focused on elocution, public speaking, and physical culture. Today, the college offers creative, media, communication, business, and liberal arts programs, with performing arts remaining one of its strengths.
The college prides itself on a diverse student body, with students from more than 60 countries studying there. As an international student, Columbia College Chicago can be a great place to find inclusivity and feel welcomed.
FAQs: Studying at a University in Chicago
What Are the General Requirements to Study in Chicago?
Once you have selected a university, there are a few requirements you need to fulfill as an international student. One of the most critical aspects of studying abroad is sorting out finances. Even when applying to a relatively affordable university listed above, you may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds to support your education in the country.
In addition, international students generally must meet academic requirements, provide proof of English language proficiency when required, and may need to submit a letter of recommendation, a statement of purpose, transcripts, or portfolio materials depending on the university and program. Once accepted, students who need F-1 status typically receive a Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved school, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, and apply for a student visa.
Are International Students Eligible for Financial Aid and Grants in Chicago?
Living in a developed country like the United States can be financially demanding, even when many expenses are minimized. International students can use scholarships, grants, institutional awards, external scholarships, and, in some cases, on-campus employment to reduce and manage many expenses incurred while living overseas.
Universities and their respective departments may offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students, such as the University of Chicago’s scholarships and the International Peace Scholarship Fund by the Philanthropic Educational Organization. International students can also use external scholarships, obtain private loans where available, or pursue permitted on-campus employment to support themselves financially.
What is the Cost of Living in Chicago?
The cost of living can vary significantly depending on an individual’s housing choice, lifestyle, and spending habits. Students should budget carefully for housing, food, transportation, books, health insurance, and personal expenses. For example, Columbia College Chicago’s undergraduate cost of attendance estimates room and board for students living away from parents at $11,942 per semester, plus estimated transportation and miscellaneous personal expenses.
Chicago public transportation can help reduce transportation costs. The Chicago Transit Authority currently lists a 30-day CTA/Pace pass at $75, with lower-cost 1-day, 3-day, and 7-day pass options also available. Including housing, food, insurance, transportation, and personal expenses, a realistic monthly budget can vary widely, so students should use their university’s official cost-of-attendance estimate and their own housing plans when preparing proof of funds.
Chicago remains a popular city for students because of its universities, cultural life, public transportation, and career opportunities. However, living expenses can be high compared with many other U.S. cities. Choosing universities that offer solid education without unusually high tuition fees is crucial for international students aiming to study in the U.S. affordably.
We hope this article helped you identify some of Chicago’s more affordable universities. To learn more about studying in the United States, feel free to visit our Study in the USA Page or check out the Available Programs for International Students!
