The University of Chicago (UChicago) is a research university founded in 1890. It is known for its longstanding commitment to free expression and rigorous inquiry, as well as the diversity of its campus community. As of 2024, 101 Nobel Prize recipients have been associated with the university.
The University of Chicago is known for research and teaching across a wide range of fields. It offers academic programs through its undergraduate College, four graduate divisions, seven professional schools, and the Graham School of Continuing Liberal and Professional Studies.
UChicago’s selective admissions process can make admission challenging. This guide explains the university’s undergraduate and graduate admissions procedures, common requirements, and available financial aid resources. It also provides practical tips to help you prepare your application.
Admissions Process at the University of Chicago
UChicago admits students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. It also offers continuing education courses through the Graham School and summer programs through UChicago Summer Session. Undergraduate applicants apply to the College, while graduate application procedures vary by school, division, and department.
Prospective graduate students may apply to more than one program, but they must submit a separate application for each program. Requirements vary, so applicants should review the official instructions for their chosen program carefully.
Step 1. Create an Online Application
Undergraduate applicants submit the Coalition Application, Common Application, or QuestBridge Application, along with the UChicago Supplement. They can use a UChicago Account to track their application and submit additional information.
Graduate programs use online application systems, but the correct portal depends on the academic unit. Most graduate applications are coordinated through UChicagoGRAD. Applicants to the Law School use LSAC, applicants to the Pritzker School of Medicine use AMCAS, and Chicago Booth manages its own admissions platform. Candidates applying to multiple graduate programs must submit a separate application for each program.
To learn more, visit the university’s undergraduate application page or the graduate application page.
Step 2. Pay for the Application Fee or Apply for an Application Fee Waiver
Application fee rules depend on the type of application. For undergraduate applicants who are not applying for need-based financial aid, the application fee is $90. UChicago does not charge an undergraduate application fee to students applying for need-based financial aid, and some applicants may qualify for an automatic fee waiver.
Graduate application fees vary by program and are non-refundable. Most graduate programs offer some application fee waivers, but the criteria vary. Graduate applicants who plan to request a waiver should submit their application, complete the fee waiver request in the application status portal, and wait for a decision before paying the fee.
Step 3. Upload a Transcript of Records
Undergraduate applicants must submit a high school transcript and School Report. If any application documents are not in English, applicants must provide an official English translation in addition to the original document.
Graduate applicants must upload a transcript from every college or university they have attended for credit. Unofficial copies are acceptable during the application process, but official documents are generally required after admission if the student plans to enroll. Documents that are not in English must be submitted with certified English translations.
Step 4. Prepare for Standardized Test Exams
Testing requirements vary by applicant type and program. For undergraduate admission, submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional and not required. International undergraduate applicants may submit scores from an English proficiency examination if they believe the scores represent their English-language ability.
Graduate applicants should review the requirements for their chosen program because standardized testing policies vary. Applicants to most graduate schools and divisions must either qualify for an English proficiency waiver or submit TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic scores. Some schools and programs maintain separate policies, so applicants should check the official instructions for their program.
Step 5. Write a Personal Statement (SOP)
Undergraduate applicants must submit application essays, including the UChicago Supplement. Graduate applicants usually need to submit a personal statement, candidate statement, statement of purpose, or another written statement. The exact requirements vary by program, so review the instructions carefully.
For graduate applications, the statement typically explains your preparation for the field, relevant experience, academic interests, goals, and reasons for applying to the specific department or program. Some programs may also ask you to identify faculty members whose work interests you.
Step 6. Get Ready for an Interview
Traditional college interviews are not part of UChicago’s undergraduate application process. Undergraduate applicants may submit an optional two-minute video profile if they would like to add their voice to the application.
For graduate applicants, a program may require a video statement or interview. If so, the admissions committee will provide the relevant instructions. Applicants whose program requires an interview can also review general guidance on how to prepare for an interview.
Tips to Get Into the University of Chicago
The following tips can help you prepare a thoughtful application and present your background clearly.
Tip 1. Show Your Unique Talents and Interests
Use your application to explain your interests, experiences, skills, and accomplishments clearly and honestly. Choose specific examples that show what you would contribute to the university community, and avoid exaggerated claims.
Tip 2. Join Information Sessions and Subscribe to Mailing Lists
Use UChicago’s official admissions resources to learn about application requirements, deadlines, financial aid, and the university community.
Prospective undergraduate students can attend campus tours and information sessions, explore virtual events, and join the admissions mailing list. These resources can help you plan your application more effectively.
Tip 3. Listen to the University’s Podcasts
UChicago College Admissions publishes the Navigating College Admissions podcast, which walks listeners through steps in the college admissions process. Listening to admissions resources can help prospective students understand common application topics and prepare questions.
FAQs: Studying at the University of Chicago
What is the Acceptance Rate of the University of Chicago?
The University of Chicago is highly selective. For the Class of 2028, UChicago reported 43,612 applicants and 1,955 acceptances, an acceptance rate of about 4.5%. UChicago is test-optional, so SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. Read more in our guide to the University of Chicago acceptance rate and our overview of SAT exams.
Applying to the University of Chicago can be challenging, but careful preparation can help you submit a stronger application. First-year applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, while need-based aid has a separate application process. Review the official requirements for your applicant type and program before submitting your materials.
We hope our article about admission tips for the University of Chicago was helpful. Our Guide to Studying in the US and Available Programs for International Students sections include more information about scholarship opportunities and programs in the country.
