Did you know that the majority of international students in Chicago come from countries in Asia, particularly China, India, and South Korea?
Third largest city in the US, Chicago is a major economic hub, with a strong presence in industries such as finance, healthcare, and transportation. It is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, McDonald's, and United Airlines.
Chicago is a popular destination for international students who want to study abroad in the United States. According to recent data from the Institute of International Education, there were approximately 16,600 international students studying in the Chicago metropolitan area.
The city of Chicago itself also offers many cultural, social, and professional opportunities for international students, including internships, networking events, and cultural festivals. Additionally, the city has a large population of international residents and a strong global business community, which can be valuable resources for international students looking to build their professional networks and gain real-world experience. And if you would also like to get a taste of Chicago universities, you have landed at the right place! This blog will tell you all about the top universities in Chicago, their admission requirements, university rankings Chicago & a lot more!
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Top 10 Universities in Chicago
Known for their academic excellence, high ROI and great exposure; given below are the top 10 universities in Chicago for international students:
University |
QS World University Ranking 2023 |
Tuition Fees for International Students (in CAD) |
University of Chicago |
10 |
61,548 |
Northwestern University |
32 |
59,382 |
University of Illinois at Chicago |
317 |
34,188 |
Illinois Institute of Technology |
443 |
51,810 |
Loyola University Chicago |
801-1000 |
45,540 |
DePaul University |
- |
42,202 |
Roosevelt University |
- |
32,308 |
Chicago State University |
- |
18,000 |
Northeastern Illinois University |
- |
35,980 |
National Louis University |
- |
34,769 |
Let us know about each of these best universities in Chicago in detail:
University of Chicago
Located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, the University of Chicago is a private research university known for its rigorous academic programs and Nobel Prize-winning faculty. It has a large and diverse international student population, with students from over 100 countries. Popular courses at the university include economics, computer science, biology, mathematics, physics, political science, and public policy.
Northwestern University
Located just north of Chicago in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University is a private research university with a focus on interdisciplinary studies. It has a large and diverse international student population, with students from over 100 countries. Popular courses at the university include journalism, business, law, engineering, communication, and psychology.
DePaul University
DePaul University is a private, Catholic university located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. It has a diverse international student population, with students from over 100 countries. Popular courses at the university include business, law, education, computer science, psychology, and communication.
Loyola University Chicago
Loyola University Chicago is a private, Jesuit university located in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago. It has a diverse international student population, with students from over 70 countries. Popular courses at the university include health sciences, education, law, business, psychology, and social work.
Illinois Institute of Technology
The Illinois Institute of Technology is a private research university located in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago. It has a diverse international student population, with students from over 90 countries. Popular courses at the university include engineering, computer science, architecture, business, psychology, and biology.
University of Illinois at Chicago
The University of Illinois at Chicago is a public research university located in the Near West Side neighborhood of Chicago. It has a large and diverse international student population, with students from over 130 countries. Popular courses at the university include health sciences, business, engineering, education, and social sciences.
Chicago State University
Chicago State University is a public university located in the Roseland neighborhood of Chicago. It has a diverse student population, including a significant number of international students. Popular courses at the university include business, education, psychology, criminal justice, and nursing.
Columbia College Chicago
Columbia College Chicago is a private college located in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago. It has a diverse student population, including a significant number of international students. Popular courses at the college include film and video, journalism, graphic design, theatre, and music.
Roosevelt University
Roosevelt University is a private university located in the Loop neighborhood of Chicago. It has a diverse student population, including a significant number of international students. Popular courses at the university include business, social sciences, performing arts, education, and health sciences.
National Louis University
National Louis University is a private university located in the Chicago Loop. It has a diverse student population, including a significant number of international students. Popular courses at the university include education, business, social sciences, and health sciences.
Chicago Universities with Highest Acceptance Rates
Given below is a table of Chicago universities with highest acceptance rates:
University Name |
Acceptance Rate |
Chicago State University |
41.8% |
Northeastern Illinois University |
58.1% |
Governors State University |
64.2% |
National Louis University |
64.8% |
Roosevelt University |
67.2% |
DePaul University |
70% |
University of Illinois at Chicago |
76.8% |
Saint Xavier University |
78.3% |
Dominican University |
81.9% |
Concordia University Chicago |
86.1% |
Popular Programs Offered at Chicago Universities
Let us now take you through some of the most popular programs among the international student population in Chicago:
Program |
Average Tuition Fees |
Universities |
Business and Economics |
$40,000 - $65,000 |
University of Chicago, Northwestern University, University of Illinois at Chicago |
Engineering |
$50,000 - $60,000 |
Illinois Institute of Technology, Northwestern University |
Law |
$55,000 - $70,000 |
University of Chicago, Northwestern University |
Medicine and Healthcare |
$40,000 - $65,000 |
Northwestern University, University of Chicago, Rush University |
Education |
$30,000 - $40,000 |
Loyola University Chicago, DePaul University |
Computer Science and Information Technology |
$35,000 - $55,000 |
University of Chicago, Illinois Institute of Technology, Northwestern University |
Social Sciences |
$40,000 - $65,000 |
University of Chicago, Northwestern University |
Fine Arts |
$40,000 - $50,000 |
School of the Art Institute of Chicago |
Public Policy and Administration |
$40,000 - $60,000 |
University of Chicago, Northwestern University |
Admission Requirements at Universities in Chicago
Admission requirements at universities in Chicago can vary depending on the specific university and program of study. However, here are some general admission requirements that are common among many universities in Chicago:
- Application: Most universities require an online application that includes personal information, academic history, test scores, and essays.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from high school or any colleges previously attended are typically required.
- Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are often required for undergraduate admission, while GRE, GMAT, or LSAT scores may be required for graduate programs.
- English Language Proficiency: International students may need to provide proof of English language proficiency by taking the TOEFL or IELTS.
- Letters of Recommendation: Most universities require at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or professional.
- Personal Statement: Many universities require a personal statement or essay that highlights the applicant's background, achievements, and future goals.
- Application Fee: There is usually a non-refundable application fee that ranges from $50 to $100.
Application Process to Study in Chicago
The application process to study in Chicago will vary depending on the university and program you are interested in. However, here are some general steps that you can expect to follow:
- Research Programs: Begin by researching the universities and programs in Chicago that align with your academic and career goals.
- Check Admission Requirements: Check the admission requirements for the programs you are interested in, including application deadlines, required documents, and test scores.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather all required documents such as transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and application fee.
- Submit Online Application: Complete the online application for the universities you are interested in. Most universities will have an online portal where you can submit your application and required documents.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the application fee for each university you are applying to.
- Wait for Decision: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the university to make a decision. Some universities will have rolling admissions, while others will have a set deadline for all applicants.
- Accept Admission Offer: If you receive an admission offer, you will need to accept the offer and follow any additional steps required by the university, such as paying a deposit or submitting additional documents.
- Apply for Visa: If you are an international student, you will need to apply for a student visa in order to study in Chicago.
Scholarships Offered at Chicago Universities
When studying in Chicago, there are several options for financial aid and scholarships that can help you pay for your education. Given below are some scholarships offered by Chicago top colleges:
Scholarship |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount Offered |
University Offering Scholarship |
University of Chicago Merit Scholarships |
Outstanding academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and community service |
Varies depending on the award |
University of Chicago |
Northwestern University Scholarship |
Outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement |
Varies depending on the award |
Northwestern University |
Loyola University Chicago Scholarship |
Academic achievement and financial need |
Varies depending on the award |
Loyola University Chicago |
DePaul University Scholarship |
Academic achievement and financial need |
Varies depending on the award |
DePaul University |
Illinois Institute of Technology Scholarship |
Academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement |
Varies depending on the award |
Illinois Institute of Technology |
University of Illinois at Chicago Scholarship |
Academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement |
Varies depending on the award |
University of Illinois at Chicago |
Rush University Scholarship |
Academic achievement, community service, and financial need |
Varies depending on the award |
Rush University |
School of the Art Institute of Chicago Scholarship |
Academic achievement and financial need |
Varies depending on the award |
School of the Art Institute of Chicago |
Chicago State University Scholarship |
Academic achievement and financial need |
Varies depending on the award |
Chicago State University |
National Louis University Scholarship |
Academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement |
Varies depending on the award |
National Louis University |
Student Life at Top Universities in Chicago
When studying in Chicago, you can expect a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history and culture. Each university in Chicago offers its own unique campus culture and student life experience, but some common aspects of student life in Chicago include:
- City life: Chicago is a bustling city with plenty of opportunities for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences. Students can explore the city's museums, theaters, music venues, and sports arenas, and take advantage of the city's public transportation system to easily travel around the city.
- Diversity: Chicago is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, with a rich mix of cultures and communities. Students can expect to encounter a wide range of perspectives and experiences on campus and in the city.
- Campus life: Each university in Chicago has its own campus culture and community. Students can expect to find a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities to get involved in, as well as opportunities for leadership and service.
- Academic rigor: Chicago universities are known for their academic rigor and intellectual culture. Students can expect to be challenged academically and to have opportunities for research and intellectual exploration.
- Weather: Chicago experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. Students should be prepared for a range of weather conditions and plan accordingly.
In conclusion, universities in Chicago offer a rich and diverse academic experience, with top-ranked institutions that are known for their academic rigor and intellectual culture. Students studying in Chicago can expect to be challenged academically and have access to a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities, as well as a vibrant and diverse campus community. Additionally, the city of Chicago offers a dynamic and exciting urban experience, with ample opportunities for entertainment, cultural experiences, and career development. So whether you are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees, Chicago universities offer a world-class education and a valuable experience that can prepare you for success in your future endeavors.
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