university of chicago sat essay requirements

The University of Chicago: Acceptance Rate and Admissions Statistics

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The University of Chicago is a private research university with an acceptance rate of 6.2%. Located in Hyde Park seven miles from downtown Chicago, UChicago is one of the top-ranking and most selective universities in the U.S. The university has a chapter of  Phi Beta Kappa  and is a member of the Association of American Universities. First-year students at The University of Chicago reside in one of 38 "houses" which serve as the center of student life. Academics are backed up by an impressive 5-to-1 student/faculty ratio . On the athletic front, The University of Chicago Maroons compete in the NCAA Division III, within the University Athletic Association (UAA). Popular sports include football, soccer, swimming, tennis, and track and field.

To apply, students can use the  Common Application , or the Coalition Application . UChicago has two Early Decision plans and one Early Action plan that can improve admission chances for students who are sure the university is their top choice school. Considering applying to this highly selective school? Here are the UChicago admissions statistics you should know.

Acceptance Rate

During the 2018-19 admissions cycle, The University of Chicago had an acceptance rate of 6.2%. This means that for every 100 students who applied, 6 students were admitted, making UChicago's admissions process highly competitive.

SAT Scores and Requirements

The University of Chicago has a test-optional standardized testing policy. Applicants to UChicago may submit SAT or ACT scores to the school, but they are not required. During the 2017-18 admissions cycle, 53% of admitted students submitted SAT scores.

This admissions data tells us that of those students who submitted scores, most of UChicago's admitted students fall within the top 7% nationally on the SAT. For the evidence-based reading and writing section, the middle 50% of students admitted to UChicago scored between 720 and 770, while 25% scored below 720 and 25% scored above 770. On the math section, 50% of admitted students scored between 750 and 800, 25% scored below 750, and 25% scored a perfect 800. While the SAT is not required, this data tells us that a composite SAT score of 1560 or higher is competitive for The University of Chicago.

Requirements

UChicago does not require SAT scores for admission. For students who choose to submit scores, note that The University of Chicago participates in the scorechoice program, meaning that the admissions office will consider your highest score from each individual section across all SAT test dates. UChicago does not require the optional essay portion of the SAT.

ACT Scores and Requirements

The University of Chicago has a test-optional standardized testing policy. Applicants to UChicago may submit SAT or ACT scores to the school, but they are not required. During the 2017-18 admissions cycle, 58% of admitted students submitted ACT scores.

This admissions data tells us that of those students who submitted scores, most of UChicago's admitted students fall within the top 2% nationally on the ACT. The middle 50% of students admitted to UChicago received a composite ACT score between 33 and 35, while 25% scored above 35 and 25% scored below 33.

The University of Chicago does not require ACT scores for admission. For students who choose to submit scores, note that The University of Chicago participates in the scorechoice program, meaning that the admissions office will consider your highest score from each individual section across all ACT test dates. UChicago does not require the optional writing portion of the ACT.

The University of Chicago does not provide data about admitted students' high school GPAs.

Self-Reported GPA/SAT/ACT Graph

The admissions data in the graph is self-reported by applicants to The University of Chicago. GPAs are unweighted. Find out how you compare to accepted students, see the real-time graph, and calculate your chances of getting in with a free Cappex account.

Admissions Chances

The University of Chicago has a highly competitive admissions pool with a low acceptance rate and high average SAT/ACT scores. However, UChicago is also test-optional and the university has a holistic admissions process involving other factors beyond your grades and test scores. Strong application essays and glowing letters of recommendation can strengthen your application, as can participation in meaningful extracurricular activities and a rigorous course schedule . Students with particularly compelling stories or achievements can still receive serious consideration even if their test scores are outside UChicago's average range.

In the graph above, the blue and green dots represent accepted students. As you can see, students who are admitted to UChicago tend to have an A- or higher GPA, SAT scores of 1250 or higher (ERW+M), and an ACT composite score of 25 or higher. Note that UChicago is test-optional, so grades and other elements of the application are more important than test scores in the admissions process.

All admissions data has been sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics and The University of Chicago Undergraduate Admissions Office .

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How to Write the University of Chicago Essays 2020-2021

We’ve updated this post! Read the 2021-2022 UChicago essay guide .

UChicago is a rigorous, top-tier school located in beautiful Hyde Park, Chicago. It’s famed for its research emphasis, neo-gothic architecture, and school of economics. If you’re interested in delving deep into theory, bookishness, and the most hardcore of academic materials, UChicago may be your place. Forbes ranks its Booth Business College #1 in the nation, and US News and World Report ranks UChicago as a whole at #6. In 2020, its acceptance rate was 7.94%, so steel yourself for the essay writing. It’s gotta be your best. 

You can complete your UChicago application through the Coalition App, Common App, and UChicago portals. Their essay questions for this season are on their website , as well as listed below. The first question, which boils down to “Why UChicago?,” is required. The second question, a one-to-two page essay, is also required, but applicants can choose from a menagerie of wild and exotic prompts. 

Want to know your chances at UChicago? Calculate your chances for free right now.

Want to learn what University of Chicago will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take? Here’s what every student considering University of Chicago needs to know.

Before You Begin Writing

The University of Chicago’s prompts are famous – infamous! – for being quirky, creative, and sometimes downright weird. But don’t fret: this only means that you get to unleash your creativity and geek out about your deepest passions. You know that subject you avoid in casual conversation, because it turns you into a gushing ball of enthusiasm that could talk for hours ? UChicago wants to hear about it. Whether it’s the 70s rock scene in Zambia, Edmund Burke’s philosophy of the sublime, or your job at the antique mall, they have happily passed you the mic. 

It’s not a free-for-all, however. Keep this checklist of things in mind when writing your UChicago essays: 

Unconventional topics often require unconventional styles. 

UChicago essays should definitely be viewed as a piece of creative writing, rather than a dry analysis. Without being too informal, feel free to disrupt the familiar rhythms of essay prose. This can mean rich imagery and addressing the reader directly. Sentence fragments. CAPS, even. Throw in jargon from your field, and phrases from another language, as long as you explain them. To the extent that it’s authentic to your voice and your subject matter, you should try to be imaginative, engaging, and colorful. 

Communicate who you are as an academic.

Make sure you provide admissions with a portrait of how you will perform in an academic environment. You can’t just gush about a topic – you have to prove that you can engage with it at a high intellectual level. Explain research protocol, cite specific books you’ve read, mention your AP classes, or give examples of how you’ve collaborated with others to produce results. UChicago admissions don’t want a student who says “I love physics”; they want a student who says “I love physics so much that I stayed up until 4 am reading Cosmos by Carl Sagan, and I use meatballs to diagram the moons of Jupiter to my friends, and I took Calc III because I plan on studying mechanical engineering with a focus on aerospace materials.” Be detailed about your studies; be explicit in your interests. 

Marry yourself to your topic.

Dearly beloved, you can’t have a “unique” topic without “u.” Be sure to include the first person; you are the main character here, not whatever subject you’re writing about. UChicago is deciding to admit you – not your botany experiment, not your gymnastics record, not your novel – you. How do these objects illuminate facets of your personality? What can you bring to this topic that no one else can? 

And, as always, answer the prompt!

Print out the prompt. Circle key words. Hang it over your desk. Read it. Read it again. Mark out places in your essay where you will address each specific element of the question. Do everything to track down all the sneaky requirements hidden in the prompt forest, hit them between the ears, and mount them on the cabin wall that is your essay. 

All the UChicago Essay Prompts

Prompt 1 (required).

How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago. 

Prompt 2: Extended Essay (Required; Choose one)

Choose one of the seven extended essay options and upload a one- or two-page response. please include the prompt at the top of the page..

Essay Option 1

Who does Sally sell her seashells to? How much wood can a woodchuck really chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? Pick a favorite tongue twister (either originally in English or translated from another language) and consider a resolution to its conundrum using the method of your choice. Math, philosophy, linguistics… it’s all up to you (or your woodchuck).

—inspired by blessing nnate, class of 2024.

Essay Option 2

What can actually be divided by zero?

—inspired by mai vu, class of 2024.

Essay Option 3

The seven liberal arts in antiquity consisted of the Quadrivium — astronomy, mathematics, geometry, and music — and the Trivium — rhetoric, grammar, and logic. Describe your own take on the Quadrivium or the Trivium. What do you think is essential for everyone to know?

—inspired by peter wang, class of 2022.

Essay Option 4

Subway maps, evolutionary trees, Lewis diagrams. Each of these schematics tells the relationships and stories of their component parts. Reimagine a map, diagram, or chart. If your work is largely or exclusively visual, please include a cartographer’s key of at least 300 words to help us best understand your creation.

—inspired by maximilian site, class of 2020.

Essay Option 5

“Do you feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?” – Eleanor Roosevelt. Misattribute a famous quote and explore the implications of doing so.

—inspired by chris davey, ab’13.

Essay Option 6

Engineer George de Mestral got frustrated with burrs stuck to his dog’s fur and applied the same mechanic to create Velcro. Scientist Percy Lebaron Spencer found a melted chocolate bar in his magnetron lab and discovered microwave cooking. Dye-works owner Jean Baptiste Jolly found his tablecloth clean after a kerosene lamp was knocked over on it, consequently shaping the future of dry cleaning. Describe a creative or interesting solution, and then find the problem that it solves.

—inspired by steve berkowitz, ab’19, and neeharika venuturupalli, class of 2024.

Essay Option 7

In the spirit of adventurous inquiry (and with the encouragement of one of our current students!) choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun!

How does the university of chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to uchicago..

The pressure’s on to be unique here, since EVERY SINGLE APPLICANT to UChicago will be answering this required question. Here’s what you need to do:

Provide a tangible connection to UChicago. 

This is composed of specific elements of the university that appeal to you, and UChicago’s website is a great place to delve into these. Be sure to be “particular,” as they stipulate, and give them the “specificity” they’re asking for. Examples include research opportunities at Argonne Labs, the marketing classes in the Business School, or an internship offered through the Creative Writing program. 

Don’t write about UChicago’s general attributes, like fame, prestige, or “intellectual rigor.” And please don’t try to be clever and refute the old canard that UChicago is the place “Where Fun Goes to Die.” Applications readers have seen this hundreds, if not thousands of times. And besides, why talk about a tired UChicago stereotype when you can talk about something actually cool? 

Describe your intangible connection as well. 

How is UChicago a place that aligns with your values, dreams, and goals? How do you vibe with it? For example, if I wanted to write about the Creative Writing internship, I would state explicitly how it draws me in: 

“I want to attend a college that values the innovative nature of indie comics publishing as much as I do. So, I’m impressed by UChicago’s commitment to providing internships in comics writing through Bult Publishing and The Artifice magazine. One of my goals as a writer is to gain firsthand experience in comics publishing, specifically small houses, and the Creative Writing program at UChicago hits the mark, resoundingly.”

Engage with faculty and students, if possible. 

This is a perfect place to talk about specific interactions, like sitting in on an inspiring seminar during a campus visit, hearing a professor speak, or seeing how UChicago has prepared a friend for his career. 

However, always be sure to tie these experiences into your own goals and interests! For example, don’t just name-drop a certain Professor Smith. Instead, take the opportunity to find a personal connection to Smith’s research and how great UChicago is for supporting people like her. Your format should be

        Program/Individual/Major 🡪 UChicago’s Values 🡪 My values

If you want to learn more about a specific professor or their subject, don’t be afraid to politely email them or contact their department. Many love to talk about their work and their interests, or would love to put you in touch with current students. This will better inform you about the school and give you a great edge for this prompt. And, more importantly, you’ll probably get great advice for your higher education journey. Note: the earlier you prepare for this, the better!

It’s worth noting that there is no recommended essay length, but sticking to around 500 words should do the trick. It’s long enough to share the reasons you’ll thrive at UChicago, but not too long that the admissions officers will start to get bored.

Prompt 2: Extended Essay (Required, Choose one)

Option 1: tongue twister.

Like we said, this is bizarre. And it seems like a lot when you read it all at once. So be sure to break it down into some key components.

“Pick a tongue twister.” It’s useful, but not essential, to consider tongue twisters that have elements of your biography in them. For example, you might not know any woodchucks, but caring for a beaver as it built a dam at a local forest preserve definitely counts for something. Also note that “translated from another language” offers an interesting opportunity – it’s a good place to discuss your knowledge of a second language or unique cultural experience. 

However, note that while personal relevance is an interesting element, what’s ultimately important is the method and analysis below. A tongue-twister you’ve never used, but that allows you to show off your skills, is always better than a tongue-twister you grew up with, but has nothing to do with your studies. 

“ Consider a resolution to its conundrum.” Identify some sort of conundrum within the tongue twister. This can be a world-building issue – like the “To whom does Sally sell the seashells?” above. It can also be a lurking instability or menace within the rhyme. Or it can be an examination of a historic element that’s worked its way into the tongue twister. 

“…Using the method of your choice.” For this, you should pick the subject you know best and want to pursue in college . This is absolutely essential. For example, I could use my knowledge of French history to talk about the French tongue-twister “Les chaussettes de l’archiduchesse,” a rhyme about the dryness of an archduchess’ socks. By imagining it as a conversation between two maids in the ancien regime , I can show off my impressive knowledge of French court life and how working women were able to sharpen their wits even without an upper-class education. So a good strategy might be to pick your expertise – science, child psychology, business, linguistics – then pick a tongue-twister that you can really bust open. 

Find a greater meaning. Tongue-twisters are often trivial, and an essay about them risks falling into triviality as well. You can avoid this hidden trap by finding a “so what?” to your analysis. What lesson can we learn from your approach? Why has this tongue-twister been repeated for decades, or centuries? Have you discovered something unsettling, even disturbing, about a rhyme recited by children? You can include this greater meaning at the beginning, conclusion, or throughout.

Option 2: Dividing by Zero

Weird, weird, weird. This prompt is cryptic in its brevity, which offers a huge challenge to you as a writer. UChicago is giving you all the space for creativity. But here’s the trade-off: in return for this freedom, they want to see you discipline yourself, organize your thoughts, and pull this essay off like a choreographed dance. Get your exploratory brainstorming out of the way early-on, and stay focused. Be your reader’s tour guide; don’t get lost yourself. 

The obvious option: mathematics. If high-concept math is your thing, and you can explain it compellingly, feel free to discuss the actual question of dividing by zero. It’s a great place to talk about mathematical theories you’ve read, mathematicians you admire, or debates you’ve had in class. But be concrete. Your readers are probably not mathematics experts, so take a page from Carl Sagan: use figurative language, real-world objects, and simple language to illustrate your intimate understanding of the concepts. 

Treat it like a metaphor. Deconstruct the prompt and ask yourself, “What do we mean by division? And what do we mean by zero?” Can you think of situations in history, literature, drama, or psychology in which divisions between people are caused by zeroes – insignificant, or unknown, factors? For example, an actor might talk about the play Othello, in which the villainous Iago skillfully divides the characters by creating illusive, nonexistent problems. 

Consider different viewpoints and angles. In our everyday language, we take it for granted that division by 0 is impossible. But if you’re interested in philosophy, religion, or anthropology, this might be a great prompt to discuss what you know about “nothing/zero” and how different people have understood it. Is there a cultural and religious explanation for why medieval Indian mathematicians asserted that division by zero was possible? How did the ancient Mayans conceive of zero? And wait a second – if Christians believe everything in the universe is infinitely small compared to God, to the point of approaching zero, how was Satan able to create a divisive war throughout Creation? 

Suddenly, the question isn’t quite so simple, is it? This is a great prompt with which to discuss how our debates are enriched by listening to alternative perspectives and reconsidering the seemingly “obvious.” Show off your powers of critical thinking, and demonstrate that you can bring out the intellectual big guns. 

Remember: don’t lose focus on yourself and your personality. This is a daunting, abstract, almost cosmic question. No matter which approach you take, make sure to communicate your interest in the subject, your willingness to do research, and your unique voice. Remind your reader: “This is a cool person we don’t want to miss out on.” 

Option 3: Quadrivium and Trivium

Brainstorm a list, and give yourself time to think. Sleep on this prompt, because some topics might occur to you as you’re out living your life. This Trivium thing seems a bit boilerplate when you sit down to write about it like your typical essay. Math? Check. Reading? Check. But there may soon come a day when you think, Screw it. Everyone on earth should know how to weld a light-up Santa to the hood of their car. And guess which essay is going to grab UChicago’s attention?  

Education/anthropology students, this is your time! A society’s values are often reflected in its educational priorities. This is a great prompt for you to identify issues with modern education and offer solutions. Have you read any studies about programs that benefit low-performing students? Have you volunteered with any programs that taught life-changing skills to people? Discuss them here.  

Lean into the appeal of the numeric/list format. UChicago has historically liked prompts that focus on lists or number groups. So if this attracts you, go for it. You can defend a group of values that’s different from the Trivium/Quadrivium – such as the five virtues of Confucianism, or a Quintivium or Sextivium of your own invention. Be creative – combine the stoic principles of Marcus Aurelius with the New Rules of Dua Lipa. Just make sure you balance out personal whimsy with intellect, knowledge, and prowess. (I.e. give more space to Marcus Aurelius and Roman virtues than “New Rules.”) 

Consider an unconventional narrative style that weaves together a Trivium in practice. In the movie Slumdog Millionaire, we learn about the protagonist, Jamal, through flashbacks. As he’s asked random questions on a quiz show, we get to see the childhood experiences that enabled him to answer them. Can you think of a challenge that allowed you to synthesize three or four key skills? Start at that climactic challenge, and flash back to the preparation that you’ve done. Example: it’s your senior musical, and you’re on the verge of a panic attack onstage. But you use tips from psychology class, a lifetime of singing lessons, and the perseverance you learned from your family to pull through. This allows you to 1) show off your own biography, 2) show yourself overcoming a challenge, and 3) demonstrate you’re multi-dimensional.

Your GPA and SAT don’t tell the full admissions story

Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographics, and other holistic details. We’ll let you know what your chances are at your dream schools — and how to improve your chances!

Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographic, and other holistic details.

Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographic, and other holistic details. We’ll let you know what your chances are at your dream schools — and how to improve your chances!

Option 4: Diagram, Map, Chart

This is another prompt that you need to break down into its key elements, because it’s a behemoth. Its visual component means that it can make a huge impression if done right, but it also demands a huge amount of work, so you want to make sure you’re expending your time in the right way. Needless to say, if you have artistic, drafting, or programming abilities, this would be a great place to showcase your skills. 

“Each of these schematics tells the relationship and stories of their component parts .” The key words here are “relationships” and “stories.” This means that your audience won’t just be looking for correlation, causation, directions, and lines of descent – they’re looking for a narrative and personal element. If you’re dealing with data, make sure to personalize it, either through pictures or through your written description. 

“Reimagine .” You have to fundamentally transform your diagram or data set in some way. Make us see something that wasn’t there before. There are plenty of real-world examples to draw inspiration from: for example, geophysicists in Mexico have used the present-day locations of caves and cenotes to analyze the impact of the Chicxulub object, the asteroid that most likely caused the dinosaurs’ extinction. Malcolm Gladwell is a great example of a writer who takes sets of data and interprets them in new ways, revealing unseen forces at work. What’s your data? And what’s the asteroid or secret history hidden behind it?

“Your creation .” This has to be your brainchild. While you can draw inspiration from existing discoveries or use existing stats, you should try your best to come up with your own final product. 

Combine unexpected fields ; think big, and think broad! There’s a lot of interesting new ideas to discover if you blend two fields that don’t typically go together. If you’re interested in both programming and literature, you could use statistical methods to compare authors’ word use and diagram it accordingly. Does Milton use the word “green” more than Shakespeare? WHY? 

Tie it back to your research values . Remember that UChicago asked this prompt because they want to get a pulse on your research philosophy. It’s worth including an explanation not only of your research, but your mindset in general, and the values you believe lead to productive research. Show yourself as someone who would thrive in an exploratory, research setting.

Option 5: Misattributed Quote

So this one seems pretty simple: they’re asking you to come up with a two-ingredient recipe. The hard part? Picking two ingredients that go together stunningly. 

Be wary of formulae. The example UChicago gives would be great for an aspiring historian interested in discussing Eleanor Roosevelt. But don’t think that you have to misattribute a quote to a historical figure only. Food for thought:

• Write about a person you know. For example, a member of your family who had a positive impact on your life. Could a fundamental lesson they taught you be paraphrased by a quote from Charles Dickens or N.K. Jemisin? 
• Discuss a real-life misattribution. There are plenty of famous ones: Marie Antoinette didn’t really say “Let them eat cake,” but the misattribution can tell us a lot about the French gossip magazines of the time. It’s also a fraught moral question: was the libel against Marie Antoinette worth it, because it led to the downfall of the French monarchy? Do the ends justify the means here? What’s the philosophy of misattribution? The psychology? The social implications?
• Combine media. Plenty of songwriters quote other songs, intentionally or (as was ruled in a famous copyright case ) “subconsciously.” Is there an example that reveals a lot about an artist or media culture that interests you? 
• Misattribute a quote to a non-person . What if your dog, your houseplant, or your favorite skeleton at a museum could talk? This is a great chance to talk about animal psychology, how plants communicate, or an exhibit that inspired an academic interest. 
• The list goes on! 

The key word is “implications.” The misattribution has to reveal something about the quote or the entity to which it’s misattributed. A person writing about Eleanor Roosevelt using the Dirty Harry quote might discuss, for instance, how “Do you feel lucky, punk?” could summarize Roosevelt’s tenacity when lobbying her husband to enact anti-lynching legislation.

You can also discuss “implications” in broader terms: for example, should education use punchy (incorrect) quotes to better help kids memorize historical figures? Should fictionalizations like Hamilton stray too far from the historical texts? Do embellishments and hot new phrases mislead the public perception of historical figures? 

As always, be sure to bring it back to who you are as a student and thinker. What are your priorities, and what concerns you about your quote/source duo? Involve yourself and your audience in the “implications” section of your essay. 

Option 6: Creative Solutions

Although this prompt includes examples of technological inventions, what’s really important here is the last sentence. If you put aside the first few sentences, the prompt becomes incredibly vast, and you can use it to write about almost any field you’re interested in. 

Did you notice the subtle weirdness? “Describe a… solution, and then find the problem.” Isn’t that… backwards? You can interpret this as a license to get weird with your style and organization. For example, you could take your reader backwards in time, from the final invention to the inciting incident, or even a childhood memory of your inventor. You could alternate between the past in present. You can also find a solution that fixes an unexpected problem: for example, drugs developed for a certain malady sometimes improve conditions for the sufferers of different diseases.

Do some digging; find the quirks and paradoxes. Often, some mundane items we find commonplace have interesting, controversial, or even bloody histories behind them. And sometimes problems have paradoxical solutions – like how patients with phobias are instructed to expose themselves increasingly to their phobias. One strategy for creating a compelling essay is to amplify these striking contradictions or lurid histories. 

The invention need not be physical. While we love our can openers and phones, there are a lot of inventions that aren’t things – they’re methods, systems, words, theories, names, university departments, religious doctrines, governments, languages, or ways of thinking. You can apply this “problem/solution” dynamic to almost any subject, but what’s important is that it’s thought-provoking, unique, and authentic to you. And you absolutely must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the invention’s development. 

The invention need not be positive. UChicago describes beneficial inventions, but you can also talk about inventions and protocols that ended up inflicting evil on the world. For example, you could talk about a policy, law, cultural norm, etc. that “solves” a problem that really doesn’t need solving, or “solves” the problems of some very bad people. If you want to be really deep, you could discuss invented problems that are – paradoxically – solutions of some kind, that serve dark ends or that reinforce harmful ideas. However, be sure to end your essay with a gesture towards solutions, progress, and identifying bad systems of thought so that the world can be improved.  

Cite sources! This is a research-based question, so make sure you credit the books, podcasts, movies, and articles you use. Demonstrate your aptitude as a scholar, and show your ability to synthesize a variety of sources. Don’t go overboard, and don’t let the citations drown out your own voice, but this is UChicago. Bring a bibliography to the gunfight. 

Ending the essay. If your solution can solve a single problem, that’s fine. But a great way to end the essay, and show that you can think about broad applications as well as specific circumstances, is to gesture towards other potential problems your invention solves/is still solving. Is there a certain attribute that allows it to be applied towards multiple situations? It’s also worthwhile to talk about the mindsets, values, and societal environments that allow us humans to create worthwhile solutions to our problems. If you’re moved, changed, or inspired by the invention you’re researching, discuss this. If there’s a certain philosophy or perspective instrumental in the creation of the invention, and it would benefit our world from being used more widely, discuss this too.

Option 7: Grab Bag

Again, this prompt is, on the surface, granting you a lot of leeway. UChicago even ends it with an exclamation point! But you should always remember: they expect a disciplined, thorough, rigorous essay. Don’t let your sense of fun and frolic drown out your serious intellectual ideas.

Pick a prompt that inspires you to write, and connects with your academic interests. If a prompt jumps out at you, and you’re immediately filled with ideas, it’s probably a good fit. Just take it slowly, jot your thoughts down, and get to work. 

Involve your personal connection to that prompt . If you’re not answering any of the 6 prompts UChicago has issued this year, the onus is on you to prove that you and the archival prompt you’ve picked are a match made in heaven. This means having a lot of knowledge and personal investment in your subject matter, and an angle/perspective totally unique to you. 

If making your own question , remember this: YOUR QUESTION IS YOUR HOOK. So make sure it’s not a question that could be found on a standard-issue application, like “When did I overcome a challenge?” or “What’s a place that feels like home?” These prompts are everywhere. They won’t get the job done, and they won’t make an unforgettable first impression. But “Why did I lock myself in the basement and watch The Bee Movie for eighteen hours?” That’s a different story. 

If you look at past UChicago prompts, they tend to be fond of certain things: numbered lists, fairy tales, common phrases, and items of pop culture that can be re-contextualized. They also like hearing your answers to famous questions, and you might have a unique answer to “Et tu, Brute?” or “Do you like pina coladas and getting caught in the rain?” Just remember that the novelty of the question, while the hook of your essay, is not its substance. If your biography and scholarly interests don’t involve pina coladas, or rain, you might just have to pick a different question to answer – as wonderful as that eternal question is. 

You have to do a lot of thinking for the UChicago essay – but don’t overthink it. There’s a reason why they give you a page limit, and not a word limit: they don’t want you to stress about cutting ten words, and they don’t want you to have to cut yourself off. Fully develop your ideas in a way that seems natural. If a paragraph needs to be a little thicker, or if you need to include a longer quote from your favorite author, don’t sweat it. 

You can look up lots of examples of essays online, but try not to get intimidated. It’s the nature of the UChicago essays to encourage everyone to showcase their expertise, so you’ll read a lot of essays and think, “Wow. I’ve never spent a month in Arizona digging up fossils. How can I ever compete?” Instead, try to think of the essays less as a Competition than as a Giant Celebration of everyone’s achievements and interests. It’s cliché but it’s true: everyone has something compelling about them, and the UChicago applications readers wouldn’t be giving out prompts like these if they didn’t believe it. 

If you’ve written your UChicago essay and are looking for feedback, we encourage you to create a free CollegeVine account and explore our resources. You’ll have access to free peer review services, through which students can peer review each others’ essays. We also offer free essay guides and other resources. We’re here to help you put your best foot forward, feel prepared, and deal with less stress this applications season.  Feel lucky, punk! 

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How To Get Into The University Of Chicago | Requirements

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 3/12/24

Interested in the University of Chicago? This guide tells you everything you need to know about getting into UChicago. 

As you get ready to start applying to universities, you may have considered attending the University of Chicago , which was established in 1890. Located in the bustling city of Chicago, the school is consistently high-ranking and has a reputation for excellence. This guide will outline everything you need to know about getting into the University of Chicago. 

Read on for information on University of Chicago admission requirements, a breakdown of the application process, and some examples of UChicago essay prompts.

The University of Chicago Acceptance Rate: 4.77% 

UChicago’s recent acceptance rate is 4.77% , making it an extremely selective school. You’ll need to put together an exceptional application to have a good chance of getting in. 

Below is a table outlining UChicago’s acceptance rate for the past three years: 

How Hard Is It to Get Into the University of Chicago? 

With an acceptance rate of 4.77%, UChicago is extremely selective. It’s difficult to get into UChicago if you fall short of their academic standards. Aim for a 4.0 GPA and minimum SAT/ACT scores of 1510 and 33, respectively. 

The University of Chicago Admissions Statistics

For the best chance of getting into UChicago, it's beneficial to maintain a high GPA of at least 4.0. While UChicago is test-optional , submitting a test score and aiming for a high SAT and ACT score can enhance your application. 

To further strengthen your chances, consider taking challenging AP or IB courses and crafting compelling essays that showcase your passion for learning. UChicago's admissions process is flexible, allowing you to present your academic achievements in the best possible light. 

Understanding recent admissions statistics can provide a valuable benchmark for your application. UChicago's admissions are competitive, and knowing where you stand in comparison can motivate you to strive for excellence in your academic journey.

The University of Chicago Average GPA: 4.0

The GPA requirements for the University of Chicago are not specified, but UChicago’s average GPA is 4.0. So, achieving an unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher in challenging classes will give you the best chance at admission.

The University of Chicago ​​Average SAT Score: 1340

UChicago’s recent class profile notes the SAT score range of admitted applicants is 1080-1600, making the average 1340. If you want to get admitted into UChicago, ensure that you aim for as high of an SAT score as possible. Please note that submitting an SAT or ACT score is optional and not required for admission.

The University of Chicago Average ACT Score: 28

UChicago’s recent ACT scores of admitted students range from 21 to 36, with an average of 28. While the college has no official ACT requirements, submitting a test score is always encouraged to help boost your application. 

What is the University of Chicago Looking For In Applicants?

The University of Chicago evaluates applications by focusing on inquiry, debate, and critical thought and using these values to make impactful changes to the world. You will stand out to the UChicago admissions committee if you align with these goals and values.

The University of Chicago admission requirements are holistic. There are no UChicago GPA requirements or minimum test scores. 

The University of Chicago Admissions Requirements 

The University of Chicago Application consists of several materials. The process includes:

• Your Common Application
• Application essays and supplemental essays
• Secondary school report and transcripts
• Two letters of recommendation
• Optional test scores
• College reports and transcripts (transfer applicants only)
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores (international applicants only)
• Application fee or fee waiver
• Mid-year report (first-year applicants only)
• Optional video profile
• Optional supplemental material

Make sure to familiarize yourself with the details and get started early! Also, UChicago accepts the Coalition App ! 

The University of Chicago Application Deadlines

It’s important to pay attention to deadlines when creating your college application timeline . Your University of Chicago application deadline will depend on which round of applications you choose: 

The UChicago decision date varies. As such, UChicago lists a general time frame rather than a specific date. The student reply due date is when you’ll have to accept or turn down the offer of admission.

The University of Chicago Regular Decision Deadline

The University of Chicago’s deadline for regular decisions is early January. Regular decision is a path that is non-binding, making it an excellent choice for students who want to take their time. You’ll have more time to complete the application and to compare offers from other schools.

The University of Chicago Early Action Deadline

The University of Chicago’s deadline for Early Action is early November. Early Action is an excellent choice for students who want to hear a decision early and take time to make their final decision. It is not binding. 

The University of Chicago Early Decision Deadline

The University of Chicago’s deadline for Early Decision I and II is early November and January. Early Decision is best for those who know that UChicago is their first choice of school. This plan is binding. You’re committing to attending UChicago if you’re accepted.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Into the University of Chicago

You might feel discouraged as you analyze data and start your UChicago application. However, by understanding this school's admissions processes and philosophies, you can increase your chances of getting accepted!

Understanding the Admissions Process

According to The University of Chicago admissions site, “each application at UChicago goes through the same holistic review process.” They then outline several things that they keep in mind when analyzing applications. 

Arguably, studying and understanding these criteria thoroughly is one of the most important things you can do when preparing your application. Here’s one of the main points of focus that the University of Chicago uses in its selection process:

UChicago welcomes students from all backgrounds, so don’t be afraid to highlight the more unique aspects of yourself. Try to talk about more outside-of-the-box experiences that you may have had. Did you grow up somewhere outside of the country? Maybe you've volunteered, worked on a family farm, or had unique obstacles to overcome. What did you learn? How did you use that knowledge to further your goals?

Show a unique side of yourself, and you can truly stand out as an applicant.

Understanding What the University Values

A great tip is to understand the university’s values. Below are a couple of UChicago’s values you can think about while you complete your application. 

Changing the World for the Better

The University of Chicago pushes students to better the world around them. In your application essays, give concrete examples of steps you have taken to make the world a better place. No matter how small of a task, show the University of Chicago that you have the drive to improve people's lives and have already taken the initiative.

Also, reinforce to the admissions committee that you plan to continue helping the world. Whether your goal is to develop new life-changing medications or start your own company, make sure that you leave the admissions committee with the impression that you want to make the world a better place for all.

Critical Thinking and Inquiry

UChicago finds great value in debate, critical thought, and intensive inquiry. Be sure to highlight any instances where you embodied these values, as doing so can help you stand out in the admissions process.

The University of Chicago Essay Prompts

The UChicago supplemental essays can show an admissions committee another side to you. The essays are the place to put forward the unique aspects of your personality. You can discuss your life experiences and the things that drive you. 

To write stellar essays , pick topics that you feel passionate about. Ensure you answer all parts of the questions, avoid clichés, and use your own voice! 

The essay portion of the UChicago application is unique. There are two required essays, and both are very different from the other. For the first essay, you have one prompt to answer:

“How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago.”

For the second essay, The University of Chicago presents prompts that are a lot more outside of the box. You will have to pick one to answer in the best way that you see fit. 

Here are the 2023-2024 UChicago supplemental essay prompts :

“Exponents and square roots, pencils and erasers, beta decay and electron capture. Name two things that undo each other and explain why both are necessary.”

– Inspired by Emmett Cho, Class of 2027

“‘Where have all the flowers gone?’ – Pete Seeger. Pick a question from a song title or lyric and give it your best answer.”

– Inspired by Ryan Murphy, AB’21

“‘Vlog,’ ‘Labradoodle,’ and ‘Fauxmage.’ Language is filled with portmanteaus. Create a new portmanteau and explain why those two things are a ‘patch’ (perfect match).”

– Inspired by Garrett Chalfin, Class of 2027

“A jellyfish is not a fish. Cat burglars don’t burgle cats. Rhode Island is not an island. Write an essay about some other misnomer, and either come up with and defend a new name for it or explain why its inaccurate name should be kept.”

– Inspired by Sonia Chang, Class of 2025, and Mirabella Blair, Class of 2027

“There are unwritten rules that everyone follows or has heard at least once in their life. But of course, some rules should be broken or updated. What is an unwritten rule that you wish didn’t exist? (Our custom is to have five new prompts each year, but this year we decided to break with tradition. Enjoy!)”

– Inspired by Maryam Abdella, Class of 2026

“And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option! In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun!”

Please note that these essays should be written in addition to the Common Application essays . Alternatively, if you apply to UChicago via the Coalition Application, you’ll have to respond to several different prompts . 

Still curious about how to get into the University of Chicago? Here are some common questions answered. 

1. Does the University of Chicago Accept Transfer Credit?

The University of Chicago does accept transfer credit for specific courses depending on the subject and the grade received. 

2. What GPA Do I Need to Get Into the University of Chicago?

The University of Chicago does not place the most emphasis on applicant GPAs , so there is no minimum GPA for admission. If you can portray your best qualities through your essays or make excellent test scores, you will be able to make up for what might feel like a low GPA. 

3. When Should I Prepare for the University of Chicago?

You should start preparing your application early. The University of Chicago admissions process can take a lot of time. You can have a more streamlined, relaxed application process by starting your application well in advance. Make sure to keep the UChicago application deadlines in mind. 

4. What Should I Do if I Get Rejected from the University of Chicago?

If you get rejected from the University of Chicago, it does not reflect your intelligence or abilities. You can try again in the next admissions cycle as a first-year student or spend a year at a different school and then apply as a transfer candidate.

5. What Is the University of Chicago Known For? 

The University of Chicago is known for its affiliation with nearly 100 Nobel Prize winners and numerous other award winners, as well as its globally recognized achievements in science and engineering. 

6. Does the University of Chicago Care About Demonstrated Interest?

No, the University of Chicago does not consider demonstrated interest as part of their admissions process.

7. Does the University of Chicago Require an Interview for Admission?

No, the University of Chicago does not require an interview, however, if you want to share more about yourself in your application, you can submit a two-minute video introduction. Your video doesn't have to be perfectly rehearsed or edited. You can record it using any platform you like. 

Final Thoughts

The University of Chicago is a diverse, prestigious school known for producing successful alumni. To give yourself the best chance of getting in, make sure to start your application early. Pay attention to the details, and don’t miss the deadlines! 

Overall, the University of Chicago is a challenging school to get into. However, with the right amount of time, energy, and preparation, you can increase your chances of attending this prestigious school. If you still think you need help getting into the University of Chicago, consider our UChicago admissions counseling services to increase your chances of admissions success .

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How to Get Into The University of Chicago: SAT and ACT Scores, GPA, and More

If studying rigorous academics on a historical campus (known for its inclusion in the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition ) while living in one of the best cities on earth sounds amazing to you… then The University of Chicago might be for you.

The University of Chicago is a highly prestigious, private research university located just a few miles south of Downtown Chicago, right on gorgeous Lake Michigan. Its phenomenal academic reputation and location make it widely appealing to students from around the world. And as you probably expected, it’s highly selective.

According to their website, “One of the world’s great intellectual destinations, The University of Chicago empowers scholars and students to ask tough questions, cross disciplinary boundaries, and challenge conventional thinking to enrich human life around the globe.”

So, do you have to be an academic rock star to get in? The answer is pretty much yes.

Just how competitive is University of Chicago? Extremely. In fact, it’s ranked #6 in national universities and it’s getting increasingly more selective every year.

Before we take a deep look at exactly how to get into The University of Chicago, here are some admissions statistics to give you a sense of what you’ll need to make the cut.

Quick University of Chicago Admissions Statistics

So as you can see, you’re going to need to be a pretty, pretty, pretty impressive candidate to get into The University of Chicago. But especially now that standardized test scores are optional, making your application stand out to The University of Chicago is going to be a whole new game.

More About Standardized Tests at The University of Chicago

Following the cue of some smaller liberal arts colleges, as well as DePaul University (also in Chicago), The University of Chicago has decided to stop requiring ACT and SAT scores starting in the fall of 2019, for the class of 2023.

In The Chicago Tribune’s recent piece, “ University of Chicago to stop requiring ACT and SAT scores for prospective undergraduates ” the author explains that the choice was made because “the tests place an unfair cost and burden on low-income and minority students, and ultimately hinder efforts to broaden diversity on campus.”

Furthermore, The University of Chicago is the very first elite college to do away with standardized testing to “help even the playing field for students coming from low-income and underrepresented communities.”

This is fantastic news, but is also means that you’ll have to stand out in other, less quantitative ways when applying to The University of Chicago.

And because the SAT and ACT are still optional, and you’ll likely be taking them for other schools, we’ll still go over the necessary scores ranges should you still want to submit your scores.

More About The University of Chicago SAT Scores

Looking at the historically very high SAT scores required to get into The University of Chicago can give you a sense of just how selective it is.

The average composite SAT score needed was a 1530 out of 1600. That’s pretty close to perfect!

As far as percentiles:

• The 25th percentile for The University of Chicago SAT scores was 1470
• The 7th percentile for The University of Chicago SAT scores was 1570

This means that a 1470 or lower was a below average score compared to everyone else admitted to U of C, while a 1570 or higher constituted an above average score.

So what can you do with this information now that the SAT is no longer required? Well, if you do opt to submit your SAT scores as a means of strengthening your overall application, you’ll want to aim for as close to 1600 as possible to really stand out. And on that front, Magoosh can help! You can use our free SAT practice test to get started on your SAT prep. (And a Magoosh SAT subscription can help you even more as you aim for the highest possible SAT score.)

More About The University of Chicago ACT Scores

The same idea applies to your ACT scores. Since they’re no longer required, you’ll want the highest ACT scores possible if you do choose to submit them.

Historically, the average composite ACT score of students accepted at University of Chicago was 34, and the percentiles shook out as follows:

• The 25th percentile for University of Chicago ACT scores was 34
• The 75th percentile for University of Chicago ACT scores was 35

This means that a score of 33 or lower would have been below average compared the other students admitted to U of C, while a score of 35 or higher would have placed you above average.

So if you plan to take the ACT and submit your scores, you’re going to want to aim for at least a 35, or in other words, a nearly perfect score!Again, Magoosh can get you pointed in the right direction with your prep. We have a free ACT practice test , too! And of course, if you want to go for Magoosh ACT Premium , you’ll get tons of additional questions, as well as video lessons and email support. (Just like SAT premium!)

Keep in mind that U of C also takes  ACT superscores  into consideration, so you may want to consider taking the test multiple times!

More About The University of Chicago GPA

While The University of Chicago is committed to considering more than just the numbers on your application, unlike standardized test scores, your GPA is still taken into consideration.

The average GPA of students admitted to University of Chicago is 4.48. Out of 4.0. Yowza.

So it may seem to go without saying, but in order to have a strong chance of being accepted, you’ll have to be at the tip-top of your class. We’re talking straight-A’s all the way.

And how does one even exceed a 4.0? Well, depending on how your high school calculates your GPA , you grades in honors, IB, and AP classes may be weighted differently. High grades in these types of courses often raise your GPA significantly.

And frankly, if you’re looking to get into The University of Chicago, you’ll want high grades in challenging courses anyway, because they reflects your ability to excel in academically rigorous, college-level courses.

Also–and this is super important to keep in mind–it’s quite difficult to change your GPA after your sophomore year. So if you know you’re interested in The University of Chicago early on, it’s a good idea to get on that straight-A streak early!

More About The University of Chicago Admissions Rate

Historically, the acceptance rate for The University of Chicago has been around 8-10% (and was 8.7% for the class of 2021), but this year it fell to a record-low of 5.9% , following last year’s 7.3%. Like many other highly-selective colleges, The University of Chicago is seeing increasingly bigger, more competitive candidate pools, and has lowered its admissions rates as a result.

According to Dean of Admissions James Nondorf, the University received nearly 35,000 applications, roughly 3,000 applicants more than last year!

The takeaway? Getting into University of Chicago isn’t impossible, but it’s a tall feat!

The University of Chicago Freshman Profile

The most recently published University of Chicago freshman profile reflects data on the class of 2023, which gives us a good sense of the demographics and diversity of recently admitted students.

Of the class of 2023:

• 22% are Asian
• 14% are Hispanic or Latino
• 16% are international
• 10% are black or African American
• 52% are male and 48% are female

This information hasn’t been updated for 2023 yet, but For the class of 2022, The University of Chicago saw a 69% increase in students from Chicago Public Schools, and a 56% increase in full-tuition scholarships for outstanding CPS students!

So as you can see, University of Chicago remains committed to accepting the best and brightest students from highly diverse demographics and backgrounds.

Other Admissions Requirements and Information for The University of Chicago

Okay, so if you don’t need standardized test scores to get into The University of Chicago, what exactly do you need to provide in your application?

This overview of applying to The University of Chicago is super helpful in explaining the qualitative requirements for admissions. According to the school:

This admissions approach gives you an amazing opportunity to showcase who you are, especially through your own writing. So if you’re a strong writer, all the better!

Here’s a checklist of exactly what you’ll need to apply:

• An application, which can be done through the Coalition Application or Common Application
• University of Chicago supplemental essay questions (2 questions total, one of which is chosen from several prompts)
• A list of extracurricular activities you’ve participated in
• A personal statement
• And application fee or fee waiver
• A high school report with a recommendation from your school counselor
• Your high school transcripts
• Two letters of recommendation from academic teachers who have taught you and know you well. Here’s a great overview of exactly how to ask for a letter of recommendation for college , but in short, make sure to ask teachers who can really speak to your academic ability, growth, potential, and character. And make sure to ask them well enough in advance so they have plenty of time to put thought into their responses.
• Your mid-year report (with grades through first-semester of your senior year)

Additionally, you are welcome to provide the following optional submission materials:

• A financial aid application (learn more about completing a FAFSA application )
• A 2-minute introductory video about yourself
• Any supplemental materials that you feel speak to your talent academically or artistically such as artistic projects or performances
• ACT and/or SAT scores

The University of Chicago FAQs

This is an amazing list of University of Chicago FAQs that covers just about any and all admissions concerns you may have, but here are a few other common inquiries about applying to U of C:

Does the University of Chicago accept transfers?

It sure does! You can read more about transferring to The University of Chicago here. The transfer rate is historically low, by the way, around 2%–but don’t let that deter you from applying!

Is The University of Chicago need-blind?

Yes. What this means is that your need (or lack thereof) for financial assistance will not be taken into consideration while reviewing your application.

Does The University of Chicago offer interviews?

No. If you would like to add a sense of your personality to your application, you can submit a 2-minute introductory video. However, it will not be a strike against your application if you do not submit a video.

How to Get Into University of Chicago

• Get very strong letters of recommendation.
• Complete the 2-minute intro video if you’re comfortable doing so. Giving U of C a sense of your personality and voice can give you a strong edge as an applicant.
• Participate in plenty of extracurricular activities, particularly in leadership roles, if possible.
• Don’t be afraid to brag! Include any awards, honors, service work, publications, etc., that you may be proud of.

According to Lena, an expert with Transizion, the most important thing the University of Chicago admissions committee looks–above academic excellence–is originality in their students:

So you’ll definitely want to make sure your writing is outstanding and truly captures who you are as a person. Revise, revise, revise, and make sure to get plenty of feedback, ideally from teachers you trust. Here’s more information on writing a common application essay that will get you accepted!

And of course, submitting your test scores can’t hurt, providing they’re impressive. If you do plan to submit ACT or SAT scores to University of Chicago, makes sure to start preparing early! Check out this great 1-week SAT free trial and 1-week ACT free trial to get you started.

Good luck!!!

Nadyja von Ebers is one of Magoosh’s Content Creators. Nadyja holds an MA in English from DePaul University and has taught English and at the high school and college levels for twelve years. She has a decade of experience teaching preparation for the AP exams, the SAT, and the ACT, among other tests. Additionally, Nadyja has worked as an academic advisor at college level and considers herself an expert in all things related to college-prep. She’s applied her college expertise to posts such as UCLA Admissions: The SAT Scores, ACT Scores, and GPA You Need to Get in and A Family Guide to College Admissions . Nadyja loves helping students reach their maximum potential and thrives in both literal and virtual classrooms. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys reading and writing for pleasure and loves spending time in or near the ocean. You can connect with her on LinkedIn !

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2 responses to “How to Get Into The University of Chicago: SAT and ACT Scores, GPA, and More”

Thx, this is what I always want to learn about UChicago and btw this is a very good hint. Glad they cancelled to submit a effectiveness SAT/ACT score since fall 2019, and I would like to apply for UChicago in 2021. And this new policy will really boost my chance of getting into UChicago.

We’re glad that you found our post helpful! 😀

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The University of Chicago does not have a strict minimum GPA requirement for undergraduate admissions. However, admitted students typically have very high GPAs, ranging from 3.8 to 4.0, with an average GPA of 3.95.

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SAT scores are optional for the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 application cycles, they are still considered in the admissions process.

University of Chicago's SAT scores for admitted students range from 1510 to 1580, with an average score of 1545.

Although SAT scores are optional, we recommend that students aim for a good SAT score of at least 1545 to be competitive in the admissions process at University of Chicago.

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ACT scores are optional for the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 application cycles; they are still considered in the admissions process.

University of Chicago's ACT scores for admitted students range from 33 to 35, with an average score of 34.

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Besides academic grades, University of Chicago has some additional requirements based on the program of study you apply for.

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Make sure you have extracurriculars relating to your area of study and those that show your dedication over time.

Recommendation Letters

University of Chicago requires two teacher recommendations.

If you feel as though mastery of the English language is already represented throughout your application, you are not required to submit formal exam scores to the University of Chicago.

You have the option to submit a two-minute video introduction instead of the traditional college interview, which is not part of the application process.

Helpful Resources

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An Ultimate Guide: University of Chicago Admission Requirements

The University of Chicago is a top-ranked University that many students wish to go to. It's because of the formidable challenges it offers, the illustrious library, the vibrant community, and other spectacular things. University's website itself says few things about why you need to choose UChicago over others.

If whatever we've said above gets you excited to gain admission to the University of Chicago, you need to know how to get into the University of Chicago.

In this guide, we have explained everything related to admission. It will inform you about score requirements, application requirements, and everything else associated with admission. Before we see the admission requirements, let's see an overview of the University of Chicago.

University of Chicago Overview

Founded in 1890, the University of Chicago, popularly known as UChicago, is in Chicago, Illinois, the USA, founded by John Dewey, William Rainey Harper, and Andrew Dickson White.

As per the " 2021 US news ranking ", UChicago is the 6th(tie) best University in the USA. As per the " 2021 QS World University Ranking ," UChicago is the World's 9th best University.

The tuition fee for admitted students at UChicago is $59,298 (2020-21). The total enrollment in the school is 14,739 . 5:1 is the student to faculty ratio in UChicago. For every 5 students, there's 1 faculty, which provides every student very personalized attention. 78.9% of classes in UChicago consist of fewer than 20 students.

The University of Chicago has significant names in the World as its alumni. Some notable alumni are Bernie Sanders (American Politician), Milton Friedman (American Economist), Morgan Saylor (American Actress), Harvey Levin (American television producer). 

Now let's see the score requirements for UChicago.

Why University of Chicago

Students in the College develop decisive, analytic, and writing skills in the university’s severe, interdisciplinary core curriculum. Through graduate programs, students test their ideas with UChicago scholars and become the next generation of leaders in academia, commerce, nonprofits, and government.

UChicago research has led to such inventions as discovering the link between cancer and genetics, discovering revolutionary theories of economics, and developing tools to produce certainly excellent urban schooling.

UChicago generated new acumens for the interest of present and future generations with their national and affiliated laboratories : Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

In all UChicago, is driven to delve deeper, push farther, and ask bigger questions- to enrich all human life. The diverse and creative students and alumni drive innovation, lead international conversations, and make masterpieces. Alumni and faculty, lecturers, and postdocs go on to become Nobel laureates, CEOs, university presidents, attorneys general, literary giants, and astronauts.

UChicago SAT Score Requirements

The University of Chicago is a very competitive institute considering scores requirements. The SAT 25th percentile score of UChicago is 1500. It means only less than 25% of admitted students score below 1500. 

The SAT 75th percentile score of UChicago is 1570. It means around 75% of admitted students have scored less than 1570. The average (50th Percentile) SAT score of UChicago we could find is 1535.

You can also concentrate on the 25th percentile and 75th percentile of both sections individually. For Math, the 25th percentile score is 770, and the 75th percentile score is 800. 

For EBRW, the 25th percentile score is 730, and the 75th percentile score is 770. Here, we can see you need more marks in the Math section to obtain the equivalent percentile score as EBRW.

If you believe you are weak in one section, try to score higher than needed in the other section. So, even if you get more points than required in one section but got less in another, you may still come to the necessary composite score.

SAT Score Policy:

College's SAT score policy decides its method in evaluating student's scores. This policy is different for every school. In the case of UChicago, the method they have is the "highest section."

"Superscoring" is another term for this policy. In this policy, the University will consider your highest section SAT score from all attempts.

For instance, if you took the SAT exam twice, for the first attempt, the composite score is 1516. In the score of 1516, 768 is of Maths, and 748 is of EBRW. In the second attempt, you received 1513 as a composite SAT score. But this time, he received 758 in Maths and 755 in EBRW.

Thus, your highest score for Math and EBRW are on the first and second attempts, respectively. And as UChicago has a policy of the highest section score, they will consider each subject's highest score.

Hence, UChicago will take your Maths score as 768 and EBRW as 755. It benefits the student as his score raised by 7 points, which now became 1523.

Hence as the highest section policy helps students, it's a must to retake the SAT exam. It gives you a chance to raise your composite score.

UChicago ACT Score Requirements:

The composite ACT 25th percentile score of UChicago is 33, and the 75th percentile score is 35. UChicago doesn't have any minimum score requirements. However, a lower score than the 25th percentile will make conditions hard for you to get admitted.

The composite score of ACT is the average of all 4 section scores. So, to get the expected composite score, you need to score around what you expected in every section.

UChicago GPA Requirements

It would help if you had a very high GPA for getting admitted to UChicago. The average GPA for UChicago is 4.0 on a scale of 4. You require a high school grade of "A" to receive this much GPA. If you're sure that you are not receiving this much GPA score, focus on gaining more marks in SAT / ACT.

Now let's move the application requirements.

UChicago Application Requirements

Application for admission:.

The University of Chicago accepts applications from both Coalition Application and Common Application . UChicago treats both platforms equally. You need to pick one of these two portals to apply for UChicago. You need to fill in all the required things which are common for all the applications. Plus, the following are the extra things you fill while applying to UChicago.

Extracurricular Activities: 

It's required for UChicago to mention the extracurricular activities. Here, you need to include the things where you spent your time outside the classroom. It can be anything from a club or a competition, or anything else.

UChicago doesn't have any preferences or expectations regarding extracurricular activities. The college only wants to see what is interesting and meaningful to you. The college does not need any certificate of participation in the activity. 

You can mention your extracurricular activities in the " Activities " section in the Common App. And in Coalition App, you can mention it in the "Activities/Experience" section. However, keep in mind that the Common App and Coalition App allow you to mention only 10 and 8 activities, respectively. If you think it's not sufficient, you can add it in the "Additional Information" section.

To know more about the activities section and how to fill it correctly, go to this blog.

You're required to write one supplementary essay from the list of prompts. You have a choice to choose any prompt in the list. With this, you also need to write a small essay on the topic "why you would like to attend the University of Chicago." Supplement for this is available in both the application.

UChicago Account

It's required to you to create a UChicago account. To create the account, you can go to getstarted.uchicago.edu . If you already started working on a coalition or Common App, you will receive an email with guidance on setting up your UChicago Account. With this account, you will be able to do the following things:

• Update your profile
• Apply for financial aid
• Upload materials
• Check admissions decision

Application Fee or Automatic Fee Waiver

While applying for UChicago, you need to submit $75 application fees. You can submit the application fee with both Coalition or Common App . The University will not charge any application fee if you are applying for need-based financial aid.

Secondary School Report

Your school counselor needs to submit your secondary school report. The school reports provide an overview of your academic records in high school. 

High School Transcript

UChicago needs an official transcript for your school counselor. It provides detailed coursework and grade for your complete high school career. 

Your transcript will provide a roadmap of your academic path to college. UChicago wants to see the transcript to see how you challenged yourself in four years of the high school course.

Teachers Recommendation:

You need a letter of recommendation from two teachers who taught you a major subject. The major subjects should be following: 

• Mathematics 
• Social Studies
• English or Literature
• Foreign Language

To know more about this, go to collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu/apply/first-year-applicants .

Midyear Report:

For the first semester or trimester, a high school counselor must submit your midyear report with a transcript or grades. For this report, you can use the application portal's grade report form, or you can use the school's mid-year report.

Standardized Test:

UChicago has a test-optional policy. So, it up to you to send the SAT score or not. The University will consider your application regardless of your score submission. If you think that your score is excellent and may influence the decision, you should submit your scores. 

If you think that your scores will negatively influence your decision, it is better not to submit your scores. You can see the score requirements above this blog. 

For more information regarding the standardized score, go to

collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu/apply/first-year-applicants .

Optional requirements:

The following are the optional requirements:

• Financial Aid Application
• Video Profile
• Supplementary Material

The following are the application deadlines of UChicago:

To no more in detail, go to collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu/apply/first-year-applicants .

What If You Are An International applicant?

For an international student, the application requirement is the same but with the English proficiency test requirement. You must demonstrate competence in English if you want to get admitted. For this, you can take tests like:

•  TOEFL - Test Of English as a Foreign Language )
• IELTS - International English Language Testing System )
• (DET) Duolingo English Test 

UChicago Acceptance Rate

You need to know the acceptance rate of the UChicago to know how selective they are. The acceptance rate displays how many percentages of aspirants get admitted. The World's top institutes are very selective while choosing applicants. And as the University of Texas is a leading college in the World, the acceptance rate is low.

The current general acceptance rate of UChicago is 6%. It means, in every 100 candidates, only 6 get accepted. 

The early application acceptance rate of UChicago is approximately 9.49%. So as we see, the early applicant's rate is high compared to regular decisions. Though, keep in mind that this could be because the more competent students apply early.

Each year, both these acceptance rates are decreasing. In the coming years, it may go even less. 

In short: only a few get picked. You could be among a few who get accepted to UChicago if you work hard.

What if Not Accepted? 

You did all that you can, you wait for a time, and you finally get the results. And unfortunately, you got rejected! In the end, the University of Chicago doesn't consider you an excellent fit for them. 

Does it mean you'll give up? No, not yet because there're still some options, not the usual type. It's no guarantee you'll get in, but you've already tried applying, so trying them out won't be too much of a hassle. Here they are: 

Alternative Option A: Go to another college and transfer to the University of Chicago later

You can try heading to another college and transferring to the University of Chicago later. The requirements for transferring are here . But before you get excited, you'll need to know that the transfer acceptance is 5.4%. 

It's lower than the acceptance rates for regular applicants. It means it's going to be very difficult to even get through the transfer process. But you can use your time with the other college and grow. Later, when you're ready to transfer to UChicago, you can show them you're different, and you're better than the first time you applied for them.

Alternative Option B: Apply again after a gap year

The next option is to reapply after finishing a gap year. What's a gap year? It's the year between your high school and applying for college, where you will not be doing any course. 

It's a riskier option to go for because when you reapply, UChicago may see you didn't do much with your time and might reject you again. 

But doing a gap year may be beneficial. The pros of doing a gap year include broadening your perspective, gaining professional experience, and making a difference. It's a way of building up yourself in ways that can benefit your overall growth as a person. 

It's also another way of building up your spike and maintaining excellence in other areas of interest. If you're ready to take the risk while building up to be the student the University of Chicago wants, you can go for this option. 

For a University that's got a reputation for having unusual essays, unique building design, a vibrant community, and a fancy library, the University of Chicago goes adequately secure. It can be hard to apply to them even with the SAT and ACT results being optional. 

It's because you have to prove that your scores aren't what make you the best of the best. You need to show the University of Chicago you have what it takes to be one of them. With the guide above, you can gain the factors and genuinely see the student who deserves to be with them.

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First-Year Requirements

• Undergraduate
• Requirements & Deadlines
• You are here

Did you know?

First-Year Applicants

First-year applicants are currently enrolled in high school, or have not attended college since graduation. If that doesn’t apply to you, select a new application type .

Application Pathways

UIC has two main pathways for first-year admission. Each pathway to admission has its own advantage. Be mindful of requirements and dates when choosing the one that’s right for you.

Learn more about application plans.

Here’s what you need to apply

All first-year applicants must meet these requirements to complete an application.

• Complete the Common Application online, including the specific questions and essays for UIC under the "My Colleges" tab. See  application tips for details.
• Submit the $60 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver.*
• Send official high school transcripts.
• Optional: Send ACT or SAT scores (S ee our test optional FAQ ) . Please note, if you choose to submit a score ("Test Inclusive"), you must provide a score report. We do not accept self-reported scores. We will accept scores if listed on the high school transcript, or an unofficial test report with identifying information (name, test date). We do not accept "super scores." To get a copy of your SAT score, you can visit this link.

*Fee waivers are only accepted for domestic applications. We do not offer application fee waivers for international students at this time.

Learn more about credential submission.

What we review

Factors for admission.

UIC admissions counselors review your application for academic preparedness and potential contribution to the UIC community. Here’s what we’re reviewing on your application. 

• Course selection and rigor (see our recommendations below ) 
• Grade point average (see our admitted student profile below )
• Quality of writing
• Demonstration of academic interest
• Identification of any current circumstances that contributed to your high school performance
• ​ Each College within the University has its own criteria when selecting applicants for admission. For example, STEM-related fields (i.e. engineering, computer science, biological sciences, and pre-health majors) may have different expectations for performance in high school math and science while other majors may emphasize strong grades in english. If applying for a STEM major, we strongly recommend taking four years of math and science in high school.
• ​ ACT or SAT scores are not required for admission but will be reviewed if provided. 
• AP or IB scores are not required but will be reviewed if provided.

Planning pays off

Plan your high school coursework.

While not required for admission, completed coursework in the subject areas listed below can make prospective first-year applicants more competitive. 

Additional Tips

• Take advantage of honors, AP, or IB and other college preparatory courses offered at your high school. When reviewing course rigor, our review team takes into consideration the coursework available at your high school.  
• Submit letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or extracurricular activity supervisors.
• Submit the Common Application mid-year report when your first semester grades from senior year become available.

Admitted Student Profile

Middle 50 percent of the admitted fall 2023 first-year class.

The values listed below represent the middle 50 percent of students who were admitted to UIC last year. They are not cut-offs for admission. In fact, 25 percent of admitted students fell below these ranges and 25 percent above. 

• We offer a test-optional pathway for admission and about two-thirds of applicants chose to be reviewed without a test score. We have split the profile into a test-optional profile and a test-inclusive profile.
• We know that numbers don't tell us the whole story. Remember while reviewing these charts that we conduct a holistic review of your application based on multiple factors not represented in these charts. 

Test Optional Profile

Test inclusive profile, other requirements, additional requirements may apply:.

• An essay for each program submitted with the application.
• Two recommendations submitted through the Common Application or via mail.
• International applicants . Must meet the core first-year requirements as well as display evidence of English competency and financial certifications. See  Undergraduate International Admissions Requirements  for details. 
• a list of all subjects/courses attempted by year.
• grades and/or examination results received (both passing and failing).
• maximum and minimum grades obtainable.
• number of units earned.
• High school graduates who have never attended another college or university must submit evidence of graduation from an accredited high school or submit passing scores on the General Educational Development (GED) test.
• Applicants to performance programs.  An audition is required for admission to all performance degree applicants. For audition requirements for theatre programs, please visit the Theatre Department's Auditions webpage , for Music programs, please visit the Music Department's Auditions webpage . 

Related Resources

• Summer Session
• Honors College
• UIC Academic Calendar

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF THE UIC ANNUAL SECURITY AND FIRE SAFETY REPORT

The University of Illinois Chicago is pleased to share the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report with all prospective students. The report contains information regarding campus security and personal safety including topics such as: crime prevention, public safety authority, crime reporting policies, fire safety, disciplinary procedures, and fire statistics in UIC residential facilities and crime statistics for the three previous calendar years. The full text of this report is available online at ready.uic.edu . If you would like to receive a copy on paper, visit the Office of Preparedness & Response, located at 1140 South Paulina Street, Suite 109, Chicago, IL 60612.

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University of Illinois at Chicago Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are University of Illinois at Chicago's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into University of Illinois at Chicago and build a strong application.

School location: Chicago, IL

This school is also known as: UIC

Admissions Rate: 78.7%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at University of Illinois at Chicago is 78.7% . For every 100 applicants, 79 are admitted.

This means the school is lightly selective . The school will have their expected requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores. If you meet their requirements, you're almost certain to get an offer of admission. But if you don't meet University of Illinois at Chicago's requirements, you'll be one of the unlucky few people who gets rejected.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

University of Illinois at Chicago GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.47

The average GPA at University of Illinois at Chicago is 3.47 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.47, University of Illinois at Chicago requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes. This will help boost your weighted GPA and show your ability to take college classes.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.47, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

University of Illinois at Chicago hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to University of Illinois at Chicago will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

University of Illinois at Chicago SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1120

The average SAT score composite at University of Illinois at Chicago is a 1120 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes University of Illinois at Chicago Competitive for SAT test scores.

University of Illinois at Chicago SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1120, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1320. In other words, a 1120 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1320 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

University of Illinois at Chicago has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, University of Illinois at Chicago will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and University of Illinois at Chicago forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1120, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

University of Illinois at Chicago ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, University of Illinois at Chicago likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 24

The average ACT score at University of Illinois at Chicago is 24. This score makes University of Illinois at Chicago Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 24, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 30.

Even though University of Illinois at Chicago likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 24 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 24 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to University of Illinois at Chicago, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 24.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

University of Illinois at Chicago considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is lightly selective, you have a great shot at getting in, as long as you don't fall well below average . Aim for a 1120 SAT or a 24 ACT or higher, and you'll almost certainly get an offer of admission. As long as you meet the rest of the application requirements below, you'll be a shoo-in.

But if you score below our recommended target score, you may be one of the very few unlucky people to get rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of University of Illinois at Chicago here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $60
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes Audition for music and theater majors, portfolio for art majors required for freshmen

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office February 1

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 2
• Social Studies 3

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes February 1 December 1
• Yes November 1 December 1

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 1200 Chicago, IL 60607
• Phone: (312) 996-4350 x4350
• Fax: (312) 413-7628
• Email: [email protected]

Our Expert's Notes

We did more detailed research into this school's admissions process and found the following information:

You will apply to one of the following colleges: College of Applied Health Sciences College of Architecture, Design and the Arts College of Business Administration College of Education College of Engineering College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

To look at majors and minors within each school to help with your decision, see here. For the Honors College, there is an additional application you can fill out from the Common App, which you can learn more about here. Scholarship consideration is automatic.

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in University of Illinois at Chicago, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to University of Illinois at Chicago.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than University of Illinois at Chicago. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for University of Illinois at Chicago, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for University of Illinois at Chicago, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If University of Illinois at Chicago is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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The SAT is coming back at some colleges. It’s stressing everyone out.

A patchwork of admissions test policies is wreaking havoc on students, parents and college admissions consultants.

A California mother drove 80 miles this month to find an SAT testing center with an open seat where her high school junior could take the exam. During college tours this spring, a teen recalled hearing some would-be applicants groan when admissions staffers announced they could not guarantee test-optional policies would continue.

And across the country, college counselors are fielding questions from teenagers alarmed, encouraged or simply confused by what seems like the return of the standardized test in admissions — maybe? Sort of? In some places, but not in others?

“You could be expecting and preparing for a certain way to apply to a college and present yourself — but then they change it mid-application process,” said Kai Talbert, a 17-year-old high school junior in Pennsylvania. “That’s really confusing. It can set back a lot of people.”

Colleges nationwide have been updating their coronavirus-era policies on standardized testing, which many dropped when the pandemic shut down in-person testing centers. Some of the most selective schools are declaring they will require tests again — including, across the last two months, Dartmouth College and Yale and Brown universities. Others, such as the University of Chicago and Columbia University, won’t. And still others have not yet picked a permanent policy: Princeton, Stanford, Cornell and the University of Pennsylvania have said they will remain test-optional for another year or two, and Harvard University plans to keep its test-optional policy at least through the 2025-26 application cycle.

Public universities have veered in different directions, too: The University of Tennessee system requires tests. The University of Michigan will be test-optional. The University of California system is test-blind, meaning schools refuse to consider SAT or ACT scores for admissions.

The patchwork of policies is wreaking havoc on applicants, parents and college admissions consultants nationwide, who are being forced to recalculate where and how they are willing to apply — or what to tell anxious teenagers about whether to test, retest or skip testing entirely — as decisions keep rolling out in real time.

Laurie Kopp Weingarten, founder of One-Stop College Counseling in New Jersey, said she has a new response whenever a student gives her a list of their school targets. She starts by going down the list, school by school, to review each institution’s testing rules and whether those seem likely to change.

Taking a breath, Weingarten rattled off a summary of the different testing requirements in place at every Ivy League school. It took her three minutes.

“Even just saying it, it sounds like insanity to me, and then we’re expecting kids to understand this?” Weingarten said. “Colleges should really analyze the data, come up with a decision and stop changing their mind.”

The shifting testing expectations are among many changes roiling college admissions this year. Colleges are still grappling with the fallout from the landmark Supreme Court ruling that ended the use of race-based affirmative action in admissions. Many are undertaking an array of experiments in response to the decision in a bid to maintain diverse admitted classes — ending legacy preferences in some cases, adding essay prompts on adversity or identity in others, or increasing outreach in low-income areas.

And the disastrous rollout of a federal financial aid form that was supposed to simplify the notoriously difficult process has left students, parents and schools scrambling .

This is the most hectic and distressing admissions cycle in recent memory, said Jennifer Nuechterlein, a college and career counselor at a New Jersey high school. She laid special blame on schools that reinstated testing mandates in the past two months, some of which affect the high school juniors who will begin applying in the fall. This class of teens will have to take the SAT or ACT, should they decide to do so, within the next six months.

“Students can’t just test overnight,” Nuechterlein said. “There are students who want to prep, there are students who are not math- or English-ready. ... Students are going to be unprepared.”

For the most ambitious, high-achieving students, the tests are another stressful hurdle to clear as they apply to the most selective colleges. And for many other students, the test scores — even if not required for admission — are mandatory if they want to qualify for some financial aid programs or, on some campuses, certain degree programs.

Critics of standardized tests have argued that they mirror, or exacerbate, societal inequities, in part because students from unstable homes or with limited resources cannot afford SAT or ACT tutors or testing preparation classes, or may not know of free resources such as Khan Academy . Even before the pandemic, some schools had moved to make the scores optional to avoid creating another barrier for students.

Then the pandemic hit, spurring a crisis response when students literally could not access spaces in which to take standardized tests, said Dominique J. Baker, a University of Delaware associate professor of education and public policy who studies admissions policies.

“There were a number of institutions that never would have chosen to have gone test-optional except the pandemic made them,” she said. “Those institutions, by and large, are going back to requiring test scores.”

MIT, Georgetown University and the University of Florida are among schools that quickly chose to reinstate the requirements, with MIT announcing the change in 2022. Many others have spent the years since the virus arrived studying what effect going test-optional had on their admitted classes.

At Brown, Yale and Dartmouth, officials said they had found something surprising: Considering test scores would help them identify more promising applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, not fewer. After looking at their own data, leaders at the three Ivy League schools say they concluded that SAT and ACT scores are highly predictive of students’ academic performance in college, more so than high school grades. They also found that some less-advantaged students withheld their scores when sharing them would have boosted their chances.

Depriving admissions officers of SAT and ACT scores meant they were less able to evaluate an applicant’s chances of thriving at Brown, Provost Francis J. Doyle III said in an interview this month .

“Our analysis suggested our admissions could be more effective if we brought back testing as an instrument,” Doyle said.

The University of Texas at Austin is also choosing to require testing again, the school announced earlier this month. Jay Hartzell, the school’s president, said he and others worried the cost and preparation associated with the tests could keep students from applying. But about 90 percent of UT Austin applicants in the latest round took the SAT even though it was optional, Hartzell said. And the school found that students who declined to submit scores were less successful once enrolled.

John Friedman, a professor of economics and international and public affairs at Brown, said he wouldn’t be surprised if more of those highly selective schools reinstate a testing requirement. He was one of the authors of the study from Opportunity Insights, a nonprofit at Harvard University, on standardized test scores and student performance at a dozen “Ivy-plus” universities.

“It’s not just about the test scores being a good predictor,” he said. “We show in the paper that students who attend a school, having been admitted without a test score, perform at the bottom of the distribution.” He said schools should look at their own data to determine their policy.

Nonetheless, most schools nationwide will probably remain test-optional, predicted Angel Pérez, the chief executive of the National Association for College Admission Counseling. For many institutions, he said, the policy has been a huge success, bumping up the number of applicants and diversifying admitted classes.

He added that most American high-schoolers are applying to schools that admit nearly all applicants, to public schools or to colleges close to home, he said: “So the majority of students aren’t going to be impacted.”

Morehouse College is among those maintaining a test-optional policy, which the historically Black college adopted in 2020. Since going test-optional, Morehouse has seen an increased number of applicants and an increased acceptance rate from admitted students, said Michael Gumm, Morehouse’s director of admissions and recruitment.

The majority of Morehouse applicants choose not to submit scores, Gumm said, and more students are completing their applications than in the past. He said Morehouse is looking for leaders, so essays and letters of recommendation carry a lot of weight.

Gumm said he often preaches to students: “Your test scores do not make you who you are.”

But for some students, the tests remain a priority. Alina Bunch, a 16-year-old high school junior in Texas, said that even when she saw schools dropping test requirements, she never altered her plan to take the ACT. The exam, she says, is a way to demonstrate determination and academic rigor.

She thinks it’s generally a good thing that schools are bringing back testing requirements, because they can function as a mechanism of standardization in a sometimes subjective admissions process. She does fear the effects of reinstating test requirements for students who cannot afford tutoring.

But for herself — after taking a summer course to prepare for the ACT and scoring high on the exam — she has no real worries. “It was never a question for me, of whether I should do it or not,” Alina said.

Many students pursued similar strategies, continuing to take standardized tests throughout the test-optional trend. After a dramatic drop in 2020 spurred by the sudden closure of test sites, the number of students taking the SAT nationally has risen every year since, per the College Board, and reached 1.9 million for the class of 2023. That’s about 300,000 short of the last pre-pandemic total, when 2.2 million members of the class of 2019 sat for the exam — the largest-ever group to do so.

Joan Koven, who heads college consulting company Academic Access in Pennsylvania, said she never expected standardized testing to suffer a real drop in popularity.

“The ACTs and the SATs are Burger King and McDonald’s,” she said. “They’re not going away.”

But in some places, counselors wish they would. Priscilla Grijalva, a high school counselor in California’s San Jacinto Unified School District, said the elimination of test requirements in the UC system and California State University campuses was a godsend for the nearly 300 students she works with every year, a mix of White, Black and Latino teens, most of whom are socioeconomically disadvantaged.

In the past, many of her students applied only to community colleges. But now she has seen a sharp rise in those willing to aim for state universities.

“It has changed our students’ mindsets,” Grijalva said. “Now it’s like, ‘Hey, I can do this.’ They’re more confident in their leadership and their grades.”

But the flurry of recent announcements from schools altering their testing rules has proved alarming, she said. Her students “do feel the pressure coming back,” she said. “They’re starting to talk.”

Claire Elkin, 16, overheard some of this nervous chatter when she was touring colleges this spring with her family — making visits to places including the University of Virginia, Vanderbilt University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At every school, recalled Claire, who took the ACT and intends to submit her scores, admissions tour leaders said something like: “Yeah, we’re test-optional now, but we can’t guarantee anything for you.”

Every time, the crowds of hopefuls around Claire broke into murmurs that ranged from anguished to angry, she said. She remembered one family whose daughters seemed especially upset, spurring the mother to jump into emergency action trying to calm the girls as the admissions presentation continued.

“A lot of kids my age can’t set a path right now for what they should be prioritizing when they’re applying for schools,” Claire said. “So there is definitely more panic.”

An earlier version of this article included incorrect information about the rise in the number of students who have taken the SAT since a drop sparked by the pandemic. The number of students taking the test reached 1.9 million for the class of 2023, about 300,000 fewer than for the class of 2019. The article has been corrected.

Preparing for College

The very best way to prepare for college is to make the most of your high school experience—high school is a time to explore and discover. Spend the coming months or years taking a strong curriculum in your school, participating in outside activities that are meaningful to you, and spending time with your friends and family, and you will likely be well-prepared to put together a strong college application.

High School Curriculum

When making curriculum choices, seek out courses that will enrich and challenge you, rather than worry about how they will look to a college application reader. Every college looks at applications differently, so it’s difficult to predict what will look “good” to every college. Many colleges have course requirements that students must fulfill in high school, however, so it is a good idea to explore requirements beforehand for colleges that may be of future interest to you. In general, it is recommended that students enroll in classes in a breadth of academic subjects, such as:

• 4 years of English
• 3–4 years of math*
• 3–4 years of laboratory sciences
• 3 or more years of social sciences
• Foreign language study (2–3 years recommended)

*As stated above, the University does not require any specific courses for admission. Rather, we wish for students to pursue challenging coursework in any path that is available and relevant to them. In mathematics, this may include coursework in data science, statistics, mathematical modeling, linear algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and other advanced math classes. Students will always have the opportunity to complete required mathematics coursework, such as calculus, if required for their program of study in the College while on campus. 

Extracurricular Activities

Colleges look at what you are involved in outside of class to learn about what interests you and to see that you’re engaged in the world around you. Some students participate in organizations within their schools or in their community, some work part-time jobs or volunteer, and others have family responsibilities. Any and every one of those activities, leadership roles, and jobs should be listed on a college application.

Summer Opportunities

Summer is a great time to continue or deepen your academic-year pursuits, or to explore new ones. As with activities during the school year, continue to engage with whatever is interesting or meaningful to you. Some possible summer opportunities include:

College Summer Programs

College Summer Programs provide an inside look into college life. Many colleges and universities offer summer programs for high school students. Below are a few examples of The University of Chicago's Summer Session programs:

• College Pathway Programs
• UChicago Immersion
• Research in the Biological Sciences (RIBS)
• Stones and Bones
• Neubauer Family Adelante Summer Scholars
• Undergraduate courses for high school students

Check out the Summer Session Photo Gallery for a look at past summer session classes and activities.

Volunteering

Some students enjoy volunteering over the summer because it allows them to engage in their community and create meaningful connections. Students can volunteer through mediums such as:

• Sustainable Development Summer—High School Summer Abroad
• Local Hospitals
• Park Districts
• Zoo/Wildlife Preserves
• Lion’s Heart—Teen Volunteers and Leaders
• Giving Privilege—Volunteering Redefined
• Local Campaigns
• Habitat for Humanity
• Religious Organizations

Summer camps allow you to hone certain skills. Examples Include:

• Athletic Camps
• Boys/Girls Scouts
• Journalism Camps
• Leadership Camps
• Music Camp (Band Camp, Choir Camp, Orchestra Camp)
• Pre-Professional Camps (Medicine, Law, Engineering)
• Speech/Debate Camp

Internships

You do not need to choose a career in high school. If you do have a specific interest, though, practical experience in that area through an internship can be highly informative as you make plans over the coming years.

Whether it’s across the globe, across the country, or even just across town, travel can provide a new perspective on the world around you. Exploring new places and meeting new people, even in areas very close to where you live, can yield experiences that will be useful in constructing your college application.

Family Responsibilities

Taking care of siblings, grandparents, and other family members is an important responsibility and can represent a significant commitment of time and effort. If family responsibilities are a significant part of your life, be sure to include them on your application.

Any paid position you have held should be listed on a college application. Jobs teach you skills necessary for success in college, including: time management, teamwork, customer service, and communication.

Many students have things they love to do that are not officially organized activities, like reading, making art, and playing sports with friends. Include all these interests and activities on your application!

Taking AP or IB classes? College-level classes in high school? Explore how your credits transfer to UChicago.