University of Chicago

University of Chicago Financial Aid

Students who are applying for financial aid at UChicago need to submit both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or FAFSA), as well as the CSS Profile.

The FAFSA uses financial information from the prior, prior year which means that you don’t need to wait for the year to end and can use last year’s financial information.

The FAFSA code for UChicago is 001774 and the CSS Profile Code is 1832.

It should be noted that while the FAFSA is free, the CSS Profile does require an application fee. However, students can qualify for a CSS Profile application fee waiver if the cost will present a financial hardship for the students’ family.

If you are looking for more information on how to complete the FAFSA or the CSS Profile, check out these resources:

• How to Complete the FAFSA
• How to Complete the CSS Profile

Using State Grants at UChicago

Illinois residents considering UChicago should be sure to look into the MAP program. In-state students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for MAP grant money from the state as long as the program is on the list of approved colleges. The program can pay up to $8,400 per year towards your education. Approved schools include both public and private options.

University of Chicago QuestBridge Scholarships

UChicago is a member of QuestBridge, which is a prestigious scholarship program that supports high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds. Students who are “matched” to University of Chicago through QuestBridge receive a four year, full ride scholarship to the school. If you are interested in learning more about QuestBridge, you can check out our QuestBridge Scholarship guide.

University of Chicago’s 100% Need-Met Guarantee

UChicago has committed to meeting 100% of applicants’ financial needs. They determine your financial need using the FAFSA and/or CSS Profile, and will ensure that your financial aid package covers any costs you cannot pay.

Stamps Scholarship at UChicago

UChicago participates in the Stamps Scholarship Program, which means that they offer recurring scholarships to select admitted students. These awards range between $6,000 to $90,000 per year. Many schools automatically consider admitted students for Stamps Scholarships. However, some schools have a separate application process; be sure to check UChicago's website for information on how to apply.

No Loan Policy at UChicago

UChicago is a no-loan school, which means that their financial aid packages offer students grants and scholarships in place of the federal loans that are typically part of a package. This means that their financial aid is more generous than most, and they help bridge the gap between cost and student need. Some no-loan schools offer this policy for all accepted students while others only extend it to students below a specific income level, or to in-state students. Be sure to check UChicago's website for details on their No-Loan policy.

Pell Grants at University of Chicago

14% of students at University of Chicago receive Pell Grants, which are awarded to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need (students who have a bachelor’s or professional degree are not eligible). Pell Grants are awarded by the federal government and do not need to be repaid. To apply for a Pell Grant, students will need to submit their FAFSA. If you are awarded a Pell Grant, you’ll see it listed in your financial aid award letter if you are accepted to University of Chicago.

You can learn more about Pell Grant eligibility here.

Outside Scholarships

UChicago students can also apply for outside scholarships to fund their education. Outside scholarships are awards that are offered by private and non-profit organizations. If you want to see what outside scholarships you are eligible for, check out these resources:

• Top scholarships for high school seniors
• Top scholarships for college students
• Scholarship database

1535 is the median SAT score and 34 is the median ACT score for admitted students at UChicago. A score that is close to this median value indicates that you have a good chance of admission to the institution. However, it’s important to remember that colleges judge applications holistically. If the rest of your application is strong, it’s possible to make up for lower test scores.

Coalition Colleges

UChicago is a Coalition Member College, which means they have completed a vigorous vetting process from the Coalition for College to ensure that they “provide substantial support to lower-income, under-resourced and/or first-generation students; offer responsible student financial aid; and demonstrate a commitment to student graduation.” That also means you can apply to UChicago via the Coalition Application. The Coalition Application makes it easy to obtain application fee waivers if you qualify. It’s also a great way to discover other colleges that have demonstrated a strong commitment to affordability and strong student outcomes.

Does UChicago have a supplemental essay?

Yes, applicants to University of Chicago will have to write a supplemental essay in order to complete their application. Luckily, we have a guide to help you through that essay prompt and stand out in the application process.

Does University of Chicago charge an application fee?

Good news! University of Chicago does not charge application fees, so you can apply for free. If you think there is any chance you’d like to attend University of Chicago, consider sending in an application since it will not cost you anything.

Is UChicago test-optional?

University of Chicago is test-optional, which means that it does not require applicants to submit their SAT or ACT scores. That means that some students will submit their test scores and others will not. If you choose not to submit your ACT or SAT score, the admissions officers will weigh your grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and interviews more heavily. If you are not sure whether you should submit your standardized test scores, our guide on submitting scores to test-optional schools can help.

What SAT/ACT score do you need to get into University of Chicago?

Colleges use standardized tests like the SAT and ACT as one of many factors to determine their admissions decisions. A high score on one of these tests does not guarantee admission to a college, and a low score does not guarantee rejection. However, the majority of accepted applicants to University of Chicago receive between a 34 and a 35 on their ACT, or a 1480 and a 1580 on their SAT.

Can students submit their SAT or ACT Superscore to UChicago?

Yes, applicants can submit their SAT or ACT Superscore when they apply to University of Chicago. You should be able to find your superscore for either test on your student portal. Keep in mind that some colleges only allow Superscores for one of the two tests, so be sure to check their website for exact details on the Superscore policy.

What is the application deadline at UChicago?

Students must apply by January 2 to enroll at UChicago during the fall semester. Remember that college applications involve many pieces, including essays, a transcript, letters of recommendation, and more. Be sure to start your application as soon as you can to make sure you have enough time to make it as compelling as possible.

At UChicago students also have the opportunity to apply Early Decision. In order to take advantage of this option, you’ll have to have your application in by November 1.

You can also choose to apply Early Decision II, with a later deadline of January 2.

And if you’re considering applying Early Action at UChicago, remember that the deadline is November 1.

Should I apply Regular or Early Decision to UChicago?

Applying to UChicago with Early Decision can be a great decision if you are 100% sure you want to go there. You’ll find out your admissions decision earlier than other students, and some data shows that you may help your admissions chances. However, you should keep in mind that Early Decision is binding. If you do get into the school, you won’t be able to change your mind later. If there is any doubt in your mind, you should apply Early Action or Regular Decision instead.

Read more: All you need to know about Early Action vs Early Decision

Should I apply Early Action at UChicago?

Early Action is a great option for students who want to hear back from a college before the Regular Decision admissions are released. At some colleges, applying Early Action can also help your admissions chances. However, this varies on a college-by-college basis, so it will not always give you a boost.

Be on the lookout for Single Choice Early Action or Restricted Early Action options. These are not the same as Early Action, and although they can be great options for some students, they are not a good fit for everyone. If you’re considering applying for Single Choice Early Action or Restricted Early Action, be sure to read the college’s admissions website carefully. Make sure that these restrictions fit with your college admissions plan.

Is University of Chicago need-blind?

Yes, University of Chicago has need-blind admissions, which means they do not take financial need into account when they decide who to accept. If your FAFSA and/or CSS Profile indicate that you would need substantial financial aid, you will still be on equal footing with applicants who do not require any aid at all.

What is the graduation rate at University of Chicago?

96% of students who start at University of Chicago end up finishing their degree within six years of enrolling. This is 38% more than the national median. A higher graduation rate indicates that students have better experiences at an institution.

How much do graduates of University of Chicago go on to earn?

10 years after starting school at University of Chicago, the median earnings among students who received federal financial aid was $91,885. This is $41,494 more than the national median.

Earnings can vary widely based on many factors other than school choice. Your major and career path can cause substantial changes in your income down the line. For more information, check out our article on the average starting salary out of college.

How much do students at UChicago take out in loans?

Graduates of UChicago have to take out a median of $15,000 in federal student loans. This is $1,500 more than the national median. As you make decisions about your college loans, it’s important to inform yourself on the advantages and disadvantages of each loan option. Our guide to navigating these different options is a great place to start.