Colleges in Chicago
Chicago’s higher education scene is a rich mosaic of rigorous research universities, technology-oriented institutions, arts and design schools, and urban comprehensive universities deeply connected to city life. If you’re choosing among the Chicago area’s best colleges, this guide explores leading institutions, what they’re known for, how to apply, flagship programs, approximate cost structures, and neighborhood context. Use these profiles to help you narrow choices, understand fit, and plan your application strategy.
Why Chicago is a compelling college city
Before diving into individual colleges, here’s why Chicago is attractive for students:
- City as a classroom: Museums, architecture, cultural festivals, corporate offices and nonprofits — many colleges tap into these resources for internships, project work, exhibitions and networking.
- Diverse industries: Finance, consulting, health care, media, design, manufacturing and tech all converge in Chicago, giving graduates accessible local pathways.
- Transit and connectivity: A well-developed public transit system (buses, “L” trains) allows students to live off campus or explore distant neighborhoods relatively easily.
- Campus variety in neighborhoods: Some colleges are embedded in leafy residential zones; others are right in the urban core or near business districts. Each offers a distinct vibe.
With that in mind, here are some of the best colleges in Chicago (and adjacent), along with their key features.
Top Colleges in Chicago & Profiles
1. University of Chicago (UChicago) — Hyde Park, Chicago
Location & Campus Vibe
On the city’s South Side, Hyde Park is a historic and academic neighborhood. The UChicago campus is known for its Gothic architecture, quiet quads, and an intellectual intensity that permeates student life.
Signature Programs (Main Courses / Majors)
- Core liberal arts (philosophy, classics, economics)
- Social sciences (political science, sociology, economics)
- STEM: physics, mathematics, molecular engineering, biology
- Interdisciplinary programs (environmental studies, data science)
- Professional courses via joint degree programs (law, public policy, business)
UChicago encourages undergraduates to engage in independent research, seminars, and cross-disciplinary study.
Admissions Procedure
- Submit Common Application (or Coalition) + UChicago supplemental essays
- High school transcripts (all years)
- Standardized test score requirement varies—some years optional / flexible
- Letters of recommendation (usually two teachers plus school counselor)
- Optional or recommended interviews (conducted regionally or by alumni)
- For financial aid: submit FAFSA (for U.S. students) and institutional aid forms as requested
- Deadlines: usually “Early Action / Early Decision” and Regular Decision
Fees & Cost Estimate
For illustration, the full cost of attendance (tuition + fees + room & board + other expenses) falls in the high private university range in the U.S. A student who receives aid may pay a significantly lower net price depending on need. UChicago emphasizes that students should not have to borrow for basic living costs — many financial aid packages rely heavily on grants rather than loans.
Strengths & Considerations
Strength: intense academic environment, deep research opportunities, high prestige.
Consideration: rigor is demanding — students often speak of heavy workloads and a strong intellectual culture.
2. Northwestern University — Evanston (plus Chicago professional presence)
Location & Campus Vibe
Though its main campus is in Evanston (north of Chicago), Northwestern maintains substantial presence in the city, particularly through its professional and graduate schools. Evanston has a college town feel with access to the lake, transit into the city, and a blend of quiet and activity.
Signature Programs
- Journalism and media (Medill School)
- Business (Kellogg School)
- Engineering and computer science
- Law, medicine, and health sciences
- Integrated interdisciplinary programs (e.g. combined degrees)
Admissions Procedure
- Use Common Application, with school supplements
- Submit transcripts, test scores (as required), recommendations
- Sometimes optional essays to showcase personality, interests
- Early Decision / Regular Decision track
- Financial aid: FAFSA + CSS Profile (if required) for determining institutional aid
Fees & Cost Estimate
Tuition and fees for a full year for undergraduates tend to be high among U.S. private universities. Add housing, meals, books, and other personal expenses for the total cost of attendance. Scholarships (merit- and need-based) are offered to many admitted students.
Strengths & Considerations
Strength: professional school strength, strong alumni networks, capacity for industry linkage.
Consideration: cost is high; you’ll want to ensure your intended major is well supported and aligns with Northwestern’s strengths.
3. DePaul University — Lincoln Park & Loop Campuses, Chicago
Location & Campus Vibe
DePaul is deeply urban. The Lincoln Park campus has a more residential feel in a northern district, while the Loop campus is in the heart of downtown Chicago, giving direct proximity to corporate, media and nonprofit offices.
Signature Programs
- Business (accounting, finance, management)
- Computing and IT (software development, cybersecurity)
- Digital media, communication, film
- Education, psychology, social work
- Performing arts (music, theatre)
Admissions Procedure
- Apply through DePaul’s application or through Common Application
- Submit transcript, required test scores if applicable
- Some programs (e.g. performing arts) may require auditions, portfolios, or additional materials
- Rolling admissions is common — apply early for best chance at housing, scholarship offers
- For financial aid: submit FAFSA, and any institutional aid forms if needed
Fees & Cost Estimate
DePaul’s published tuition typically reflects an annual rate; additional costs include housing, meals, and fees. DePaul offers institutional scholarships and merit awards. Many students reduce cost through these scholarships or by attending a local community college earlier.
Strengths & Considerations
Strength: excellent internship pipelines, very practical and career-oriented focus.
Consideration: due to urban campuses, housing may be more fragmented; commuting or finding affordable city housing can be a challenge.
4. Loyola University Chicago — Rogers Park / Lakefront & Additional Campuses
Location & Campus Vibe
Loyola’s flagship campus is located near Chicago’s lakefront in the Rogers Park area (northern side). Its setting provides both proximity to city life and the calm of lakeside neighborhoods.
Signature Programs
- Health sciences (nursing, physical therapy, public health)
- Business and accounting
- Social work, education, counseling
- Law (for those pursuing graduate law)
- Liberal arts core and interdisciplinary studies
Admissions Procedure
- Submit application (Loyola’s own or via Common Application)
- Provide transcripts, standardized test scores (if required)
- Essays or personal statements may be needed
- For scholarships, apply by priority deadlines
- Submit FAFSA or institutional aid application as needed
Fees & Cost Estimate
Tuition and fees vary by school/department and status (in-state, out-of-state, international). The university publishes a full cost-of-attendance, including housing, meals, books and personal expenses. Loyola also offers aid packages, merit scholarships, and work-study opportunities.
Strengths & Considerations
Strength: balanced between professional preparation and mission-driven education, strong health sciences reputation in Chicago.
Consideration: some majors have higher competition or additional requirements (e.g., health professions).
5. Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech / IIT) — Near South Side / Bronzeville
Location & Campus Vibe
IIT’s campus lies in the Near South Side / Bronzeville region, a city area undergoing revitalization. The campus is compact but well-equipped with labs, architectural studios and tech facilities.
Signature Programs
- Engineering (mechanical, electrical, civil, biomedical)
- Computer science and data analytics
- Architecture and design
- Physics, applied mathematics
- Robotics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence
Admissions Procedure
- Use Illinois Tech’s application or the Common Application (depending on program)
- Submit high school transcripts, test scores if required
- For architecture or design, submit portfolio or relevant creative materials
- Scholarships often awarded based on strong academic record or special talent
- For financial aid: submit FAFSA or international financial documentation
Fees & Cost Estimate
Tuition and fees for undergraduates are typically in the mid to upper five-figure range (U.S. dollars). The full cost-of-attendance includes housing, meals, and additional fees for labs or studio courses. Many students receive merit-based scholarships or departmental awards.
Strengths & Considerations
Strength: specialized technical training, close ties to Chicago’s engineering and tech industries, strong lab and research infrastructure.
Consideration: students should be comfortable with a more focused curriculum, possibly heavier in STEM and project work, and possibly less breadth in liberal arts.
6. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) — Chicago Loop / Cultural Core
Location & Campus Vibe
SAIC is located in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, close to Grant Park, major museums, galleries and the cultural hub of the city. Students are embedded in the arts fabric of the city.
Signature Programs
- Fine arts (painting, sculpture, printmaking)
- Digital art, photography, new media
- Design (graphic, interaction, industrial)
- Art education, curatorial studies
- Interdisciplinary arts, experimental programs
Admissions Procedure
- Apply with SAIC’s application or via a portfolio-based admissions process
- Submit a portfolio (e.g. visual work, creative digital media)
- Statements of intent, artist statements, project statements
- Transcripts and possibly letters of recommendation
- Financial aid: apply for institutional and external scholarships
Fees & Cost Estimate
Tuition for art institutions tends to be high, especially with studio and lab fees. SAIC publishes per-credit or per-semester rates and adds costs for materials and studio use. Many students rely on merit scholarships or arts grants to help with costs.
Strengths & Considerations
Strength: high degree of creative freedom, direct access to galleries, exhibitions, art professionals, and collaborative frameworks.
Consideration: visual arts education can be expensive (material costs, studio fees); success often depends heavily on the strength of your portfolio and creative maturity.
7. Columbia College Chicago — South Loop / Media & Arts District
Location & Campus Vibe
Columbia is embedded in Chicago’s South Loop, in the arts and media district. It’s an urban environment, with close access to studios, theaters, media firms, and cultural institutions.
Signature Programs
- Film production and media arts
- Journalism and publishing
- Theatre, performance, acting
- Graphic design, illustration, digital arts
- Music, sound design, audio production
Admissions Procedure
- Application through Columbia’s application portal
- Many programs require portfolios, reels, creative samples, or auditions
- Submit transcripts and any required supplementary materials
- Financial aid: follow institutional procedures for aid, scholarships, plus federal aid where applicable
Fees & Cost Estimate
Columbia publishes tuition and fees per academic year. Because many programs are creative/media based, students often incur additional costs for equipment, software, and production expenses. Scholarships, merit awards or departmental aid may offset part of the cost.
Strengths & Considerations
Strength: direct industry integration, opportunities to work on real media and production projects, strong connections to Chicago’s media scene.
Consideration: creative programs often require self-motivation, project portfolios, and may involve irregular hours (nights, weekends) for productions.
Comparative Summary & Decision Factors
Below is a side-by-side summary (approximate, illustrative) of key decision factors across these colleges:
| College / Institution | Neighborhood / Location | Highlighted Majors / Strengths | Application / Admission Notes | Approximate Cost Profile* | Unique Considerations / Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Chicago | Hyde Park, South Side | Liberal arts, economics, data science, STEM research | Common App + supplements, optional interview | High in-absent aid, grants available | Intense academic culture, strong undergrad research |
| Northwestern University | Evanston / Chicago presence | Journalism, business, engineering, law | Common App + specialized supplements | High, merit & need-based aid available | Strong link to professional fields |
| DePaul University | Lincoln Park & Loop | Business, computing, media, education | Rolling admissions, program portfolios | Moderate to high, scholarships offered | Direct access to Chicago internships |
| Loyola University Chicago | Rogers Park / Lakefront | Health sciences, business, social work | Common App or Loyola app | Moderate to high, grants & scholarships | Mission-driven learning, strong service focus |
| Illinois Tech (IIT) | Near South Side / Bronzeville | Engineering, CS, architecture | Program-based portfolios (for design) | Mid to upper five-figure (USD) + lab fees | Technical focus, industrial partnerships |
| School of the Art Institute of Chicago | Loop / cultural core | Fine arts, design, new media | Portfolio + creative statements | High (art school rates) + material costs | Embedded in art community, exhibition opportunities |
| Columbia College Chicago | South Loop | Film, media, theatre, journalism | Audition, portfolio, transcipts | Moderate to high, with creative program surcharges | Media/creative industry connected, project-heavy |
* “Approximate Cost Profile” refers to the full cost (tuition + fees + room & board + materials) before scholarship or aid. Always verify latest published costs.
When deciding among colleges, keep these additional questions in mind:
- Does the college require a portfolio or audition? Creative media, art and performing arts programs often require evidence of work; you’ll want time to prepare.
- How generous is the financial aid? A school may list high sticker prices, but if you get significant scholarships or institutional grants, your net cost could be much lower.
- What is the balance between breadth vs. depth? Do you want a liberal arts education with room to explore many fields, or a highly technical course load early on? Some institutions lean strongly one way.
- How embedded is the institution in the city? For internships, exhibitions, project-based work — being in or near downtown may offer advantages.
- How competitive are specific majors? Sometimes the general admission rate is moderate, but spots in certain majors (film, engineering, design) are more limited.
Tips for Applicants: Maximizing Your Chance & Fit
- Start early on portfolios / creative work — If your program requires audition or portfolio, begin collecting and refining work well ahead of deadlines.
- Visit campuses (virtually or in person) — Spending time walking the grounds, sitting for a lecture or talking with students gives you sense of culture that can’t be gleaned from brochures or rankings.
- Use net price calculators — Nearly all these colleges publish tools to estimate your net cost after aid. Run the numbers early to avoid surprises.
- Apply for departmental scholarships — Many majors (engineering, design, film) have separate scholarships or grants beyond general institutional aid.
- Highlight unique projects or experience — Whether research, startup, design work, film collaborations, or community engagement — use your essays and optional materials to show initiative and vision.
- Plan for additional costs — In creative or STEM programs, extra funds might go toward supplies, studio/lab fees, specialized software or equipment, travel for shows or conferences.
- Strong letters & diversity of recommendation — Especially for rigorous colleges, recommendations that speak to your intellectual curiosity, resilience, and fit with the program can make a difference.
- Backup plans & safety schools — Even among top colleges, acceptance is not guaranteed. Keep at least one or two strong but less competitive options in your list.
- Understand major-switch policies — Some universities allow you to switch into certain majors later; others require entering a limited cohort early. Know how flexible your intended program is.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s college offerings are extraordinary in variety and depth. Whether you’re drawn toward intense intellectual environments, technical and design-heavy curricula, or media and arts production, the city offers campuses suited to all those paths. Recognize that “best” is relative to you — consider location, program strength, campus culture, creative requirements, and affordability together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Chicago is home to top colleges like the University of Chicago, Northwestern University (Evanston/Chicago), DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, Illinois Institute of Technology, Columbia College Chicago, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Each offers unique programs and campus experiences.
Tuition fees vary widely. Elite research universities like UChicago and Northwestern can cost over $60,000 per year before financial aid, while career-oriented colleges like DePaul, Loyola, or Columbia College have tuition in the $30,000–$50,000 range. Financial aid and scholarships often lower the actual cost significantly.
Popular courses include Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, Law, Journalism, Fine Arts, Design, Social Sciences, and Liberal Arts. Chicago is also a hub for creative programs like Film, Theatre, and Visual Arts.
Most colleges in Chicago accept applications through the Common App or their own portals. Students typically submit transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and test scores (if required). Some programs, especially arts and design, may require portfolios or auditions. International students must also provide English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS).
Yes. While private universities can be expensive, many institutions offer scholarships, assistantships, and tuition discounts. Community colleges in the Chicago area also provide affordable options with pathways to transfer into four-year universities.
Downtown campuses (like DePaul’s Loop campus, SAIC, or Columbia College) give students immediate access to business, arts, and media industries. Neighborhood campuses (like UChicago in Hyde Park or Loyola in Rogers Park) provide a more traditional residential college feel while still being close to the city center.
Yes. Most major universities offer on-campus housing for freshmen and often upper-year students. Options range from residence halls to apartment-style housing. Some students also choose to live off-campus in neighborhoods close to the university.
International students on F-1 visas can work part-time on campus during their studies and may qualify for OPT (Optional Practical Training) or CPT (Curricular Practical Training) for internships and work opportunities after or during their program.