How to Get Into University of Chicago
Complete guide to admission requirements, essays, deadlines, and tips for success
Quick Overview
University of Chicago is one of the most selective universities in the United States, with an acceptance rate of 5.4%. Founded in 1890, the university is located in Chicago, Illinois and currently enrolls ~7,500 undergraduates.
Getting into University of Chicago requires exceptional academic performance, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and compelling essays that demonstrate your unique perspective and potential for contribution to the university community.
Academic Requirements
GPA Requirements
Most successful applicants have a GPA in this range or higher
Test Scores
Remember: While these statistics provide guidance, University of Chicago uses holistic admissions. Strong essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars can significantly impact your application.
Application Essays
Key Essay Prompts:
- "How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future?"
Essay Tips: Focus on authenticity and specific examples. Show, don't tell your story. Connect your experiences to your potential contributions at University of Chicago.
Application Deadlines
Tips for Success
- Showcase your intellectual curiosity and love of learning for its own sake
- Demonstrate analytical thinking and questioning mindset
- Show familiarity with UChicago's academic rigor and philosophy
- Emphasize your interest in interdisciplinary learning
- Connect your academic interests to the Core Curriculum
- Show how you'll contribute to intellectual discourse on campus
What Makes a Strong Applicant
Quick Links
Popular Majors
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Biology
- Philosophy
Notable Alumni
- Barack Obama (US President)
- Milton Friedman (Economist)
- Susan Sontag (Writer)
- Carl Sagan (Astronomer)
- Roger Ebert (Film critic)
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Start Your JourneyFrequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at University of Chicago?
University of Chicago has an acceptance rate of 5.4%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States. This means that for every 100 applications, only about 5 are accepted.
What GPA do you need for University of Chicago?
Most successful applicants to University of Chicago have a 4.0+ (weighted). However, University of Chicago uses holistic admissions, meaning they consider all aspects of your application including essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations.
What SAT scores do you need for University of Chicago?
The middle 50% SAT range for University of Chicago is 1460-1570. The university is currently test-optional, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit test scores.
When are University of Chicago application deadlines?
Application deadlines for University of Chicago are: Early Decision: November 15, Early Action: November 15, Regular Decision: January 2. Make sure to submit all materials before these dates.
What makes a strong applicant to University of Chicago?
Strong University of Chicago applicants typically demonstrate intellectual curiosity and love of learning, strong analytical and critical thinking skills, passion for rigorous academic engagement, among other qualities. The university values students who will contribute meaningfully to their community.