How To Get Into The University Of Chicago: A Complete Guide

Picture of a white and orange building located on the University of Chicago campus
June 6, 2023
Contents


”Rohan

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/4/23

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. It is a consistently high-ranking school 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. 

University of Chicago Admissions Requirements

UChicago Admissions Stats

There is no minimum GPA or test score requirement for University of Chicago admissions. Its admission process is holistic and test-optional. UChicago realizes that standardized testing is not a fool-proof way of determining one’s potential. 

However, recent admissions statistics can give you an idea of where you stand in comparison:

University of Chicago SAT Requirements

The recent class profile notes how the middle 50% of admitted applicants had SAT scores ranging from 1510 to 1560. 

Turquoise bubble outlining the average SAT score of UChicago's admitted students

The overall score range for admitted students was 1020-1600 for the SAT.

University of Chicago ACT Requirements 

While the college has no official ACT requirements, the middle 50% of admitted students had ACT composite scores that ranged from 34 to 35. The overall score range for admitted students was 20 to 36 for the ACT. 

University of Chicago GPA Requirements

The GPA requirements for the University of Chicago are not specified, but UChicago’s average GPA is 4.48. So, achieving an unweighted GPA of at least 3.5 in challenging classes will give you the best chance at admission.

How to Apply to the University of Chicago

Applying to the University of Chicago involves preparation and planning. Here, we will discuss the steps of the application. 

University of Chicago Application Process

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
  • 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!

University of Chicago Application Deadlines

Your University of Chicago application deadline will depend on which round of applications you choose: 

  • 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 deadline for Early Action is November 1st
  • Early Decision I 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. The deadline to apply for Early Decision I is November 1st
  • Early Decision II has the same binding admissions aspect as Early Decision II, but the deadlines for this path are later in the year. The deadline to apply for Early Decision II is January 4th
  • Regular Decision is a path that is non-binding, making it an excellent choice for students that want to take their time. You’ll have more time to complete the application and to compare offers from other schools. The deadline to apply for Regular Decision is January 4th

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

University of Chicago Supplemental Essays

Tips for writing a stellar Uchicago essay

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! 

UChicago Essay Prompts

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 2022-2023 UChicago supplemental essay prompts:

Option 1

“Was it a cat I saw? Yo-no-na-ka, ho-ka-ho-ka na-no-yo (Japanese for “the world is a warm place”). Może jutro ta dama da tortu jeżom (Polish for “maybe tomorrow that lady will give a cake to the hedgehogs”). Share a palindrome in any language, and give it a backstory.”
- Inspired by Leah Beach, Class of 2026, Lib Gray SB ’12, and Agnes Mazur AB ‘09

Option 2

“What advice would a wisdom tooth have?”
–Inspired by Melody Dias, Class of 2025

Option 3

“You are on an expedition to found a colony on Mars, when from a nearby crater, a group of Martians suddenly emerges. They seem eager to communicate, but they're the impatient kind and demand you represent the human race in one song, image, memory, proof, or other idea. What do you share with them to show that humanity is worth their time?”
—Inspired by Alexander Hastings, Class of 2023, and Olivia Okun-Dubitsky, Class of 2026

Option 4

“UChicago has been affiliated with over 90 Nobel laureates. But, why should economics, physics, and peace get all the glory? You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific category, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment.”
—Inspired by Isabel Alvarez, Class of 2026

Option 5

“Genghis Khan with an F1 race car. George Washington with a SuperSoaker. Emperor Nero with a toaster. Leonardo da Vinci with a Furby. If you could give any historical figure any piece of technology, who and what would it be, and why do you think they’d work so well together?”
-Inspired by Braden Hajer, Class of 2025

Option 6

“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

FAQs: How to Get Into the University of Chicago 

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

1. How Hard is it to Get into the University of Chicago? 

The University of Chicago's acceptance rate is only 5%, which means that around 95% of applicants will not get accepted. However, despite this extremely low acceptance rate, with good grades, strong essays, and solid recommendations, you can give yourself a good chance of getting in. 

2. What Does the University of Chicago Look For in Applicants?

The University of Chicago places a heavy interest in inquiry, debate, and critical thought, and then using these values to make impactful changes to the world. If you align with these goals and values, you will stand out to the UChicago admissions committee.

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

3. 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. 

4. 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. 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. There is no minimum GPA for admission. 

5. 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. 

6. 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.

Final Thoughts

The University of Chicago is a diverse, prestigious school known to produce 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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University of Chicago Admissions RequirementsHow to Apply to the University of ChicagoUniversity of Chicago Application DeadlinesUniversity of Chicago Supplemental EssaysFAQs: How to Get Into the University of Chicago


”Rohan

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/4/23

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. It is a consistently high-ranking school 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. 

Book a Free 30 min Call

University of Chicago Admissions Requirements

UChicago Admissions Stats

There is no minimum GPA or test score requirement for University of Chicago admissions. Its admission process is holistic and test-optional. UChicago realizes that standardized testing is not a fool-proof way of determining one’s potential. 

However, recent admissions statistics can give you an idea of where you stand in comparison:

University of Chicago SAT Requirements

The recent class profile notes how the middle 50% of admitted applicants had SAT scores ranging from 1510 to 1560. 

Turquoise bubble outlining the average SAT score of UChicago's admitted students

The overall score range for admitted students was 1020-1600 for the SAT.

University of Chicago ACT Requirements 

While the college has no official ACT requirements, the middle 50% of admitted students had ACT composite scores that ranged from 34 to 35. The overall score range for admitted students was 20 to 36 for the ACT. 

University of Chicago GPA Requirements

The GPA requirements for the University of Chicago are not specified, but UChicago’s average GPA is 4.48. So, achieving an unweighted GPA of at least 3.5 in challenging classes will give you the best chance at admission.

How to Apply to the University of Chicago

Applying to the University of Chicago involves preparation and planning. Here, we will discuss the steps of the application. 

University of Chicago Application Process

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

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

University of Chicago Application Deadlines

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 timeframe rather than a specific date. The student reply due date is when you’ll have to accept or turn down the offer of admission. 

University of Chicago Supplemental Essays

Tips for writing a stellar Uchicago essay

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! 

UChicago Essay Prompts

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 2022-2023 UChicago supplemental essay prompts:

Option 1

“Was it a cat I saw? Yo-no-na-ka, ho-ka-ho-ka na-no-yo (Japanese for “the world is a warm place”). Może jutro ta dama da tortu jeżom (Polish for “maybe tomorrow that lady will give a cake to the hedgehogs”). Share a palindrome in any language, and give it a backstory.”
- Inspired by Leah Beach, Class of 2026, Lib Gray SB ’12, and Agnes Mazur AB ‘09

Option 2

“What advice would a wisdom tooth have?”
–Inspired by Melody Dias, Class of 2025

Option 3

“You are on an expedition to found a colony on Mars, when from a nearby crater, a group of Martians suddenly emerges. They seem eager to communicate, but they're the impatient kind and demand you represent the human race in one song, image, memory, proof, or other idea. What do you share with them to show that humanity is worth their time?”
—Inspired by Alexander Hastings, Class of 2023, and Olivia Okun-Dubitsky, Class of 2026

Option 4

“UChicago has been affiliated with over 90 Nobel laureates. But, why should economics, physics, and peace get all the glory? You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific category, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment.”
—Inspired by Isabel Alvarez, Class of 2026

Option 5

“Genghis Khan with an F1 race car. George Washington with a SuperSoaker. Emperor Nero with a toaster. Leonardo da Vinci with a Furby. If you could give any historical figure any piece of technology, who and what would it be, and why do you think they’d work so well together?”
-Inspired by Braden Hajer, Class of 2025

Option 6

“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

FAQs: How to Get Into the University of Chicago 

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

1. How Hard is it to Get into the University of Chicago? 

The University of Chicago's acceptance rate is only 5%, which means that around 95% of applicants will not get accepted. However, despite this extremely low acceptance rate, with good grades, strong essays, and solid recommendations, you can give yourself a good chance of getting in. 

2. What Does the University of Chicago Look For in Applicants?

The University of Chicago places a heavy interest in inquiry, debate, and critical thought, and then using these values to make impactful changes to the world. If you align with these goals and values, you will stand out to the UChicago admissions committee.

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

3. 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. 

4. 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. 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. There is no minimum GPA for admission. 

5. 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. 

6. 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.

Final Thoughts

The University of Chicago is a diverse, prestigious school known to produce 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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