The University of Chicago, a leading private research university in Illinois, is known for its rigorous academic atmosphere and excellent educational quality. Since its founding in 1890, it has been a coveted university for students from all over the world. In recent years, however, the University of Chicago acceptance rate has continued to decline, reflecting not only the school’s rising global appeal but also the fierce competition applicants face.
For applicants, this change means they need to work harder to improve their overall qualities, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and more. At the same time, for the university, the low acceptance rate also means that more sophisticated, efficient admissions strategies are needed to attract and select the best students. This article will delve into the University of Chicago’s current acceptance rate, how to apply to the University of Chicago, and other information to provide references for future applicants.
UChicago Acceptance Rate - Class of 2028
As the world pays increasing attention to higher education and the recognition of many American colleges and universities grows, the number of applicants to the University of Chicago has increased year by year, reaching more than 43,000 for the class of 2028. But the UChicago acceptance rate is getting lower and lower, almost in line with Ivy League schools. Such fierce competition shows that University of Chicago has finally stood out from other American universities and become the new hot destination for students from all over the world.
University of Chicago acceptance rate has remained around 4-5% in recent years, which is an extremely low percentage. Despite this low acceptance rate, the number of applicants to the University of Chicago continues to increase each year.
In fact, there are several clues to the University of Chicago’s popularity.
- It is consistently one of the top universities in the USA, focusing on a wide range of research fields, and is known for producing Nobel Prize winners. By now, the University of Chicago will have produced 101 Nobel laureates, making it the fifth-largest university in the world to have done so.
- University of Chicago is located in Chicago, Illinois, a hub in the Midwest of the United States. The Chicago metropolitan area, which consists of the city and its suburbs, is the third largest metropolitan area in the United States, just after New York and Los Angeles. Such a modern and developed area provides excellent internship and job opportunities for students studying here.
As a result, the acceptance rate of University of Chicago is getting lower and lower, but it can not stop students’ enthusiasm to choose this prestigious university.
Trends in Acceptance Rate at University of Chicago
University of Chicago has not released the official acceptance rate for the class of 2028 yet. However, according to the official statistics, including numbers of applications and accepted students, it is estimated that University of Chicago acceptance rate for class of 2028 is around 4%. To know more about trends in University of Chicago admissions, please look at the table below.
| Years | Overall Applications Accepted | Overall Applications Received | Overall Acceptance Rates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class of 2028 | 1,955 | 43,612 | about 4.5% |
| Class of 2027 | 1,849 | 38,800 | 4.78% |
| Class of 2026 | 2,041 | 37,522 | 5.44% |
| Class of 2025 | 2,460 | 37,977 | 6.48% |
| Class of 2024 | 2,511 | 34,372 | 7.31% |
| Class of 2023 | 2,065 | 34,900 | 5.92% |
| Class of 2022 | 2,329 | 32,291 | 7.21% |
| Class of 2021 | 2,419 | 27,694 | 8.73% |
| Class of 2020 | 2,499 | 31,484 | 7.94% |
As shown in the table above, the UChicago admission rate has been declining year by year, and competition for students is becoming increasiyengly fierce. However, the number of applicants to the University of Chicago continues to increase, reaching more than 43,000 for the class of 2028. This trend clearly reflects the University of Chicago’s growing international recognition and students’ increasing emphasis on higher education.
University of Chicago Early Decision Acceptance Rate
The University of Chicago has two rounds of early decisions. For the current application, the Early Decision I due date is November 3, and the Early Decision II due date is January 5. Many students make an early decision each year, but it’s essential to understand the requirements so they can plan better for the future. Generally, the University of Chicago has a relatively higher early decision acceptance rate and relatively less competitive pressure. If the University of Chicago is your dream school, please take advantage of early decision to start preparing for the application early. But if you still have second thoughts, be careful to apply. Once you accept this offer, you must reject any other offers.
Acceptance Rate of Transfer to University of Chicago
University of Chicago also welcomes transfer students with diverse backgrounds to build a diverse, world-class university. UChicago offers two transfer programs for transfer students: transfer early decision and transfer rolling decision. Whichever you choose, your application will go through a rigorous review. Therefore, please prepare your transfer application for admission and supplement essays, high school and college transcripts, and two teachers in advance evaluations, etc. Transfer students must have attended the University of Chicago for at least two academic years (six quarters) and completed core curriculum, along with more than half of their major requirements bearing UChicago course numbers.
UChicago Admissions: Academic Requirements
In recent years, the U of Chicago acceptance rate has remained at 4-5%. This acceptance rate is as low as that of Ivy League universities, so it is very challenging to get into the University of Chicago. Your test scores are undoubtedly essential factors for UChicago to consider when reviewing your application. For your reference, about 97% admitted students were in the top 10% of their high school class. So what are the requirements for scores on various tests at the University of Chicago?
GPA Requirements
Actually, the University of Chicago has no minimum GPA requirement, and GPA is not the sole standard, given the many grading systems around the world. However, the University of Chicago is a renowned university in the United States, and all applicants are highly qualified, so the higher the GPA, the greater the likelihood of receiving an offer. Most students who apply to the University of Chicago have a 4.0 GPA or higher; only a small number have a GPA below 3.5. According to statistics, 63% of enrolled first-year students in the class of 2027 had a GPA of 4.0 or above, and 27% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99. Only about 10% of students had a GPA below 3.74.
SAT / ACT Requirements
Although the University of Chicago does not require SAT or ACT scores, we provide the latest data for your reference. For those who submitted their SAT transcripts, among the most recent class of 2027, the middle 50% SAT scores range from 1510 to 1560, and the middle 50% ACT scores range from 34 to 35.
How to Get Into University of Chicago?
Founded in 1890, the University of Chicago is one of the leading private research universities in the United States. In the 2026 US News Best National Universities rankings, the University of Chicago is ranked 6th. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, it is ranked 13th. Therefore, the University of Chicago is a top international university with high global recognition. Despite the University of Chicago’s low acceptance rate, many students still choose this school. So, how do you apply to the University of Chicago?
Application Checklist
Required Materials:
- Application for Admission and Supplement Essays
- Application Fee or Automatic Fee Waiver
- Secondary School Report and Transcript
- Two Teacher Evaluations
- Midyear Report
- No Harm Testing Policy
Optional Materials:
- Financial Aid Application
- Recommended Video Profile
- Supplemental Materials: Optional Art, Creative, Research, or Other Supplements
2025-2026 Timelines
| Early Action | Early Decision I | Early Decision II | Regular Decision | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Due Date | November 3 | November 3 | January 5 | January 5 |
| Admission Decision Release Date | Mid-December | Mid-December | Mid-February | Late March |
| Student Reply Due Date | May 1 | Mid-January | Mid-March | May 1 |
2025-2026 Transfer Timelines
| Transfer Early Decision | Transfer Rolling Decision | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Due Date | March 1 | Priority Application Due Date | March 30 / June 1 (depending on year or availability) |
| Admission Decision Release Date | Late March (late afternoon) | Admission Decision Release Date | Decisions released on a rolling basis starting in early May, continuing through the summer |
| Transfer Rolling Application Closes | June 1 | ||
| Reply Due Date | Late April | Reply Due Date | June 1 |
How Does University of Chicago Rate Applicants?
With such a low acceptance rate, how does the University of Chicago stand out among so many applicants? The University of Chicago is looking for students with research ability and academic passion. How can you showcase your strengths in your application? Below is a list of points that the University of Chicago will focus on when reviewing applications.
- Intelligence Level: As a top university, the University of Chicago’s first consideration is, of course, your intelligence level. So, how do you reflect this factor in your application? You’d better submit an excellent high school transcript. The higher your GPA, the more your resume will stand out. Although you don’t need to take AP courses to apply to the University of Chicago, if you can get excellent grades in these courses, it will make your application more outstanding. The solid knowledge base will make your future university studies much easier.
- Research Ability: You should understand that university study requires not only a rigorous learning attitude, but also strong research ability. Even if you pass all the exams, you lack research ability, so you will not stand out among so many applications. Therefore, please include your high school research activities in your application. It is best to attach several letters of recommendation from teachers or researchers to demonstrate your research ability.
- Academic enthusiasm: How can I show my academic enthusiasm in my application? The most important thing is your paperwork. A well-structured, concise document is a good indication of your writing skills. In the essay, mention your passion for academic research and your curiosity about a particular field. This specific expression will show the faculty at the University of Chicago that you are sincere.
- Adaptive Ability: Moving from high school to college is a significant life transition for most students. You may need to move to a new environment. Moreover, the University of Chicago is an international institution; 18% students are from other countries. Here, you are likely to meet students from all over the world with different backgrounds. Then, having strong adaptability becomes an essential consideration for schools. You are more likely to be accepted to the University of Chicago if you can prove you participated in a variety of activities during high school. These activities can demonstrate your excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Final Thoughts on University of Chicago Admissions
An in-depth analysis of the University of Chicago acceptance rate shows that competition for admission to this top university is becoming increasingly fierce. With an acceptance rate of around 4.5%, it has become one of the most challenging universities in the world to get into. Its low acceptance rate suggests that future applicants should focus on improving their academic performance and soft skills to meet the University of Chicago’s rigorous selection criteria. We have good reason to believe that the University of Chicago will continue to attract excellent students worldwide thanks to its outstanding academic strength and educational quality. However, balancing the rigor of selection with the universality of education will remain a problem the University of Chicago needs to continue to explore and address.
FAQ
What is the UChicago acceptance rate?
In recent years, the University of Chicago acceptance rate has remained around 4-5%. This admission rate is very low, so it is really tough to be accepted by this prestigious university. However, the University of Chicago’s early decision acceptance rate is relatively higher. Thus, you can consider applying to UChicago through early decision.
Should I apply to University of Chicago?
If your high school transcripts are excellent and you have a rich social and academic experience, your chances of being accepted by University of Chicago will go up. In addition, please plan ahead. Write good essays, and take the University of Chicago’s highly valued exams. You’d better contact the teacher in advance to write a valuable recommendation for you.
What courses do you need to take to get into the University of Chicago?
If you want to get into University of Chicago, you’ll need to plan in advance, including what classes you’ll take in high school. Many top colleges have requirements or preferences for what courses applicants should take in high school. University of Chicago expects students to take many challenging courses. These courses may include:
- 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)
Can I get into University of Chicago with a 3.5 GPA?
Yes, you can get into the University of Chicago with a 3.5 GPA. There is no GPA requirement for the University of Chicago. However, based on past GPA data, most accepted students have a GPA above 4.0, and only about 10% have a GPA below 3.74. Therefore, it is recommended that you work hard to improve your GPA and increase your chances of admission.
Is University of Chicago an Ivy League school?
No, the University of Chicago is not an Ivy League school. But in recent years, the University of Chicago has ranked higher than some Ivy League schools. In the 2026 US News Best National Universities rankings, the University of Chicago is ranked 11th. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, it is ranked 13th.
What is the cost of living for UChicago undergraduates?
The University of Chicago is located in Chicago, where the cost of living is relatively high. So, how much does it cost to study at the University of Chicago? The table below lists the cost of attendance for 2025-2026.
| On-Campus | Commuter | Off-Campus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $71,325 | $71,325 | $71,325 |
| Student Services Fee | $1,623 | $1,623 | $1,623 |
| UPASS Fee | $318 | $318 | $318 |
| Food & Housing (or Maintenance Allowance) | $20,835 | $7,980 (maintenance allowance) | $17,502 |
| Books & Course Materials | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 |
| Misc. Personal Expenses | $1,950 | $1,950 | $1,950 |
| Travel | $450 | $450 | $450 |
| TOTAL | $98,310 | $85,446 | $94,968 |
