University of Chicago

Entire fields of study such as ecology and sociology were established by UChicago, so it’s hardly surprising that the college is home to some of the most venerated academic programs in the world.

The university grants Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in 51 academic majors and 33 minors. These are divided into five academic divisions: the Biological Sciences Collegiate Division, the Physical Sciences Collegiate Division, the Social Sciences Collegiate Division, the Humanities Collegiate Division, and the New Collegiate Division. 

Undergraduates can choose to study anything from astrophysics to molecular engineering, as well as a range of liberal arts, social sciences, anthropology, music, and language-focused degrees. 

About 60 per cent of undergraduate students live on campus, in one of seven residence halls. These are divided into Harry Potter-esque “houses”, communities of affiliated faculty, staff, and students who all live, eat, debate, and play together. In total, there are 38 houses with a maximum of 105 students in each one. Each house also has its own unique traditions and customs, something which the university says is intended to encourage residents to feel pride in where they live.

Undergraduate accommodation and the communities within it are intended to provide important social and intellectual outlets where spontaneous conversation and structured programming enrich the academic pursuits of students and faculty. 

As is to be expected with a top school, UChicago is highly selective, with only eight percent of applicants accepted. Candidates apply to the undergraduate college, which includes all of majors, minors, and programs of study. UChicago accepts the Coalition or Common Application. Both ask for basic information about your background, academic profile, extracurricular activities, as well as a brief personal statement. You will also need to submit a secondary school report and transcript; two teacher evaluations; standardized test scores; and an application fee of US$75. 

On top of this, you must also tackle the supplementary essay, which contains questions that are designed to be provocative and thought-provoking. International candidates must also submit English language proficiency test scores. Fees and tuition for applicants living outside the state of Illinois are US$50,193 per academic year. 

Fortunately, the University of Chicago offers financial aid that can contribute up to 100 per cent of a family’s demonstrated need, as well as merit scholarships. Thanks to the university’s No Barriers program, most students graduate debt-free – no matter what their chosen major or background prior to enrolment.