Best Universities in Chicago: Fees, Courses & Ranking for 2025

Did you know Chicago has ranked #44 as the Best Student City by QS Ranking?

Chicago is one of the best cities to study in the USA and is a renowned global hub for education; it attracts international students with its blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and dynamic student life. 

Known for its prestigious institutions, such as the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, the city offers top-tier programs in various fields. 

Chicago's rich cultural scene, vibrant neighbourhoods, and numerous career opportunities make it an ideal destination for higher education. 

The city is also celebrated for its innovation in technology, business, and the arts, providing students with a well-rounded, enriching experience.

Let’s look at the universities in Chicago in detail:

Why Study in Chicago?

Chicago is an ideal study destination due to its strong academic reputation, vibrant cultural experience, and abundant career opportunities. 

Chicago's rich cultural diversity and dynamic urban environment enrich student life, while its robust job market ensures excellent career prospects for graduates.

Here are 5 Reasons to Study in Chicago:

• Prestigious Universities:
  • University of Chicago: Ranked 21st in the QS World Rankings, renowned for its programs in economics, law, and sociology.
  • Northwestern University: Ranked 50th in the QS World Rankings, offers top programs in journalism, business, and engineering.
  • Illinois Institute of Technology: Known for its strong engineering and technology programs.
• Cultural Diversity:
  • Chicago hosts over 77 distinct community areas, each with its own cultural identity.
  • Annual events like the Chicago Cultural Festival and Taste of Chicago celebrate the city's diversity.
  • Neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Pilsen offer rich cultural experiences.
• Career Opportunities:
  • Chicago is home to the headquarters of major corporations such as Boeing, McDonald's, and United Airlines.
  • The city's financial district, LaSalle Street, offers numerous opportunities in finance and banking.
  • The Chicago Tech Hub supports a growing tech industry with companies like Groupon and Grubhub.
• Innovative Programs:
  • University of Chicago Booth School of Business: Known for its rigorous MBA program.
  • Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism: Offers cutting-edge programs in media innovation and integrated marketing communications.
  • Illinois Institute of Technology’s College of Architecture: Provides forward-thinking architecture and design programs.
• Vibrant City Life:
  • Iconic landmarks include the Willis Tower, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
  • The city’s theatre district hosts numerous performances, including the Chicago Theatre and Broadway in Chicago.
  • Chicago's sports teams, like the Cubs, Bulls, and Blackhawks, offer an exciting sports culture.

Which are the Top Universities in Chicago?

Chicago's educational landscape is distinguished by its globally ranked universities, known for their academic excellence and significant research contributions. 

These institutions attract students worldwide and offer a diverse and enriching academic environment.

Here’s a look at the top universities in Chicago for international students:

Note: The above costs are approximate and fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

What are the Top Courses in Chicago?

Chicago offers highly sought-after courses that align with the city’s academic strengths and industry demands. 

Many students are drawn to Chicago for educational programs that offer advanced knowledge, practical experience, and valuable industry ties, all of which improve their job prospects in a challenging employment landscape.

Undergraduate programs usually last 3-4 years, while postgraduate programs typically last 1-2 years, varying depending on the specific study area.

Here are the top 5 courses available in Chicago:

What are the Admission Requirements in Chicago?

Chicago offers a range of highly sought-after courses that reflect the city’s academic strengths and industry demands.

With prestigious universities providing exceptional undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs, students can gain valuable skills in fields like:

• Technology
• Business
• Humanities

Here's a breakdown of the application requirements:

General Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A U.S. bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Work Experience: Some programs may prefer or require professional work experience.
• English Proficiency: For international students, proof of English language proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or other accepted exams.

Document Requirements:

• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previously attended universities.
• GMAT or GRE Scores: Many programs require these standardised test scores, but some may waive them based on work experience or academic performance.
  • GMAT: 650+
  • GRE: 307+
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters from academic or professional recommends.
• Resume or CV: Outlining academic and professional experience.
• Essays or Personal Statements: Often required to express career goals and fit with the program.

Visa Requirements:

• F-1 Student Visa: Required for international students.
• I-20 Form: Issued by the university, necessary for visa application.
• Proof of Financial Support: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Work Permit (Optional Practical Training - OPT):

• Post-Completion OPT: Allows up to one year of post-graduation work authorisation in a field related to the degree.
• STEM OPT Extension: Eligible students in STEM fields may qualify for an additional 24 months of work authorisation.
• Specific eligibility criteria and application procedures apply.

What is the Cost of Studying in Chicago?

Chicago offers a range of educational opportunities with varying tuition fees across different programs. 

Here's an overview of the costs associated with undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in the city.

Note: The above costs are approximate and fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

What is the Cost of Living in Chicago?

Chicago is known for its diverse neighbourhoods and vibrant city life, making it an attractive destination for international students. 

Here are the monthly expected living expenses.

Note: The above costs are approximate and fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

What are the Top Jobs in Chicago?

Chicago offers a dynamic job market for international graduates with robust opportunities across key industries. The city is known for its diverse economy, competitive salaries, and supportive work visa policies.

Here’s a similar overview of job sectors, salary ranges, and top recruiters in Chicago:

Note: The above costs are approximate and fluctuate based on changing currency exchange rates.

Which are the Top Recruiters in Chicago?

Here are the top recruiters for Chicago:

• Boeing: A leader in the aerospace industry, offering roles in engineering, production, and business operations.
• United Airlines: A key player in the aviation industry, providing careers in operations, logistics, and technology.
• AbbVie: A major pharmaceutical company with research, healthcare, and biotechnology opportunities.
• McDonald’s: A global fast-food chain headquartered in Chicago with management, marketing, and supply chain roles.
• Blue Cross Blue Shield: A leading healthcare insurance provider with roles in healthcare administration, customer support, and data analysis.