How to Get into UChicago: Admission Requirements and Tips

The University of Chicago (UChicago) is easily one of the most prestigious—and toughest to get into—schools in the U.S. Ranked #11 nationally, alongside Cornell, in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, UChicago draws some of the sharpest minds from all over the world. But with that prestige comes some serious competition. For the Class of 2027, UChicago’s acceptance rate was a tight 4.8%, showing just how selective the admissions process can be.

If you’re set on joining UChicago’s elite student community, solid grades alone won’t cut it. This guide will walk you through what it really takes to make the cut, from meeting GPA benchmarks and scoring well on tests to crafting an application that stands out. We’ll break down each step to give you a clear idea of what to focus on so you can position yourself as a strong contender.

• How Hard Is It to Get into UChicago?
• University of Chicago Admission Requirements
• UChicago GPA Requirements
• UChicago SAT Requirements
• UChicago ACT Scores
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into UChicago
• UChicago Application Deadline
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into UChicago?

Getting into the University of Chicago is next-level competitive. While we’re still waiting on the latest numbers, the acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 was only 4.8%. Out of about 38,800 hopefuls, only 1,849 were accepted.

UChicago’s acceptance rates have been consistently dipping over the past few years, making it harder and harder to snag a spot. Here’s a glimpse of the trend:

This downward trend means UChicago’s doors are getting narrower, and the competition fiercer. If you compare it to Ivy League schools, moreover, UChicago’s selectivity is right up there:

While UChicago isn’t technically in the Ivy League, its level of selectivity can easily go toe-to-toe with—and sometimes even outdo—those big-name schools. In fact, with an acceptance rate lower than Cornell’s and on par with Princeton and Columbia, it’s no wonder people often refer to UChicago as a “hidden Ivy.”

This level of competition really drives home the point: if you’re aiming for a spot at UChicago, a strong and well-rounded application is a must. You’re up against some of the brightest applicants out there, so every part of your application needs to shine.

University of Chicago Admission Requirements

When you’re gearing up to apply to the University of Chicago, your journey starts with submitting an application through either the Common App or the Coalition App. These platforms streamline the process, letting you upload all the necessary pieces and giving you a way to track your progress in UChicago’s system. You can see what’s been received and processed, and even make updates as needed.

Knowing the ins and outs of these requirements is key to cracking the code on how to get into UChicago. UChicago’s application has a few essential components:

• Transcript of records. This is where your grades and GPA shine. UChicago appreciates it when applicants challenge themselves with advanced classes like AP or IB.
• Letters of recommendation. You’ll need three recommendations—two from teachers and one from your school counselor.
• Essays. UChicago’s essays are where your creativity really gets to play. You’ll write one personal statement for the Common or Coalition App, and two supplemental essays specifically for UChicago.
• Extracurriculars. UChicago cares a lot about what you’re passionate about outside of class. They’re interested in the depth of your involvement and what your activities say about you as a person.
• Standardized test scores (optional). UChicago is proudly test-optional and follows a “No Harm” policy, which means that if you do submit SAT or ACT scores, they’ll only consider them if they work in your favor. So, if you’ve got a solid score, great! If not, it’s not a dealbreaker.
• Supplementary materials (optional). If you’ve got an impressive piece of artwork, a research project, or another creative endeavor, you can upload supplementary materials after you submit your main application. This is optional, but it can help you stand out if it showcases a unique talent.

Beyond these core requirements, UChicago uses a holistic review process, weighing factors like course rigor, personal qualities, and your unique strengths. They want to see that you’ve pushed yourself academically, developed talents, and shown good character.

Things like class rank, first-gen status, or work experience can also play a role, but demonstrated interest or interviews aren’t part of the equation at UChicago—they don’t track interest, and interviews aren’t on the table.

All these components fit together to give UChicago’s admissions team a full picture of each applicant. They’re looking beyond the numbers to see the person behind the application. By understanding what’s expected and why, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to make your application stand out at UChicago.

UChicago GPA Requirements

When it comes to getting into UChicago, there isn’t an official minimum GPA requirement, but let’s be real—having a high GPA is key. Since there’s no set cutoff, it’s up to you to measure your academic record against that of admitted students and aim to be in the top range.

Average GPA at UChicago

Based on UChicago’s most recent Common Data Set, the average GPA for admitted students is a weighted 4.32. This tells you two things. First, most applicants have near-perfect grades. Second, they’re tackling tough coursework like AP, IB, or honors classes. In fact, over 62% of these students achieved a spotless unweighted 4.0 GPA, which shows how much UChicago values both academic excellence and course rigor.

It’s also worth noting that 97% of admitted students were in the top 10% of their high school class. Basically, UChicago wants students who are academically driven and ready for the challenges ahead. If you’re aiming to get in, shooting for a GPA close to or above 4.32 is a good start.

What to do if your GPA is below average

Even if your grades aren’t perfect, you can make up for it by shining in other areas. Craft thoughtful essays, dive deep into extracurriculars that matter to you, and get strong letters of recommendation. If you’ve held leadership positions or achieved something notable in your passions, those can really boost your profile.

While it’s clear that a high GPA helps, UChicago isn’t just looking for book smarts. They want well-rounded students who are curious, passionate, and up for a challenge.

UChicago SAT Requirements

While UChicago doesn’t require SAT scores, it still considers them if you submit them. So, if you’re wondering whether to include your scores, it’s smart to know what’s competitive at this highly selective school.

UChicago average SAT score

For admitted students, the average SAT scores are high—really high. According to UChicago’s latest data, 97% of students score between 1400 and 1600 on the SAT composite. To give you an idea of where you should aim, here’s the breakdown of composite scores:

If you look at the individual sections, the numbers are similarly intense:

What’s the takeaway? Well, over 97% of students score between 700 and 800 on the EBRW, and over 98% hit that range in Math. So, if you’re planning to submit SAT scores, aiming for 1560 or above can definitely strengthen your application.

But even if your scores fall a bit short, that’s not necessarily a dealbreaker. UChicago considers the whole picture, and outstanding essays or impressive extracurriculars can make up for slightly lower scores.

Does UChicago require the SAT?

UChicago doesn’t require SAT or ACT scores, sticking firmly to its test-optional policy for all applicants. On top of that, their “No Harm” policy means that if you submit a score, it will only be used if it helps your application. If it could potentially hurt your chances, it’s not even considered.

So, should you submit your scores? If your SAT is at or above the 50th percentile of admitted students, it might be worth including to show off your academic chops. But if your score isn’t as strong, it’s probably best to focus on other parts of your application, like nailing those essays or showcasing the depth of your extracurriculars.

If you do decide to submit, UChicago makes it simple. You can send either official or self-reported scores through your application platform. And don’t stress about recalculating or superscoring—just submit them as you get them.

In the end, while SAT scores aren’t mandatory, they can still be an asset if they align with UChicago’s admitted student profile. Understanding the test-optional policy and “No Harm” approach is key to figuring out how to get into UChicago.

UChicago ACT Scores

UChicago doesn’t set a hard cutoff for ACT scores, but with tough competition, knowing what scores are typical can help you strategize. Like the SAT, submitting a strong ACT score can give your application a boost if it aligns with UChicago’s averages.

UChicago Average ACT

According to UChicago’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024, the ACT scores of admitted students are consistently high. Let’s break it down:

If you look at the breakdown by subject, the numbers stay pretty impressive:

More than 99% of admitted students scored between 30 and 36 overall, making it clear that high ACT scores are typical for competitive applicants. So, if you’re planning to submit ACT scores, aiming for a 35 or higher can help show you’re up to UChicago’s academic standards.

Does UChicago prefer the ACT or SAT?

UChicago treats both tests the same in its admissions process. The content is similar, so the choice between the two is yours.

However, historically, more applicants submit SAT scores. For the Class of 2027, around 46% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, while 30% submitted ACT scores. But this trend doesn’t mean you should lean one way or the other—it’s more about which test reflects your strengths.

With UChicago’s test-optional policy and its “No Harm” approach, you only want to submit a score if it strengthens your application. So if your scores are within or above the 50th percentile for either test, it’s worth including them to show your academic readiness. Otherwise, focus on other areas of your application to make a strong impression.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into UChicago

To stand out in UChicago’s highly competitive applicant pool, you need to strategically strengthen every aspect of your application. Here’s how to do just that:

1. Keep your GPA high.

UChicago doesn’t set a minimum GPA, but aiming close to their average of 4.32 will keep you in good company. Over 62% of admitted students have a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA, so you’ll want to hit high marks while also taking tough classes like AP, IB, or honors courses. UChicago pays close attention to the difficulty of the classes you’ve taken.

Managing your time well is crucial here. Break your study tasks into chunks and stick to a schedule so you don’t fall behind.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you’re struggling with a subject. Talking to your teachers or even forming study groups with friends can make a huge difference. Engage actively in class, too—that’s not only good for your grades but also helps you absorb complex topics more effectively.

2. Engage deeply in extracurricular activities.

UChicago looks for students who are not only strong academically but also actively engaged outside the classroom. The university values intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary learning, and community involvement. So, pick extracurriculars that genuinely interest you and align with those values. Avoid padding your resume; rather, pursue what truly excites you.

• If you’re passionate about science, consider participating in national programs like Regeneron ISEForSTS.
• If creative writing or humanities is more your style, look into UChicago’s Summer Immersion Program.
• For community-focused students, getting involved in local projects or initiatives that address social issues can help show your commitment to making a difference.

Leadership roles can also strengthen your application. Whether you’re leading a student club, serving as class president, or heading a volunteer project, demonstrating that you can work with others and take initiative speaks volumes. UChicago places a high value on extracurricular involvement, so showing depth in your activities is essential.

3. Write engaging essays.

To really stand out when applying to UChicago, your essays are where you get to shine beyond the numbers. UChicago requires one Common App essay or Coalition App essay, plus two school-specific supplemental essays.

Your personal statement, which goes to all the schools you’re applying to, should give admissions a look at the person behind the application. So, think of it as a way to share a story that reveals who you are.

Embrace storytelling. Instead of just saying you’re passionate about environmental science, for instance, maybe paint a picture of the time you saw a polluted river in your town and couldn’t ignore it. Talk about how that moment pushed you to start an awareness campaign at school or join a local green initiative. Ground your narrative in experiences to make it memorable and relatable.

UChicago supplemental essay prompts

UChicago’s supplemental essay questions are famous for being quirky, creative, and open-ended. Each year, current students and alumni suggest new topics, and you can definitely see their unique perspectives in the prompts.

For the 2024-25 application cycle, here is Question 1:

• 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 Question 2, choose one:

• We’re all familiar with green-eyed envy or feeling blue, but what about being “caught purple-handed”? Or “tickled orange”? Give an old color-infused expression a new hue and tell us what it represents.
• “Ah, but I was so much older then / I’m younger than that now” – Bob Dylan. In what ways do we become younger as we get older?
• Pluto, the demoted planet. Ophiuchus, the thirteenth Zodiac. Andy Murray, the fourth to tennis’s Big Three. Every grouping has something that doesn’t quite fit in. Tell us about a group and its unofficial member, why (or why not) should it be excluded?
• “Daddy-o,” “Far Out,” “Gnarly”: the list of slang terms goes on and on. Sadly, most of these aren’t so “fly” anymore—”as if!” Name an outdated slang from any decade or language that you’d bring back and explain why you totally “dig it.”
• How many piano tuners are there in Chicago? What is the total length of chalk used by UChicago professors in a year? How many pages of books are in the Regenstein Library? These questions are among a class of estimation problems named after University of Chicago physicist Enrico Fermi. Create your own Fermi estimation problem, give it your best answer, and show us how you got there.
• 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!

UChicago doesn’t have a strict word count, but shooting for around 500 words per prompt is a good idea. As you tackle these prompts, focus on expressing your unique way of thinking and embracing a bit of creativity. They’re not looking for a “correct” answer—they want to see how you think, your personality, and your willingness to take risks.

To get even deeper into strategies for these essays, you can check out our detailed guide, where we discuss each prompt and how to craft responses that show your best qualities.

4. Get strong letters of recommendation.

When applying to UChicago, you’ll need two teacher recommendations and one from your school counselor. These letters help convey your character, academic strengths, and whether you’re up for UChicago’s intense academic culture. And if you’re aiming for specific programs like math or science, it’s smart to ask a teacher in those areas to highlight your skills in those fields.

But to get great recommendations, you’ve got to start early. Show up in class—ask questions, participate, and show genuine interest in their subject. Go beyond the usual “I’m here for my grade” attitude and engage with the material.

Swing by during office hours or after class, whether to get advice on projects or just to chat about a topic you find interesting. Building a solid relationship with your teachers takes time, so don’t wait until your senior year to start connecting.

When you’re ready to ask for those letters, do it in person if you can. Be clear about why you’re asking them specifically and share any relevant details, like deadlines and how to submit the letter. You might also give them a quick summary of your achievements or a resume so they have all the context they need. This helps them write a letter that feels personal and detailed, rather than just a list of accomplishments.

And of course, remember to thank them, both when you ask and after they’ve written the letter—maybe with a simple note to show your appreciation.

5. Get strong SAT/ACT scores.

While UChicago is officially test-optional, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can still give your application an extra boost. According to their “No Harm” policy, only scores that help your case are taken into account. For the SAT, you’ll want to aim for at least 1560 (around the 75th percentile of admitted students), and for the ACT, a composite score of 35 or higher is ideal.

Achieving these scores takes strategy and practice. Start by taking full-length practice tests to figure out your weak areas, then focus on improving them. Resources like Khan Academy offer free, quality SAT prep, while other online platforms provide ACT-specific practice. You may also consider hiring a private tutor.

Develop solid test-taking habits, like managing your time during the exam and reading questions carefully. Make sure you choose test dates that won’t overwhelm you during busy school months.

UChicago Application Deadline

If you’re gearing up to apply to UChicago, keeping track of the deadlines is a must. The application officially opens on August 1, but the specific dates you need to watch depend on your chosen application plan. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

UChicago offers a variety of application plans to fit your needs: Early Action, Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision. Here’s what you should know about each:

• Early Action (EA). Non-binding, which means if you’re accepted, you don’t have to commit to attending. It’s a great choice if you want an early response without locking yourself into a decision. Submit by November 1, and you’ll hear back by mid-December.
• Early Decision I (ED I) & Early Decision II (ED II). Both are binding, which means if you’re accepted, you’re committed to enrolling at UChicago. ED I applications are due on November 1, and you’ll hear back by mid-December. ED II has a later deadline of January 6, with notifications sent out in mid-February. These plans are ideal if UChicago is your top choice and you’re ready to commit.
• Regular Decision (RD). This plan gives you the most flexibility, with a January 6 deadline and decisions announced in late March. It’s a good option if you want more time to fine-tune your application or include your first-semester senior grades.

Depending on your application plan, UChicago offers a few different outcomes: admitted, deferred, waitlisted, or denied.

• Deferred. If you apply through EA or ED I and aren’t accepted outright, you might be deferred. This means your application will be reconsidered during the RD round. While deferral doesn’t guarantee admission later, it gives you a second shot—use this time to update UChicago with improved grades, awards, or new accomplishments to strengthen your application.
• Waitlisted. If you’re not admitted through RD, you might be placed on the waitlist. Being waitlisted means UChicago is interested in your application but doesn’t have space to offer you admission immediately. Openings might come up as admitted students make their final decisions, so you could still get in later. If you’re on the waitlist, stay proactive by submitting a letter of continued interest to show your commitment to the school.

Deferrals and waitlists can be disheartening, but they aren’t the end of the road. They’re opportunities to keep pushing forward and show UChicago why you’re a great fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the acceptance rate for the University of Chicago?

For the Class of 2027, UChicago’s acceptance rate was a slim 4.8%. This level of selectivity puts UChicago right up there with some of the most competitive schools in the country, so landing a spot means you’re in pretty exclusive company.

2. Is UChicago test-optional?

Yes, UChicago is test-optional. Meaning, you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores if you think other parts of your application tell your story better. They follow a “No Harm” policy—basically, if your scores help, great! If not, they won’t be held against you.

3. What GPA do you need to get into UChicago?

There’s no strict minimum GPA, but the average GPA for admitted students hovers around a weighted 4.32. In plain terms, most accepted students not only have stellar grades but have also challenged themselves with tough courses like AP or IB. To give you an idea, over 62% of those admitted had a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA, and 97% were in the top 10% of their class.

4. What major is UChicago known for?

UChicago has a reputation for being a powerhouse in Economics, Political Science, and Biological Sciences. The Chicago School of Economics, in particular, has produced several Nobel Prize winners. UChicago also shines in humanities fields like Philosophy and English, and it’s famous for its interdisciplinary approach.

5. How much is UChicago tuition?

For the 2024-2025 school year, UChicago’s tuition is set at $67,446. Factor in housing, meal plans, and other fees, and the total cost of attendance climbs to about $93,633. It’s a hefty price tag, but UChicago offers solid financial aid to make sure the costs don’t shut the door on talented students from all backgrounds.

Takeaways

When thinking about how to get into UChicago, keep these five key points in mind:

• With an acceptance rate of just 4.8% for the Class of 2027, UChicago is one of the most selective schools in the country.
• Aim for an average GPA of 4.32 or higher, and don’t shy away from challenging courses. UChicago wants to see that you can handle academic rigor, so AP, IB, or honors classes are a must.
• While UChicago is test-optional, strong scores can still give your application a boost. If you’re submitting, aim for the 75th percentile with an SAT score around 1560 or an ACT score of 35.
• UChicago cares about who you are beyond the numbers. Focus on writing standout essays, showing leadership in your extracurriculars, and getting solid recommendation letters.
• Working with a college admissions consultant can help refine your application strategy and improve your chances of getting into UChicago.