UChicago Acceptance Rate: Admissions Statistics

The University of Chicago (UChicago) is one of the most prestigious and competitive schools in the U.S., and the numbers back that up. For the Class of 2028, UChicago’s acceptance rate hit a historic low of 4.5%. Getting in is harder than ever, putting it ahead of even some Ivy League schools when it comes to exclusivity.

So, what does that 4.5% really mean? How does it stack up against other top universities? And more importantly, what does it take to snag a spot at UChicago? Read on, for this guide breaks it all down for you.

• What Is UChicago’s Acceptance Rate?
• UChicago Acceptance Rate Trends
• UChicago Regular Decision Acceptance Rate
• UChicago Early Action Acceptance Rate
• UChicago Early Decision Acceptance Rate
• How to Get Accepted into UChicago
• UChicago Transfer Acceptance Rate
• UChicago Waitlist Acceptance Rate
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is UChicago’s Acceptance Rate?

For the Class of 2028, UChicago received 43,612 applications and admitted only 1,955 students. That puts the UChicago acceptance rate at 4.5%, a slight dip from the previous year’s 4.8%. This is the lowest in UChicago’s history.

For the Class of 2028, here’s the overall picture:

Now, while UChicago doesn’t release exact acceptance rates for Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED I and II), or Regular Decision (RD), there’s a trend you can count on: early applicants tend to have slightly better odds. That said, even if you apply early, it’s still a high-stakes game.

Regular Decision rates, on the other hand, are usually lower, so the competition there is even fiercer.

But let’s be real. No matter when you apply, UChicago’s process is designed to pick only the best of the best.

UChicago yield rate

Now, here’s another number that shows just how much of a magnet UChicago is for top-tier students: the yield rate. For the Class of 2028, 88.3% of admitted students said “yes” to UChicago, with 1,726 out of 1,955 admits choosing to enroll.

To put that in perspective, the average yield rate for four-year not-for-profit colleges in 2022 was only 30%. Even private colleges averaged just 33%, and public schools hovered around 25%. UChicago’s 88.3% is exceptional, showing how strongly it appeals to students who likely had offers from other elite universities.

That kind of pull underscores UChicago’s standing as a world-class institution that attracts—and keeps—some of the brightest minds out there.

UChicago Acceptance Rate Trends

If you’re keeping an eye on UChicago’s acceptance rate, you’ve probably noticed a clear trend. It’s getting tougher to get in every year. Below is the admissions data over the past decade:

In the past 10 years, applications have surged by over 13,000, but spots for new students haven’t increased at the same rate. For the Class of 2028, UChicago’s acceptance rate hit a record low of 4.5%. That’s a huge leap from a decade ago when the rate was closer to 8%. This widening gap makes UChicago’s admissions process fiercely competitive.

What’s driving these numbers? A lot of it comes down to UChicago’s growing reputation as a top-tier school. The unique Core Curriculum, its strong financial aid programs like the No Barriers initiative, and a global reputation for academic rigor are magnets for high-achieving students.

At the same time, the admissions office has worked hard to keep standards sky-high. Meaning, the acceptance rate has nowhere to go but down. To have a real shot, your application needs to stand out in every way—grades, essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars.

UChicago acceptance rate vs Ivy League schools

For more context, here’s how UChicago stacks up against Ivy League schools:

While schools like Harvard (3.6%), Yale (3.7%), and Columbia (3.85%) have slightly lower acceptance rates, UChicago’s 4.5% still beats out Princeton (4.6%), Brown (5.2%), and Dartmouth (5.3%).

That’s serious company, putting UChicago firmly in the mix with the Ivy League when it comes to selectivity. And this is why UChicago is often called a “Hidden Ivy.” If you’re applying, treat the process with the same intensity you would for an Ivy, because UChicago is every bit as demanding—and rewarding.

UChicago Regular Decision Acceptance Rate

While UChicago doesn’t share specific numbers for its Regular Decision (RD) acceptance rate, it’s safe to say it’s even lower than the overall acceptance rate of 4.5% for the Class of 2028. That makes RD the most challenging application path, especially compared to Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA), where your odds might be a little better.

The upside of RD is that you have more time—applications are due in January, and decisions come out in late March. This gives you a chance to fine-tune every detail of your application.

The downside? You’ll face the largest and most competitive pool of applicants, all aiming to claim one of those few coveted spots.

To stand out in such a selective process, you’ll need to bring your best game. That means your essays need to be sharp, your recommendations glowing, and your extracurriculars meaningful. When the acceptance rate is likely below 4.5%, every part of your application has to pull its weight.

UChicago Regular Decision deadline and notification date

For Regular Decision, your application is due by January 6, and you can expect to hear back by late March. If you’re accepted, you have until May 1 to lock in your spot.

This schedule gives you time to compare offers from other schools, but don’t let that flexibility fool you. RD is a fiercely competitive option. Make sure your application is polished, compelling, and ready to impress.

UChicago Early Action Acceptance Rate

While UChicago keeps the specific Early Action (EA) acceptance rate under wraps, it’s generally thought to be slightly better than the overall acceptance rate of 4.5% for the Class of 2028.

Applying through EA at UChicago gives you the chance to hear back sooner without locking yourself into a binding commitment like Early Decision (ED). That makes EA a good option if your application is ready to shine by early fall but you’re not ready to commit just yet.

When you apply EA, you’ll get one of three outcomes: admitted, denied, or deferred. If you’re deferred, your application will roll into the Regular Decision (RD) pool for another look. Since EA is non-binding, you can take your time exploring other offers and financial aid packages before deciding.

That said, don’t expect EA to be a breeze. It’s still a competitive process, and you’ll need to bring your A-game. To stand out, make sure your essays, test scores, and extracurriculars show you’re not just academically strong but also a great fit for UChicago.

UChicago Early Action deadline and notification date

The Early Action deadline is November 1, and decisions are typically released by mid-December. If you’re accepted, you’ll have until May 1 to make your final decision.

This setup gives you the best of both worlds—an early response with plenty of time to weigh your options. Just make sure your application is as polished as it can be, because even with a slightly higher acceptance rate, UChicago is no easy win.

UChicago Early Decision Acceptance Rate

If UChicago is your dream school and you’re ready to commit, Early Decision (ED) could be your best move.

While UChicago doesn’t share specific acceptance rates for ED I and ED II, it’s fair to assume they’re slightly better than the overall acceptance rate of 4.5% for the Class of 2028. This bump is pretty standard for binding admissions plans since they tend to draw applicants who are both highly qualified and fully committed.

UChicago Early Decision policy

Both ED I and ED II are binding. They require you to promise that if UChicago lets you in, you’re all in. You’ll need to withdraw any other applications and say no to any other offers.

This kind of commitment sends a strong signal to UChicago that they’re your top choice, which can work in your favor. Schools love ED applicants because it helps them predict enrollment and boost their yield rates.

Now, the main difference between ED I and ED II is the timeline:

• ED I. Applications are due by November 1, and decisions come out by mid-December. This option is great if you’re ready to hit “submit” early in the cycle.
• ED II. Applications are due by January 6, with decisions in mid-February. This round gives you extra time—maybe to improve your grades or test scores—but it’s still binding, just like ED I.

If you need more time to polish your application or want to include updated academic results from the fall, ED II is the way to go. But if you’re set and ready to commit early, ED I lets you lock in your decision sooner, sparing you the agony of waiting.

UChicago Early Decision deadline and notification date

Here’s a quick overview of the deadlines and notification dates for UChicago’s Early Decision plans:

ED is a smart choice if you’re certain UChicago is your top pick. Just make sure you’re ready to go all in—there’s no backing out once you get that acceptance.

How to Get Accepted into UChicago

Getting into UChicago starts with submitting your application through either the Common App or the Coalition App. These platforms make it easy to track your progress and upload everything you need.

UChicago takes a holistic approach, which means they want to see who you are as a person. Your academic record, personal interests, and unique perspective all play a role in shaping your application. Here’s how to stand out in a sea of applicants:

Target GPA

Let’s talk numbers. The average GPA for admitted students is a weighted 4.32, according to UChicago’s 2023-2024 Common Data Set. Translation? Most successful applicants are crushing it in tough courses like AP, IB, or honors classes.

Moreover, over 62% of admitted students had an unweighted 4.0 GPA, and 97% ranked in the top 10% of their high school class. Basically, UChicago wants students who thrive under pressure.

But what if your GPA isn’t quite there? Don’t panic. You can balance the scales with other strengths, like killer essays, strong test scores, or standout extracurriculars. Still, shooting for a GPA close to 4.32 keeps you in the competitive zone.

Target test scores

UChicago is test-optional, so you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores. But if your scores are impressive, sending them in can only help.

Based on UChicago’s latest Common Data Set, the middle 50% of admitted students scored:

To make your application shine, aim for the 75th percentile—1560 on the SAT or a 35 on the ACT.

Not sure which test to take? Go with the one that plays to your strengths. And remember, test scores are just one part of your application. If you’re not submitting them, make sure your essays and extracurriculars pack an extra punch.

Other requirements

UChicago wants thinkers, creators, and doers. Here’s how to show them you’ve got what it takes:

• Extracurriculars. No need to do everything! Just do what matters to you. Whether it’s leading a club, volunteering, diving into research, or creating something amazing, focus on activities that reflect your passions. Make your impact count.
• Essays. UChicago’s essay prompts are famously quirky, so let your personality and brainpower shine. You’ll write one personal statement through the Common or Coalition App and two UChicago-specific ones. This is your chance to show how you think, what excites you, and why you belong at UChicago. Don’t hold back.
• Recommendations. UChicago wants to hear from people who know you best. They require two teacher recommendations and one from your school counselor. Pick teachers who can vouch for your academic chops and your character. A heartfelt, specific recommendation can make a big difference.

With UChicago’s holistic admissions process, every piece of your application carries weight. You can review UChicago’s first-year admission requirements to ensure you meet all necessary criteria. If you need more tips, check out our detailed guide on how to ace your UChicago application. It’s packed with insights to help you put your best foot forward.

UChicago Transfer Acceptance Rate

According to UChicago’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024, they admitted just 144 out of 1,821 transfer applicants, giving the transfer acceptance rate a slim 7.9%. While this is slightly higher than the overall UChicago acceptance rate, it’s still a steep climb.

The transfer application process at UChicago mirrors the rigor of first-year admissions. You’ll need stellar academic records, standout essays, and strong recommendations to make the cut. But transfer students also face their own set of challenges:

• Adapting to the Core Curriculum. Even as a transfer student, you’ll need to complete the Humanities, Civilization Studies, and Social Sciences Core courses. Transfer credits won’t count toward these, so planning your coursework is key to staying on track.
• Summer enrollment. Before diving into your first academic year, you’ll need to take two in-person summer courses. These are designed to help you fulfill Humanities Core requirements and ease into UChicago’s academic culture.
• Residency and coursework rules. You’ll be required to spend at least two full academic years at UChicago and complete over half of your major coursework there.

UChicago’s rigorous transfer process ensures that transfer students are just as prepared and passionate as those who started their undergraduate journey there. The high standards mean you’ll need to bring your best. If you’re serious about joining UChicago, careful preparation is your first step toward success.

UChicago Waitlist Acceptance Rate

UChicago doesn’t publish its waitlist acceptance rate in the Common Data Set. But real talk—it’s likely as competitive as the overall UChicago acceptance rate of 4.5%, if not tougher. Getting off the waitlist at a school this selective is no small feat, so if you find yourself there, it’s time to strategize.

What to do if you’re waitlisted

Being waitlisted isn’t a rejection—it’s more like a “maybe.” UChicago found your application strong but couldn’t offer you a spot right away because of limited space. Essentially, you’re in limbo, waiting to see if enough admitted students turn down their offers to make room for you.

The tricky part? It’s completely unpredictable. The odds depend on how many people actually enroll, which can vary wildly from year to year.

If UChicago waitlists you, it’s not over yet, but you’ll need to play it smart:

• Say yes to the waitlist. Follow the instructions in your notification to confirm you’re still interested. If you’re not in it, you can’t win it.
• Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). Use this letter to show UChicago you’re serious. Let them know why you’re still excited about joining, and share any updates—maybe a new achievement or a big win since you applied.
• Stay realistic. Waitlist admissions are competitive and far from guaranteed. It’s important to stay proactive with your other college options and have a backup plan ready to go.

While being waitlisted can feel like a blow, remember that it’s also a testament to the strength of your application. UChicago’s high standards mean only the most impressive candidates make it this far. Your best bet? Stay hopeful, but keep your options open.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is UChicago’s latest overall acceptance rate?

For the Class of 2028, the UChicago acceptance rate hit a historic low of 4.5%. That number highlights just how selective the admissions process has become.

2. What is UChicago’s Early Action acceptance rate?

UChicago doesn’t disclose exact stats for its Early Action acceptance rate, but it’s probably a bit higher than the overall 4.5%. Applying early might give you a slight edge, but it’s still a tough crowd.

3. What is UChicago’s Early Decision acceptance rate?

UChicago doesn’t share exact numbers for Early Decision, but it’s likely higher than the overall 4.5%. The binding nature of Early Decision shows serious commitment, which can give applicants a slight edge.

4. What is UChicago’s Regular Decision acceptance rate?

UChicago keeps its Regular Decision acceptance rate under wraps, but it’s safe to assume it’s lower than 4.5%. Regular Decision tends to attract the largest and most competitive pool of applicants.

5. What is UChicago’s transfer acceptance rate?

For the Class of 2027, the UChicago transfer acceptance rate was 7.9%. Out of 1,821 applicants, only 144 were admitted. While it’s higher than the first-year acceptance rate, it’s still a tough process.

6. What is UChicago’s waitlist acceptance rate?

UChicago doesn’t publish data on its waitlist acceptance rate. But considering the overall 4.5% acceptance rate, getting off the waitlist is incredibly challenging. It all depends on how many admitted students turn down their offers.

Takeaways

The UChicago acceptance rate is a glimpse into how fiercely competitive the admissions process really is. Here’s what you need to know to make sense of it all:

• UChicago’s overall acceptance rate sits at a slim 4.5%. That’s one of the lowest rates out there, putting it on par with the most competitive universities in the world.
• Compared to Ivy League schools, UChicago holds its own—or even outdoes some of them. That’s a clear sign of its elite reputation and the high bar it sets for applicants.
• Applying Early Action or Early Decision might give you a slight edge over Regular Decision, but don’t get too comfortable. Both routes are incredibly competitive, so you’ll need a strong application either way.
• To stay in the game, aim for a weighted GPA of 4.32 or higher. Shooting for a 1560 SAT score (or 35 ACT score) can help your case. But numbers aren’t everything. Stellar essays, impactful extracurriculars, and glowing recommendations are just as important.
• With such a low acceptance rate, working with a college admissions consultant can help craft a standout application and increase your chances of getting into UChicago.