Is the University of Chicago public or private?

It is a private research university in Chicago, Illinois. The institution and its schools publish their own tuition, admissions, financial-aid and programme rules, so applicants should not transfer assumptions from public US universities.

What is the undergraduate academic structure?

College students complete the Core Curriculum, a major and general electives for at least 4,200 units. The College awards BA and/or BS degrees depending on the programme, and students generally declare a major after their first year under current College rules.

Can international students apply to UChicago?

Yes, international applicants can apply to the College and to many graduate and professional programmes, subject to each school’s requirements. The selected programme may require English-language evidence, academic records, financial documentation and immigration steps after admission.

When does the academic year begin?

The College operates on Autumn, Winter and Spring quarters, with Autumn 2026 beginning on September 28. Graduate and professional schools publish their own calendars and may use different start dates, so applicants must follow the selected programme’s schedule.

How much does study cost?

Costs vary by school, degree and year. For example, the Law School lists 2026–27 JD 1L tuition of USD 86,856 and a total nine-month budget of USD 122,034; other programmes publish separate tuition, fees, insurance and living estimates. Confirm the current official schedule before applying.

College applicants use the current undergraduate application route described by UChicago Admissions. Graduate and professional applicants apply through the relevant school or division, such as UChicagoGRAD, Booth, Harris, Law or Public Health, with programme-specific documents, tests, references and deadlines.

Is accommodation guaranteed?

Traditional first-year College students must live on campus for their first six quarters, but room type, contract and meal-plan availability are governed by current Housing and Dining rules. Graduate and later-year students should compare university housing with private Hyde Park rentals and confirm deadlines early.

What support is available after arrival?

Support includes academic advising, Student Wellness, disability services, international-student services, identity and inclusion resources, financial aid and UChicago HELP. The exact office and process depend on the student’s school; arrival, insurance and visa steps should be completed from the admission instructions.

Does UChicago provide scholarships or funding?

Funding varies materially by programme. UChicagoGRAD states that master’s funding ranges from partial or full merit awards to little or no institutional funding, while doctoral offers often include programme-specific support. Read the exact offer and current school funding page rather than assume full funding.

What should law applicants check?

The JD is a US professional law degree and the LLM requires prior legal education or an equivalent qualification. Applicants who intend to practise outside the United States must separately confirm recognition, bar or licensing rules with the relevant authority in their intended jurisdiction.