With approximately 50% of students receiving financial support, UChicago aims to prepare students for lifelong success, no matter their chosen major or background prior to enrolling in The College. UChicago provided over $200 million in financial support to its students in 2024, ensuring students can attend UChicago free from financial burden.
Streamlined financial aid and application processes, generous need-based and merit-based financial aid, and personalized career guidance grant students the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the enriching academic environment at UChicago.
Free Application
Loan Free
Free Tuition
Worry Free
Types of Financial Aid
UChicago provides financial aid in two main ways: through need-based aid and merit-based scholarships:
- Need-Based Aid: UChicago meets 100% of demonstrated need in the form of grants (which do not need to be repaid) instead of loans for all families. Learn more about applying for need-based aid as a domestic student and as an international student .
- Merit-Based Scholarships: All students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, regardless of their financial situation. University merit scholarships are given out on the basis of outstanding academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, and commitment to their communities. There is no separate application required, but you are welcome to learn more about different merit scholarships.
Student Support
Odyssey Scholarship Program
A key program for students receiving guaranteed free tuition and many first-generation students at UChicago, the Odyssey Scholarship program provides enhanced academic, social, and career support to students from under-resourced families and/or who are the first in their families to attend college. All students who apply for need-based financial aid are automatically considered for this program; there is no separate application. Learn more about the Odyssey Program.
Policy Statement Regarding Undocumented Students
The University of Chicago has, from its inception, been a place where the best and brightest minds from around the world can gather to shape ideas, produce knowledge, and contribute to the betterment of human life. Our community has been deliberately inclusive, because it is from the widest possible range of perspectives and viewpoints that the most innovative ideas can be proposed, tested, and debated. We are committed to assembling a community of talented individuals regardless of their backgrounds, financial circumstances, or national origins. UChicago's commitment to diversity and free expression is further detailed in a joint statement from the President and Provost.
In this context, the University of Chicago considers for admission students from around the world. All students who apply, regardless of citizenship and including undocumented students, are considered for admission to the University and for every type of private financial aid for which they may qualify and apply. Undocumented students should fill out and submit the International Student Financial Aid Worksheet online, through a student's UChicago Account. Please note that this is the only form available for non-US citizens and non-US permanent residents applying for financial aid at UChicago.
Information for undocumented/DACA students including an FAQ and links to campus and community resources is available at inclusion.uchicago.edu. For the latest information on immigration-related topics, international students, staff and scholars are invited to visit internationalaffairs.uchicago.edu.
Questions?
If you have additional questions, please contact our Office of Financial Aid. A full breakdown of costs can also be found on their website.