Chicago, the third-largest city in the USA, is a popular academic destination among students pursuing higher education. It is home to some of the most reputed universities that offer world-class education and incredible post-study work opportunities. So, if you want to know about these top universities in Chicago and other interesting details, this is the guide for you.

Key Highlights

• Benefits of studying at Universities in Chicago
• Top 5 Chicago universities list
  • Northwestern University
  • The University of Chicago
  • University of Illinois Chicago
  • Illinois Institute of Technology
  • Loyola University Chicago
• Popular public universities in Chicago
• Duolingo-accepting universities in Chicago, USA
• Eligibility criteria: Best universities in Chicago
• Admission process for universities in Chicago for masters

Benefits of studying at Universities in Chicago

• Chicago is home to over 25 universities that are recognised for offering exceptional academic and infrastructural facilities and social support to students.
• 30+ Fortune 500 companies, such as Boeing, Hyatt Hotels, United States Steel, Exelon, etc., have their headquarters in Chicago. Therefore, students can unlock excellent job opportunities in various domains.
• An affordable cost of living and the excellent student life make it one of the best cities to live and study.

 

Top 5 Chicago universities list

Northwestern University: Northwestern University is one of the top private research universities in Chicago, offering graduate and professional programs in domains like Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Economics, Management, etc. With ~21,000 student population, it has 3 campuses and 12 schools & colleges.

US News & World Report’s Best National University Rankings 2024	9
Student: faculty ratio	6:1

The University of Chicago: The University of Chicago is a leading research university with its main campus on Chicago’s South Side Chicago and 7 international campuses and centres around the world. It offers graduate programs in 4 streams through its 7 professional schools.

US News & World Report’s Best National University Rankings 2024	12
Student: faculty ratio	5:1

University of Illinois Chicago (UIC): UIC is the largest university in Chicago that welcomes over 6,000 international students and scholars every year. It offers 63 doctoral and 102 master’s degree programs in a variety of academic disciplines, such as Engineering, Architecture, Social Work, Education, Arts, etc.

US News & World Report’s Best National University Rankings 2024	82
Student: faculty ratio	18:1

 

Illinois Institute of Technology: It is a private and technology-focused institute with an excellent academic reputation. It offers 60+ graduate programs, PhDs, and many other study programs in fields like Engineering, Science, Business, Architecture, Design, Applied Technology, and Human Sciences.

US News & World Report’s Best National University Rankings 2024	98
Student: faculty ratio	12:1

Loyola University Chicago: Loyola University Chicago is a premier Catholic university that believes in the philosophy that quality education should be accessible to all. It offers 200+ graduate, professional, and certificate programs and 100+ online programs in various disciplines.

US News & World Report’s Best National University Rankings 2024	142
Student: faculty ratio	14:1

 

Popular public universities in Chicago

• University of Illinois Chicago
• Chicago State University
• Governors State University
• Illinois State University

Duolingo-accepting universities in Chicago, USA

Duolingo English Test (DET) is a computer-based test that assesses candidates’ proficiency in four areas: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Many universities accept Duolingo scores for masters and other study programs as a part of the university admission process. In Chicago, some universities that accept DET are as follows:

• DePaul University
• Illinois Institute of Technology
• The University of Chicago

Eligibility criteria: Best universities in Chicago

As an international student, you need to submit an application form along with some documents as required by the university. Some of the common documents required by universities for post-graduate programs are as follows:

• A bachelor’s degree from a reputed university
• Academic transcripts (degrees and certificates)
• Appear for language proficiency exams, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or DET
• Letter of confirmation from your chosen university
• Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Curriculum Vitae
• A valid passport

Admission process for universities in Chicago for masters

• Extensively research various universities and select the ones that offer the course of your choice.
• Go through the course and university-specific requirements, and accordingly prepare for the entrance exams. Keep other documents like SOP, LOR, etc., and be ready to attach them to your application form.
• Apply for the US study visa as soon as you receive the letter of confirmation from the selected university.

So, if you are planning to study in Chicago but are facing financial constraints, opt for an education loan for abroad programs. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer customised student loans with benefits like quick sanctions, 100% finance, and flexible repayment options. Connect with us today for more details!