University of Chicago Acceptance Rate 2026

Quick Answer

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has an acceptance rate of approximately 77% as of the 2026 admissions cycle, making it a moderately selective public research institution. With in-state tuition at $14,338 annually and a median earnings figure of $68,740 ten years after entry, UIC offers an accessible pathway to a bachelor’s degree with solid post-graduation earning potential.

Acceptance Snapshot

For the 2026 admissions cycle, the University of Illinois Chicago received applications from a substantial pool of prospective students. The institution admitted approximately 77.35% of applicants, reflecting its role as a public research university committed to access while maintaining academic standards.

With an enrollment of 22,170 students, UIC serves as a major educational hub in the Chicago metropolitan area. The 77% acceptance rate indicates that while the university is selective, it welcomes qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds. This acceptance rate is notably higher than highly selective private institutions, but comparable to other major public research universities in the Midwest and nationally.

The relatively high acceptance rate should not be mistaken for lack of rigor. UIC maintains competitive admissions standards and enrolls students prepared for university-level coursework across its diverse academic programs.

Tuition & Costs

University of Illinois Chicago Cost Breakdown (2026 Data):

Cost Category	Amount
In-State Tuition & Fees	$14,338
Out-of-State Tuition & Fees	$29,884
Average Net Price	$10,974

For Illinois residents, the annual tuition and fees of $14,338 represent one of the more affordable options among major research universities. Out-of-state students pay $29,884 annually, which is still competitive compared to private institutions.

The average net price of $10,974 reflects the impact of financial aid packages. This figure is particularly important because it represents what the typical student actually pays after grants and aid are applied—significantly less than the sticker price for many students.

Students should budget for additional costs including room and board (if living on campus), books, supplies, and personal expenses, which can add $15,000–$20,000 annually depending on housing choices and lifestyle.

Financial Aid Overview

UIC demonstrates a strong commitment to making education affordable. The average net price of $10,974 indicates that students, on average, pay substantially less than the published tuition rate after financial aid is factored in.

The university awards both need-based and merit-based aid to eligible students. Prospective students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Illinois residents may also qualify for additional state grant programs.

With a median debt of $16,704 upon graduation, UIC students graduate with manageable loan burdens compared to national averages, reflecting the institution’s affordable tuition structure and aid availability.

Graduation Rates

The University of Illinois Chicago reports a completion rate of approximately 61% for its six-year graduation cohort. This metric reflects the diverse student population UIC serves, including many first-generation college students, working students, and students balancing multiple responsibilities alongside their education.

While this rate is lower than highly selective institutions, it is important to contextualize this figure within UIC’s mission as an urban public research university serving commuter and working students. Many UIC students take longer to complete degrees due to work commitments, family responsibilities, or part-time enrollment—factors that extend time-to-degree but do not diminish the value of their educational outcomes.

Post-Graduation Earnings

According to the most recent data available, the median earnings for University of Illinois Chicago graduates ten years after entry stood at $68,740. This figure represents the earning power of UIC’s alumni across all majors and reflects the real-world value of a UIC degree in the job market.

This earnings level is competitive for graduates of public research universities and demonstrates that UIC prepares students for careers with solid earning trajectories. Earnings vary significantly by major, with engineering, computer science, and business graduates typically earning above the median, while education and social service majors may earn below the median—a pattern consistent across higher education institutions nationally.

FAQ

What is the University of Illinois Chicago’s acceptance rate?

As of the 2026 admissions cycle, UIC’s acceptance rate is approximately 77.35%. This means that roughly 3 out of 4 qualified applicants are admitted, making it a moderately selective institution compared to highly selective universities but more selective than open-enrollment institutions.

How much does it cost to attend UIC?

In-state tuition and fees are $14,338 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $29,884 annually. However, the average net price students actually pay is $10,974 after financial aid is applied. Students should budget an additional $15,000–$20,000 for room, board, books, and supplies depending on their living situation.

What are the typical test scores for admitted students?

The provided data does not include SAT or ACT score ranges for the 2026 admissions cycle. Prospective students should visit UIC’s official admissions website or contact the admissions office directly for current standardized test score expectations and whether testing is required for their intended program.

How much do UIC graduates earn after college?

According to the most recent data, the median earnings for UIC graduates ten years after entry are $68,740. This figure varies by major, with engineering and business graduates typically earning more and education majors earning less on average.

What percentage of UIC students graduate on time?

UIC reports a six-year completion rate of approximately 61%. This reflects the diverse student population served by the university, including many commuter students, first-generation college students, and working students who may pursue education on a part-time or extended timeline.

Is financial aid available at UIC?

Yes. The average net price of $10,974 demonstrates that UIC awards substantial financial aid to its students. Prospective students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal and state grants, loans, and work-study. The university also offers merit-based scholarships to qualified applicants.

What is the typical student debt at UIC?

The median debt for UIC graduates is $16,704, which is below the national average for four-year degree recipients. This reflects the university’s affordable tuition structure and the availability of financial aid to students.

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Data Sources

The statistics and figures presented in this article are sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, with data fetched as of April 11, 2026. Readers are encouraged to verify current admission requirements, tuition rates, and financial aid policies directly with the University of Illinois Chicago’s official admissions and financial aid offices, as institutional data is updated regularly and may change between publication and enrollment.