Lori Meadows
The University of Chicago is one of the top schools in the United States, often compared to Ivy League schools. The university has a test-optional policy, meaning that international students are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. However, the university has a “No Harm testing policy, meaning that any test scores submitted will only be used in the review if they positively impact an applicant's chance of admission. International applicants go through the same contextual review process as domestic applicants, with the only difference being that international students are required to submit a financial aid application if they require need-based aid.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Test-optional policy | The University of Chicago is test-optional, meaning that applicants are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. |
| "No Harm" policy | The University of Chicago has a "No Harm" policy, meaning that any test scores submitted will only be used in review if they positively affect an applicant's chance of admission. Test scores that may negatively impact an admission decision will not be considered. |
| English Proficiency Testing | English Proficiency Testing is not required, but it is encouraged for some international applicants, especially if they haven't studied in English for the last two years. |
| Application process | International applicants follow the same application process as all other students, but they are required to submit a financial aid application prior to admission if they require need-based aid during their time at the university. |
| Application platforms | The University of Chicago accepts applications through Apply Coalition, Powered by Scoir, and the Common Application. |
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What You'll Learn
University of Chicago's No Harm testing policy
The University of Chicago is a private research university in Chicago, Illinois, with a quirky student body and rigorous academics. It is one of the top schools in the United States, known for its low acceptance rate of around 4.7%. The university has a "No Harm Testing" policy, which means that it is test-optional and does not require applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, if applicants choose to submit test scores, the university will only consider them if they positively impact the applicant's chance of admission. Test scores that may negatively impact an admission decision will not be considered. This policy applies to all applicants, including domestic students, international students, and transfer students.
The "No Harm Testing" policy is designed to benefit applicants and ensure that test scores do not negatively affect their chances of admission. While the university encourages applicants to submit test scores, it is not a requirement. Applicants can choose to submit either official or self-reported scores through Apply Coalition, Powered by Scoir, or the Common Application. If applicants choose to self-report their scores, they will not be required to submit official score reports unless they are admitted and choose to enroll. To be considered official, scores can be sent by a school official, listed on a transcript, or sent directly to the university from the testing agency.
The University of Chicago also does not require English Proficiency Testing but recommends it for international applicants who have not studied in English for at least the last two years. A high score in English Proficiency Testing can assuage any concerns about an applicant's preparedness to attend college in the United States. In addition to test scores, the university considers multiple factors when assessing an application, including transcripts, extracurricular activities, and a personal statement. The university looks for quirky, analytical, curious, and internally motivated students who succeed in a traditional classroom setting.
The "No Harm Testing" policy offers flexibility to applicants and ensures that test scores are not the sole determining factor for admission. However, it is important to note that the university still values test scores and encourages applicants to submit competitive scores. While the policy provides an opportunity for applicants to showcase their strengths beyond test scores, it is essential to consider the overall competitiveness of the admissions process and the high standards set by the university.
Overall, the University of Chicago's "No Harm Testing" policy allows applicants to highlight their strengths and demonstrates the university's commitment to considering multiple factors in the admissions process. By not requiring test scores and only considering them positively, the university provides a more holistic review of applications. Applicants are encouraged to submit competitive test scores but can rest assured that their chances of admission will not be negatively impacted if they choose not to submit them.
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SAT/ACT scores are optional
The University of Chicago is a test-optional institution, meaning that applicants are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. The university also practices a “No Harm” testing policy, meaning that any SAT or ACT score submitted will only be used in the review if it positively affects an applicant's chance of admission. Test scores that may negatively impact an admission decision will not be considered in the review.
The University of Chicago's test-optional policy has been successful in increasing the diversity of its student body. After implementing this policy, the university increased its enrollment of first-generation and low-income students by 20%, rural students by 56%, and admitted 14 veterans after having none the previous year.
However, despite the "No Harm" policy, some sources advise applicants to be cautious about submitting test scores that are not well within the middle 50% of SAT or ACT scores of admitted students. While the university claims that it won't hurt an applicant's chances to submit a lower test score, it is still an opportunity for applicants to showcase their strengths. Therefore, applicants are generally advised to submit test scores if they feel they represent them well as students.
Additionally, the University of Chicago does not require English proficiency testing but encourages it for international applicants who have not studied in an English-speaking school for at least the last two years. A high score in English proficiency can assuage any concerns about an applicant's preparedness to attend college in the United States.
In summary, while SAT/ACT scores are optional for applicants to the University of Chicago, including international students, submitting competitive test scores can still be advantageous and strengthen an application.
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English Proficiency Testing is not required
The University of Chicago is test-optional, meaning that applicants are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. The university has a "'No Harm' testing policy, meaning that any test scores submitted will only be used in the review if they positively affect an applicant's chance of admission. Test scores that may negatively impact an admission decision will not be considered.
The University of Chicago also does not require English Proficiency Testing. However, they encourage it for some international applicants. If you haven't studied in a school where the medium of instruction was English for at least the last two years, submitting an English Proficiency Test score is highly recommended. A high score will assure any concerns admissions officials may have about your preparedness to attend college in the United States.
The University of Chicago is looking for quirky kids who think differently and succeed in a traditional classroom setting. They want to see a transcript that shows the highest grades in the hardest classes available to you. While your grades are the most important piece of your application, each applicant is considered to be "more than [their] GPA".
The SAT used to have an optional essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. The University of Chicago considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration.
If you do decide to submit your SAT or ACT scores, you may share either official or self-reported scores. Self-reported scores will not require official score reports unless you are admitted and choose to enroll. To be considered official, scores can be sent by a school official, listed on a transcript, or sent to the University of Chicago directly from the testing agency.
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The University's financial aid package
The University of Chicago is test-optional, meaning that applicants are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. However, if applicants choose to submit test scores, these will only be considered if they positively impact the applicant's chance of admission. Test scores that may negatively impact an admission decision will not be taken into account.
The University of Chicago provides financial aid to students based on their demonstrated financial need. The university commits to meeting 100% of the demonstrated financial need of admitted students, including international students, throughout their four years of college. This financial aid package is grant-based and does not include any loan expectations.
International applicants undergo the same contextual review process as domestic applicants. However, international students who anticipate requiring need-based financial aid during their time at the university must submit a financial aid application before admission.
The financial aid package for international students includes an international stipend, which is paid directly to the student. This stipend can then be used to pay for any remaining charges due to the university. To receive this stipend, international students must complete and upload specific documents, such as I-94 documentation and an affidavit stating that they will apply for an ITIN upon arrival.
In rare cases, international students may appeal their financial aid decisions if there is a drastic change in their family's financial circumstances. The university outlines specific circumstances that would be considered for these appeals, including situations impacted by conflict, economic crisis, currency devaluation, or a primary wage earner becoming incapacitated.
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The application process for international students
The University of Chicago is test-optional, meaning international students are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. However, if you choose to submit test scores, they will only be considered if they positively impact your application. The University of Chicago also does not require English Proficiency Testing, but it is recommended for international applicants who haven't studied in English for the last two years.
International applicants to the University of Chicago follow the same application process as all other students, but there are some additional requirements to keep in mind. First-year applicants, including international applicants, may apply for entrance in the Autumn Quarter only. Applicants should submit either the Apply Coalition or the Common Application, both of which include the University of Chicago Supplement. Applicants will also be prompted to create a UChicago Account, where they can submit information and view their admissions decision. Through the online application platform, you will submit basic information about your background, academic profile, and extracurricular activities, as well as a brief personal statement.
Additionally, applicants are required to submit official transcripts and the Secondary School Report, which provides an overview of your high school academic record. All secondary school counselors have the option of submitting letters of recommendation and school forms online. Students may also elect to submit results of AP exams on a self-reported basis and can upload a schoolhouse.world certification to their application.
It is important to note that international students are required to submit a financial aid application prior to admission if they think they may require need-based aid during their time at the University of Chicago. English proficiency test scores and assessments are considered valid for two years following the test date and must be valid at the time of application. Translations of documents may also be required, and these should be provided on a translator's letterhead.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the University of Chicago is test-optional, meaning that international students are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score.
The "No Harm" policy means that the University of Chicago will only assess test scores as a neutral or positive aspect of an application, not a negative. Any SAT or ACT score submitted will only be used in review if it positively affects an applicant's chance of admission.
The University of Chicago does not require English Proficiency Testing, but they do encourage it for some international applicants. If you haven’t been to school in English for the last two years, submitting an English Proficiency Test score is recommended.
The SAT Essay/ACT Writing section is considered optional and may not be included as part of the admissions consideration.
