Loyola University Chicago campus
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Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL · Private · 11,737 students

Loyola's campus life integrates academic pursuits with vibrant community engagement and research facilities.

Acceptance rate

81.6%

SAT (mid 50%)

1170–1360

Avg net price

$36,079

after aid

Testing

optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and Loyola University Chicago’s admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Getting in is the hard part. Loyola University Chicago admitted 81.6% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 11701360 on the SAT and 2732 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Loyola University Chicago actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Academics That Ignite Action

From the first day of class, learning is active and deeply connected to life beyond campus.

Loyola offers more than 100 majors and 100 minors, alongside a wide range of graduate and online programs.

  • Quinlan School of BusinessAccounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing
  • College of Arts and SciencesAnthropology, Computer Science, English, Political Science
  • School of CommunicationAdvertising Creative, Film and Digital Media Studies, Multimedia Journalism

Verified from luc.edu and gpem.luc.edu and luc.edu and luc.edu and luc.edu and luc.edu and luc.edu and luc.edu and luc.edu.

Applying

Requirements and deadlines

  • Testingoptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from https://www.luc.edu.

The essays

Supplemental essay prompts

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

  • One essay of 500 words or less is required. Please include information in your essay that describes your international experience or global interest that you feel prepares you for the Rome Start program.

    Up to 500 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.luc.edu.

Cost and aid

What you will actually pay

The sticker price is about $67,408, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $36,079.

On average, 99 percent of first-year students receive financial assistance, opening doors to an education that will help you reach your potential.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $71,530.

Verified from https://www.luc.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Campus life

The feel of the place

Engage with community partners across Chicago, collaborate with faculty on research, then join a campus pep rally, a Tuesday here is active and impactful.

Students cheer at a campus pep rally, conduct experiments in science labs, and cultivate hydroponic plants in a greenhouse, all within the dynamic Chicago area.

UrbanResearch-focusedCommunity-engaged

Quick answers

Loyola University Chicago FAQ

Is Loyola University Chicago test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Loyola University Chicago is optional.
How hard is it to get into Loyola University Chicago?
Very hard. Loyola University Chicago admits 81.6% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1170 to 1360 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does Loyola University Chicago cost?
The list price is about $67,408, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $36,079.
Is Loyola University Chicago worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $71,530 ten years after enrolling, and 75% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about Loyola University Chicago.

Spike answers from Loyola University Chicago’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.