2024 Best Colleges in the Chicago Area

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1-25 of 55 results

Junior: Attending Northwestern University allows me to be of service to people in my community. Its strong emphasis on community service and social justice aligns perfectly with my goals of advocating for systemic change. By participating in Northwestern’s outreach programs and leveraging its vast network, I bring attention to the issues plaguing our community and work towards sustainable solutions. The process to switch majors within McCormick is seamless. Starting at Weignberg my freshman year, I had to wait a whole quarter before switching schools and major.... Read 1,495 reviews
#1 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Northwestern University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
EVANSTON, IL,
1495 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Attending Northwestern University allows me to be of service to people in my community. Its strong emphasis on community service and social justice aligns perfectly with my goals of advocating for...The process to switch majors within McCormick is seamless. Starting at Weignberg my freshman year, I had to wait a whole quarter before switching schools and major..
Read 1495 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $22,095,
SAT Range: 1490-1570,
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Alum: I enjoyed my time at Hyde Park! I thought that the school challenged me strongly and prepared me well for post-college life. The curriculum was thoughtful and the range of classes to take outside of my major was diverse. The campus is beautiful and well-maintained and easy to get around. Given the location, the school takes security very seriously and the UCPD is well-versed in the neighborhood and addresses it accordingly. I know it's referred to as "where fun goes to die" but the students make their own fun! And having the city of Chicago to enjoy is a large benefit as well.... Read 1,302 reviews
#2 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
University of Chicago
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
1302 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I enjoyed my time at Hyde Park! I thought that the school challenged me strongly and prepared me well for post-college life. The curriculum was thoughtful and the range of classes to take outside of....
Read 1302 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $36,991,
SAT Range: 1500-1580,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Senior: Wheaton College is a great place to learn in a safe and warm environment. The professors are so loving and the students are caring as well. The professors provide thoughtful feedback to students and really get to know the students. Some of our professors even invite students to their houses to have a meal, and sometimes we are also invited to the college’s President’s house to play games and have fun. Wheaton is definitely a school where I would want my children to go in the future.... Read 694 reviews
#3 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Wheaton College - Illinois
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
WHEATON, IL,
694 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Wheaton College is a great place to learn in a safe and warm environment. The professors are so loving and the students are caring as well. The professors provide thoughtful feedback to students and....
Read 694 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 88%,
Net Price: $29,961,
SAT Range: 1250-1430,
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SponsoredCollege
Valparaiso University
4 Year·
VALPARAISO, IN
·
Rating 3.55 out of 5 1,155
SponsoredCollege
Lake Forest College
4 Year·
LAKE FOREST, IL
·
Rating 3.52 out of 5 491
SponsoredCollege
University of Mary Washington
4 Year·
FREDERICKSBURG, VA
·
Rating 3.16 out of 5 1,321
Sophomore: Dorms: The dorms at UIC are quite good. I found them comfortable and well-maintained. The quality of the dorms received a decent rating from fellow students So, no complaints there! Dining Food: Now, let’s talk about the dining situation. Unfortunately, this is where UIC falls short. The campus food received a “B” grade based on meal plan cost and student reviews. While there are options like Subway and Wendy’s, some students feel that the on-campus food isn’t the best. Additionally, there have been reports of food-related issues, like Panda Express making people sick. So, if you’re a foodie, you might be disappointed. Campus Life: Here’s the tricky part: campus life. UIC doesn’t have a vibrant campus scene. If you’re looking for a bustling social environment, you might be disappointed. According to student reviews, the campus community is okay—we’re all just here for an education, nothing more. So, if you’re seeking an active social life, you might need to explore off-campus.... Read 3,609 reviews
#4 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
University of Illinois Chicago
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
3609 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Dorms: The dorms at UIC are quite good. I found them comfortable and well-maintained. The quality of the dorms received a decent rating from fellow students So, no complaints there!Dining Food: Now, let’s talk about the dining situation. Unfortunately, this is where UIC falls short. The campus food received a “B” grade based on meal plan cost and student reviews. While there...Campus Life: Here’s the tricky part: campus life. UIC doesn’t have a vibrant campus scene. If you’re looking for a bustling social environment, you might be disappointed. According to student....
Read 3609 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 79%,
Net Price: $10,384,
SAT Range: 1110-1340,
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Junior: What I like about DePaul is their cybersecurity program and the resources they have to help you with it. The professors I have taken for those classes have been great and were able to provide me with a lot of resources in order to help me improve on my skills. The study abroad programs are also great as I have already done two short term ones, one being in my freshmen year which is for students in their first year of college to be able to study abroad and I just did my second one this summer. Some things I would want them to improve upon is giving more funding for their cybersecurity program which is known for being great but feels like it gets less attention compared to some of their other programs. As well as having more options for long term study abroad programs for cybersecurity majors instead of having them save up space in their liberal arts elective courses to be able to do the other long term programs.... Read 3,725 reviews
#5 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
DePaul University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
3725 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says What I like about DePaul is their cybersecurity program and the resources they have to help you with it. The professors I have taken for those classes have been great and were able to provide me with....
Read 3725 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 70%,
Net Price: $32,151,
SAT Range: 1070-1300,
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Alum: Really liked Loyola Chicago. It checks a lot of boxes and was a best of both worlds for me. It is beautifully right on Lake Michigan. This really makes it feel peaceful and makes the campus feel like you are not in a big city. You can even walk to beaches when the weather is nice! At the same time, the University is technically in the City of Chicago which is such a great city. It's easy to get downtown and to other areas of the city where there is lots to do. The school says that it is the largest Jesuit University, but honestly doesn't feel that big.The school is listed as an R2 research institution and lots of professors write books but it still feels personable -my professors recognized me around campus. Seems like every semester there is an issue with one dorm or another - like a flood or burst pipe, but there's a lot of construction on campus so I think the U is working on that. Basketball games are really fun but would love to see even more social events on or close to campus.... Read 3,142 reviews
#6 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Loyola University Chicago
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
3142 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Really liked Loyola Chicago. It checks a lot of boxes and was a best of both worlds for me. It is beautifully right on Lake Michigan. This really makes it feel peaceful and makes the campus feel like....
Read 3142 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 79%,
Net Price: $37,511,
SAT Range: 1180-1370,
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Senior: I had a great experience at LFC! The location is very local at first, but I grew to love it and take advantage of how gorgeous Lake Forest is. You kind of have to see with a Gilmore girls kind of lenses to truly appreciate it. And of course being near Chicago was also a lot of fun - trying new dinner spots and especially having the chance to have an internship a short train ride away. Definitely would recommend getting an apartment for later years (junior and senior) after making your friends - if you haven’t met your people by sophomore year, keep holding out on campus to ensure you are able to meet new people before graduating. I never attended the campus events other than HOCO, I just went to parties on campus or to the bars near by when I wanted to socialize. And the career center is incredible, we have many connections to great companies. Classes are great and small, but like any school there are the good and bad professors.... Read 491 reviews
#7 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Lake Forest College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LAKE FOREST, IL,
491 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I had a great experience at LFC! The location is very local at first, but I grew to love it and take advantage of how gorgeous Lake Forest is. You kind of have to see with a Gilmore girls kind of....
Read 491 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 60%,
Net Price: $27,839,
SAT Range: 1150-1340,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
#8 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Moody Bible Institute
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
558 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Works Here says Situated in one of the best neighborhoods of Chicago, the campus is accessible and well-kept. The school has been pouring a great deal of money into renovating older buildings, improving security....
Read 558 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 94%,
Net Price: $21,368,
SAT Range: 990-1200,
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#9 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
742 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says My time at the Illinois Institute of Technology has been exceptionally rewarding. I've gained a wealth of knowledge and grown significantly as a person. I've made substantial improvements in my....
Read 742 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 61%,
Net Price: $28,702,
SAT Range: 1220-1410,
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Sophomore: Being a sophomore at Elmhurst University has been an amazing experience. Throughout my time here, I have been fortunate to learn under some of the most brilliant and kind educators who genuinely care about our growth and success. Their dedication to teaching and their ability to make learning engaging and meaningful have made a significant impact on me. The supportive environment at Elmhurst fosters not only academic excellence but also personal development. I have been encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, which have helped me build lasting friendships and develop essential life skills. Moreover, the diversity at Elmhurst University has enriched my college experience. The inclusive community has provided opportunities to learn from peers with different backgrounds and perspectives, broadening my understanding of the world. The sense of community and strong support system at Elmhurst have made my college years unforgettable and truly rewarding.... Read 1,197 reviews
#10 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Elmhurst University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ELMHURST, IL,
1197 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Being a sophomore at Elmhurst University has been an amazing experience. Throughout my time here, I have been fortunate to learn under some of the most brilliant and kind educators who genuinely care...Moreover, the diversity at Elmhurst University has enriched my college experience. The inclusive community has provided opportunities to learn from peers with different backgrounds and perspectives,....
Read 1197 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 76%,
Net Price: $24,108,
SAT Range: 980-1240,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Freshman: Trinity has been the most amazing experience I have had. The community is amazing and I have grown so much as a person and also in my relationship with the Lord. I cant say enough good things about this school. Although there are things that can be improved such as making sure our campus is truly built on the word of God I have had a great experience. There are so many opportunities to join clubs, be a part of bible studies and so much more. I am so thankful for my time here so far!... Read 319 reviews
#11 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Trinity Christian College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PALOS HEIGHTS, IL,
319 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Trinity has been the most amazing experience I have had. The community is amazing and I have grown so much as a person and also in my relationship with the Lord. I cant say enough good things about....
Read 319 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 71%,
Net Price: $18,822,
SAT Range: 910-1110,
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Junior: Northeastern is a good school especially for those that want a fresh start with school or are going back to school. Students of all different ages go here so there's no shame if you want that fresh start! The teachers are also very understanding when it comes to additional support and they make time for you. It's a smaller school so the classes typically have around 30 students which allows for more 1 on 1 time with teachers. Because it's a smaller school, there's only 1 advisor for each major so you have to make sure to schedule appointments in advance. There's around 1-3 options for teachers for 1 class in a semester so stalk them heavily on rate my professors to avoid the bad ones.... Read 1,221 reviews
#12 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Northeastern Illinois University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
1221 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Northeastern is a good school especially for those that want a fresh start with school or are going back to school. Students of all different ages go here so there's no shame if you want that fresh....
Read 1221 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 63%,
Net Price: $14,262,
SAT Range: 810-1010,
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Junior: I enjoy being a part of Indiana University Northwest community, and as a student it is important to me to have other curriculums I can participate in. There are plenty of activities to try and join at IUN, and the atmosphere is welcoming, and has many opportunities for personal and academic growth. Whether it's through student organizations, cultural events, or recreational activities, IUN offers a variety of ways to get involved and connect with fellow students. The campus environment is supportive and fosters a sense of community, making it an ideal place to explore new interests and develop lasting friendships.... Read 744 reviews
#13 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Indiana University - Northwest
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
GARY, IN,
744 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I enjoy being a part of Indiana University Northwest community, and as a student it is important to me to have other curriculums I can participate in. There are plenty of activities to try and join....
Read 744 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 80%,
Net Price: $6,553,
SAT Range: 950-1170,
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Freshman: A great campus with plenty of accesible opportunities and features. Multiple community events throughout the week, and interactive organizations. The Meteorology program is awesome! Every other month, they do a balloon launch and keep us informed ahead of severe weather. Math tutoring and the writing center are available throughout most of the week. Food is okay; one day it might be bad, the next day, they might add something really good (regardless, there is an extra cafeteria to try something new). I love their library; 4 floors for yourself to peacefully enjoy (and a cafe, too). Valparaiso has everything strategically nearby (Walmart, Dollar Tree, many restaurants, etc.) and also offers transportation (both inside and outside campus). I think they should lower the price.... Read 1,155 reviews
#14 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Valparaiso University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
VALPARAISO, IN,
1155 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says A great campus with plenty of accesible opportunities and features. Multiple community events throughout the week, and interactive organizations. The Meteorology program is awesome! Every other....
Read 1155 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 94%,
Net Price: $22,755,
SAT Range: 1140-1360,
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Junior: As a student, I have had an incredibly positive experience in school. From the moment I stepped into my first classroom, I was welcomed by passionate and dedicated teachers who truly cared about my success. Their enthusiasm for their subjects was contagious, and I found myself eager to learn and discover new things every day. Alongside my classmates, I have made lifelong friendships and shared countless memories that I will cherish forever. The supportive and inclusive school environment has allowed me to thrive academically and personally, providing me with the tools and skills necessary to succeed in all aspects of my life.... Read 1,528 reviews
#15 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Purdue University Northwest
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HAMMOND, IN,
1528 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says As a student, I have had an incredibly positive experience in school. From the moment I stepped into my first classroom, I was welcomed by passionate and dedicated teachers who truly cared about my....
Read 1528 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 63%,
Net Price: $9,162,
SAT Range: 950-1170,
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#16 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
National Louis University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
557 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says I had a great experience during my undergrad and have enrolled for my graduate degree. Staff and educators are extremely helpful in navigating online course. Instructors are readily available to....
Read 557 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 92%,
Net Price: $14,769,
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Junior: I had a fantastic experience at North Park University. The campus environment was vibrant and engaging, and the faculty and staff were incredibly supportive and dedicated to student success. The variety of courses offered provided a well-rounded education, and the campus community felt like a second home. I particularly enjoyed the diverse student body, which added to the rich cultural experience at the university. Overall, my time at North Park University was fulfilling, and I gained valuable skills and knowledge that have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.... Read 723 reviews
#17 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
North Park University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
723 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I had a fantastic experience at North Park University. The campus environment was vibrant and engaging, and the faculty and staff were incredibly supportive and dedicated to student success. The....
Read 723 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 69%,
Net Price: $19,029,
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Senior: One of the biggest challenges that I have faced during my college career is being social, getting out there making friends and or getting involved at my university. Being a pandemic high school graduate and having my first year on-campus college experience taken from me, made it hard to naturally interact with people again. With that hanging over me, when the world officially opened back up and I transferred to Chicago State, the environment was new and it was the first time actually sitting in a lecture hall; being in a room full of students again. I liked that Chicago State was small and the ratio for student to teacher was just what I need as I was readjusting to the world opening back up. I valued the small campus because all my interactions were so interpersonal and it helped me get back into routine with school and the full time college student life. I do wish the campus would have more student activities on campus so that there can be more student interaction and socializing.... Read 650 reviews
#18 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Chicago State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
650 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says One of the biggest challenges that I have faced during my college career is being social, getting out there making friends and or getting involved at my university. Being a pandemic high school....
Read 650 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 49%,
Net Price: $6,446,
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Alum: Reflecting on my time here at NCC, I wish I had gone to more events on campus. Whether it be leisurely, networking, or educational presentations. In hindsight, that is where a lot of the value of this school comes from- being able to build connections and capitalize on it to further one’s career. I am graduating with my BA in - Psychology and feel ready to go into the workforce. - Athletics department is AMAZING. Shoutout Women’s Wrestling! - A downside to NCC is the undertone of racism and its performative action. There are many DEI programs, committees, and initiatives that do not actually target the issue they claim to advocate for. Simply, BRING IN MORE COLORED/MARGINALIZED STUDENTS. You can’t teach someone not to be racist! It comes through interactions and cultural immersion. There is no culture to experience if there aren’t many students there to represent. 65% white students is above the national average. Respectfully, Do Better!... Read 931 reviews
#19 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
North Central College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NAPERVILLE, IL,
931 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Reflecting on my time here at NCC, I wish I had gone to more events on campus. Whether it be leisurely, networking, or educational presentations. In hindsight, that is where a lot of the value of...- Athletics department is AMAZING. Shoutout Women’s Wrestling!- A downside to NCC is the undertone of racism and its performative action. There are many DEI programs, committees, and initiatives that do not actually target the issue they claim to advocate for.....
Read 931 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 61%,
Net Price: $25,285,
SAT Range: 1020-1240,
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Senior: I love the campus architecture, it is in the cathedral area of Joliet and the buildings are beautiful. The students all seem to get along and mind their own business and everyone I have come into contact with has been pleasant. I am an adult student so I do not live on campus but there seem to be some older students at the University. The campus is mainly made up of younger students, but it has a very calm and welcoming vibe. The Professors are very nice and understanding as well. The only thing I would change is the parking situation but that's just nit picking.... Read 341 reviews
#20 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
University of St. Francis - Illinois
4 Year,
JOLIET, IL,
341 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I love the campus architecture, it is in the cathedral area of Joliet and the buildings are beautiful. The students all seem to get along and mind their own business and everyone I have come into....
Read 341 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 58%,
Net Price: $18,560,
SAT Range: 1030-1240,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
#21 Best Colleges in Chicago Area.
Roosevelt University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
1027 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says The class variety is great! Being in downtown chicago is SO COOL, there is always something to do! It is extremely hard to get ahold of advisors, administrators and other departments via call or....
Read 1027 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 88%,
Net Price: $22,117,
SAT Range: 840-1080,
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Junior: I like the atmosphere, the people are great! I would like to see a change in some of the teaching. Some of the teachers I'm not sure if it is a specific degree, but the teachers have their way of teaching and do not adapt to the students. I found it hard at times to keep up with the teacher's style of teaching, and her methods just didn't help me understand the material. But other than that, it is a lot of great people on campus, and because it is small, I feel that I can get to know a lot of people. There are also a lot of things to do on campus a lot of different activities to do and a lot of clubs to get involved with. Even though I am not a party person, I did find myself at times wanting to hang out and go out with the people that I met and had become friends with. The campus has given me a different outlook on-campus living. I did transfer from a JUCO college where there was no on-campus living, and I thought that was the way to go, Lewis has definitely changed my perspective.... Read 957 reviews
Lewis University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ROMEOVILLE, IL,
957 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I like the atmosphere, the people are great! I would like to see a change in some of the teaching. Some of the teachers I'm not sure if it is a specific degree, but the teachers have their way of....
Read 957 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 74%,
Net Price: $19,184,
SAT Range: 1010-1200,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Junior: At Judson Ive come to learn tons and I love the small school environment. For me i'm a hands on learner and having my professor at my immediate disposal especially with our small student teacher ratio I feel it benefits my learning experience. There are so many opportunities they offer for all majors to insure that you're successful later on. I love that I can be anywhere on campus within a ten minute walk. If there was one thing I wish I could see change would be housing, weather it be remodeling or allowing more option for off campus housing for out of state residents.... Read 271 reviews
Judson University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ELGIN, IL,
271 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says At Judson Ive come to learn tons and I love the small school environment. For me i'm a hands on learner and having my professor at my immediate disposal especially with our small student teacher....
Read 271 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 58%,
Net Price: $19,268,
SAT Range: 910-1140,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
Freshman: Certainly! At DeVry University, I've found an educational environment that truly supports my academic and professional growth. The faculty members are not just instructors but mentors who are deeply invested in my success. The curriculum is designed to be practical and relevant to real-world scenarios, allowing me to apply what I learn in meaningful ways. In my time at DeVry, I've had the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects and internships that have enhanced my learning experience and prepared me for my future career. These experiences have been invaluable in developing my skills and confidence. Looking ahead, I believe there are areas where DeVry University could further improve to better serve students like me. For instance, expanding opportunities for hands-on learning and providing more access to industry professionals for mentorship would greatly enhance our educational experience. Additionally, bolstering career services and resources for professional development .... Read 2,857 reviews
DeVry University - Illinois
4 Year,
NAPERVILLE, IL,
2857 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Certainly! At DeVry University, I've found an educational environment that truly supports my academic and professional growth. The faculty members are not just instructors but mentors who are deeply...In my time at DeVry, I've had the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects and internships that have enhanced my learning experience and prepared me for my future career. These experiences have...Looking ahead, I believe there are areas where DeVry University could further improve to better serve students like me. For instance, expanding opportunities for hands-on learning and providing more....
Read 2857 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 43%,
Net Price: $30,112,
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Governors State University
4 Year,
UNIVERSITY PARK, IL,
411 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says Governors State has a nice campus that is just the right to get to all classes in a timely manner. I like to see the diverse group of students that attend the school and the wide variety of programs....
Read 411 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 57%,
Net Price: $9,833,
SAT Range: 830-1060,
Will you get in? Compare Virtual tour
SponsoredCommunity College
Waubonsee Community College
2 Year·
SUGAR GROVE, IL
·
Rating 3.77 out of 5 639
SponsoredCollege
Wheaton College - Illinois
4 Year·
WHEATON, IL
·
Rating 3.99 out of 5 694
SponsoredCollege
ECPI University - Manassas, VA
2 Year·
MANASSAS, VA
·
Rating 4.29 out of 5 7

Best Colleges in Chicago

Whether you already live in the Chicago area or have always dreamt of living and studying there, we are more than happy to help connect you with the best colleges the city offers.

With our help, your search for the best college in Chicago will be 100% backed by facts and driven by actual student and faculty reviews. Your search for the best school is tailored to you and your needs. You can search by location, acceptance rate, tuition, and more! So let us help you find the right fit for you when it comes to Chicago's best colleges.

How Many Colleges Are There in Chicago?

As a state, Illinois boasts many excellent colleges and universities. And some of the best schools in the country can be found in Chicago, including the and . Both of these colleges are located right in the city — and they’re not the only ones!

Chicago has no shortage of great colleges to offer you as a student. Here at Niche, we can connect you with any of the 100+ four- and two-year colleges in the Chicago area. You have your pick of small schools that offer a more personalized touch, schools that offer a wide variety of academic programs, and even schools specific to your artistic passions, like the .

Are There Two-Year Degree Opportunities in Chicago?

As mentioned above, the Chicago area has a great mix of schools, including . Sometimes your career path might not require a traditional four-year degree. So if a four-year degree doesn't seem like the best fit for you, we can show you the many options that Chicago offers.

What Makes Chicago a Great Place To Study?

Chicago is a big city, with over 2.7 million people living within its limits. With that figure in mind, going to school in Chicago means having access to countless academic and professional networking opportunities.

And when you have the time to take a break from your studies, Chicago has nearly infinite ways to fill your time. On top of a great art and dining scene, Chicago is also synonymous with sports. Living in or around the city means being able to experience the electricity and energy that comes with going to a Sox, Cubs, Blackhawks, or Bulls game. Chicago is also famous for its deep-dish pizzas, which can be a lifesaver when you’re neck-deep in books.

Expand Your Horizons in Chicago

We know that success in college starts with connecting with the right college. Narrowing your choices to just one city, even one as dynamic as Chicago, may seem like limiting your options, but we’ve shown you that there’s more to Chicago than meets the eye.

Your search with us will help you expand your horizons and open your eyes to options you may not have known existed. With our help at Niche, you can find your best match at one of Chicago's top colleges.

2024 Best Colleges in the Chicago Area

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

Northwestern University

Northwestern University

University of Chicago

University of Chicago

Wheaton College - Illinois

Wheaton College - Illinois

University of Illinois Chicago

University of Illinois Chicago

DePaul University

DePaul University

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago

Lake Forest College

Lake Forest College

Moody Bible Institute

Moody Bible Institute

Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University

Trinity Christian College

Trinity Christian College

Northeastern Illinois University

Northeastern Illinois University

Indiana University - Northwest

Indiana University - Northwest

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University

Purdue University Northwest

Purdue University Northwest

National Louis University

National Louis University

North Park University

North Park University

Chicago State University

Chicago State University

North Central College

North Central College

University of St. Francis - Illinois

University of St. Francis - Illinois

Roosevelt University