Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about the Advanced Scholars program at the University of Chicago
Eligibility
This program is open to current undergraduates who are in their junior (3rd) year at an accredited college or university in the U.S.
The Advanced Scholars Program is just one pathway to apply to select UChicago graduate programs. We encourage all interested students to get in touch with their program of interest to learn more about applying directly in their senior year or beyond.
You can view the 12 participating programs here.
UChicago offers dozens of graduate programs beyond those in Advanced Scholars. Please visit your program's Admissions page for more information about applying in your senior year or beyond.
Absolutely! The Advanced Scholars Program values a diversity of backgrounds and recognizes that students may be interested in pursuing a master's program unrelated to their bachelor's degree. Master's programs are a great opportunity to gain technical knowledge and pivot into a new field. Due to the fast-paced nature of the 9-15 month master's programs, many will operate on some level of assumed knowledge or provide supplemental resources in the summer before matriculation.
Application Materials
The application requires an unofficial transcript, resume, two letters of recommendation, and a program supplement. Please see the How to Apply section for more information.
The application will require you digitally upload a self-reported unofficial transcript. Please do not mail transcripts as part of your admission application; we only require unofficial uploads for application evaluation. If you are offered admission, one official transcript for each university you attended will be required upon graduating from your undergraduate institution.
No, test scores are not required for the Advanced Scholars application.
No. We expect your mastery of the English language will come through in supplemental materials and what your recommenders say about your academic performance.
All applicants must submit two letters of recommendation. At least one recommender must have taught you in an undergraduate course.
We practice a holistic review process. While more is not always better, we are happy to receive additional materials you feel put your best foot forward. You can submit these on your portal after submitting your application.
Admissions
Yes, applicants can rank up to three master's programs using their Advanced Scholars application.
Based on the fast-paced nature and rigor of 9-15 month master's programs, faculty have found students have the most success if they come in with a strong academic foundation. This is captured by the listed GPA and coursework criteria. You are strongly encouraged to have completed coursework equivalent to what's listed before matriculation into the master's program. However, admissions decisions are made holistically and within your individual context.
Students who are not admitted as Advanced Scholars are welcome to apply directly to UChicago's master's programs in their senior year or beyond.
The application fee is $90 and allows you to rank up to three master's programs participating in the Advanced Scholars Program.
Decisions are typically made within 4-6 weeks of the application deadline. View the deadlines and notification dates for this cycle here.
No. After admission, you'll have several months to learn more about your master's program and campus through info sessions, virtual coffee chats, and a summer session on campus. Students will be asked to make a deposit September 1st.
After Admission
The participating master's programs are 9-15 months.
You're expected to matriculate the fall after you complete your undergraduate degree. UChicago is on the quarter system and fall classes typically begin in late September. Some master's programs may have bootcamps or required orientation sessions in the summer. You'll receive more information upon confirming your spot in the program.
Admitted students' offer letters will outline expectations for matriculating into the master's program. In general, students are expected to maintain the academic standard portrayed in their initial application and to complete any coursework pre-requisites laid out by the master's program. Admitted students will be invited to info sessions, virtual coffee chats, and on-campus programming to learn more about their future academic home. Admitted students are asked to confirm their place in the master's program by fall of their senior year.
Limited merit-based aid is available for extraordinary candidates. No full tuition scholarships are available. Applicants will be automatically considered for merit-based aid. No additional materials are required.
Other Questions?
General questions about the Advanced Scholars Program? Please contact Liz Schutz at lizschutz@uchicago.edu.
Questions about a specific program? Please reach out to their admission team directly.