10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Chicago, IL (2025)

Chicago, IL is a key hub for the arts, entertainment, research, and technology in the Midwest region.

Students looking to study in the area can take advantage of a range of excellent colleges near Chicago, IL.

Earning a degree in Chicago can allow students to enhance their knowledge and skills while enjoying the vibrant culture of the windy city.

Featured Colleges in Chicago, IL

Here are some of the best colleges near Chicago, IL.

1. University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is the largest university in the city of Chicago. About half of the 34,000 students are first-generation college students.

UIC is committed to diversity and equality in higher education making it a welcoming atmosphere for students of all backgrounds.

The university has won awards for its impact on social mobility. UIC students will gain the practical skills they need to

UIC is a noted research institution and has made an impact across many different fields of study.

2. DePaul University

DePaul University (DU) offers a diverse range of high-quality degrees at different levels of study.

The university offers over 130 undergraduate majors and 170 graduate programs across 10 colleges.

DU does a great job preparing students for career success. Over 60% of students complete an internship.

97% of incoming students receive a scholarship and the university gives out over 57 million in aid each year.

3. Loyola University

Located in the heart of Chicago, Loyola University (LU) allows students to earn a respected degree at a great value.

The university has won awards for the quality of its undergraduate teaching and also boasts notable business and nursing programs.

LU Students will benefit from a rich and diverse campus life with over 250 student-run organizations and clubs in operation.

Students can also reduce their tuition costs by applying for academic scholarships worth up to $25,000 per year.

4. Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is committed to making sure each student receives a good return on their educational investment.

IIT has a career placement rate of over 90% and has won awards for its impact on students' occupational outcomes.

The university has a global network of over 86,000 alumni who can help graduates find roles in technology, nonprofit organizations, and startups.

The campus is less than a mile from Lake Michigan and enables students to explore the exciting city of Chicago.

5. Northeastern Illinois University

Northeastern Illinois University is another strong choice for a Chicago-based degree program.

The innovative public university helps students from all backgrounds achieve their dreams by increasing the accessibility of higher education.

A helpful financial aid team will identify a wide range of federal, state, and institutional forms of need-based and merit-based aid.

Students can access academic scholarships like the President's Scholarship valued at over $60,000 throughout the degree.

6. National Louis University

National Louis University (NLU) has been inspiring students with a range of high-quality degree programs.

Over 70 programs are offered at undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels. NLU degrees have a career focus that makes them a great investment.

Students will pay $12,333 per year in tuition costs regardless of what state they are from.

Several scholarships are available for students from low-income backgrounds. NLU maintains a strong commitment to diversity and accessibility in higher education.

7. Chicago State University

Students looking for a well-rounded education should consider Chicago State University's comprehensive degrees.

Over 70 programs are offered across many fields and an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures that students can personally connect with instructors.

The degree increases the social mobility of graduates with $843,000 in additional lifetime earnings for bachelor's degrees.

The Rise Scholarship can cover students' tuition, fees, and textbooks for four years.

8. DeVry University

DeVry University is helping students move into the future with its cutting-edge degrees.

All programs are designed with relevant industry standards in mind and provide students with the foundational professional skills needed to succeed.

Students can access 24/7 tutoring as well as career services and technological support.

Devry University offers dozens of institutional and departmental scholarships to keep students' out-of-pocket costs low.

9. Roosevelt University

Roosevelt University (RU) is another great option for students looking for colleges in Chicago, IL.

RU is one of the most affordable private colleges in the region and is constantly seeking to increase the inclusivity of education.

Students can choose between a downtown Chicago campus and a suburban campus slightly outside the city.

RU offers students up to $20,095 in grants and scholarships.

10. North Park University

North Park University (NPU) offers over 40 reputable degree programs at the undergraduate level.

Students can choose from traditional campus-based study, online programs, or degree completion programs.

NPU maintains a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio to ensure that each student gets the personalized instruction they need to thrive.

The financial aid team will help students find all possible sources of funding. Over 99% of students receive financial aid.

What Is the Biggest School Near Chicago, IL?

The biggest college near Chicago, IL is the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). UIC is a large public university with a student body of over 34,000.

How To Choose the Right College Near Chicago, IL

Finding the right fit in a college program depends on many personal factors unique to each student.

Students should consider their personal interests, career goals, financial position, and academic ability to select a degree that fits their needs.

Reaching out to the faculty in the department you are interested in can be a great way to get a sense of the program.

Paying for Your Degree Near Chicago, IL

Paying for a college degree can be difficult. Thankfully, there are a range of funding options that can significantly reduce students' out-of-pocket costs.

Make sure to speak with the financial aid team at any potential institution to identify all sources of funding. Students will need to fill out the FAFSA form to determine their eligibility for many programs.

Grants like the federal Pell Grant can provide resources to students based on their financial needs.

Public colleges are also often an affordable choice for students who are state residents. Affordable private universities can also be a good choice.

Start Your Degree Near Chicago, IL Today

Some of the country's best colleges are located near Chicago, IL. Find a degree that supports your goals and start learning today.