Stanford vs UChicago
How Stanford and UChicago stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Stanford | UChicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 3.61% | 4.48% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1500-1570 | 1500-1580 |
| Testing policy | Required | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | CA | IL |
| Sticker price (per year) | $90,000 | $87,390 |
| Average cost after aid | $17,000 | $28,150 |
| Supplemental essays | 8 | 2 |
- Stanford is harder to get into than UChicago (3.61% versus 4.48%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Stanford is usually the cheaper option ($17,000 versus $28,150 per year on average).
- On testing, Stanford requires SAT or ACT scores while UChicago is test-optional.
- Stanford asks for more supplemental writing (8 essays versus 2), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Stanford vs UChicago FAQ
Is Stanford or UChicago harder to get into?
Stanford is harder to get into, admitting about 3.61% of applicants versus 4.48% at UChicago.
Is Stanford or UChicago cheaper?
After financial aid, Stanford is usually cheaper, about $17,000 per year on average versus $28,150 at UChicago.
See your real chances at Stanford and UChicago.
Build my college list