Private nonprofit Institution

DePaul University — Chicago, Illinois

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Annual Tuition $44,460

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 73.5%

Moderately Open

Enrollment 14,283

Active Students

Avg. Salary $68,751

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Chicago, Illinois

Institution type Private nonprofit

Accreditation Higher Learning Commission

Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"DePaul University stands as a pillar of higher education in Chicago, providing a robust academic foundation for 14,283 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does DePaul University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at DePaul University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Business & Marketing

29.1%

Enrollment Share

Visual & Performing Arts

15.6%

Enrollment Share

Communications

9.7%

Enrollment Share

Computer Science

9.5%

Enrollment Share

Social Sciences

Enrollment Share

Psychology

6.3%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Visual & Performing Arts College

The Visual & Performing Arts program at DePaul University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Communications College

The Communications program at DePaul University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Computer Science College

The Computer Science department is a hub for cutting-edge research...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Social Sciences College

The Social Sciences program at DePaul University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Psychology College

Our Psychology program offers deep insights into human behavior...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at DePaul University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 73.5%

Difficulty Low

DePaul University maintains an acceptance rate of 73.5%, reflecting its status as a moderately open institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 44.9%

Women Enrollment 55.1%

Test Score Ranges (25th - 75th Percentile)

SAT

ACT

SAT Reading 570 - 680

SAT Mathematics 560 - 660

ACT English 25 - 33

ACT Mathematics 23 - 28

Expert Insight

Competitive scores often fall within or exceed these typical 50% benchmarks for admitted students.

How much does DePaul University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $44,460

Out-of-State Tuition $44,460

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 30.7%

Median Student Debt $23,168

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $44,460, graduates see a median starting salary of $68,751, making it one of the most affordable pathways in Illinois.

What salary can DePaul University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $68,751

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 70%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $29,141

Median Salary (6yr) $54,695

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at DePaul University in Chicago?

14,283 Students

Gender Comparison

44.9% Men

55.1% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

86.7%

Retention First-year

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian

0.1%

Pacific Islander

0.1%

Asian

12.1%

Black

7.7%

White

45.9%

Unknown

1.7%

Hispanic

24.2%

Two or More Races

4.5%

International

3.7%

Campus Demographics

🎂

Avg. Age at Entry 22

🎓

First-Generation 30.2%

💰

Receive Pell Grant 56.6%

🎖️

Veterans 0.6%

💍

Married Students 3.5%

🔄

Retention (Part-time) 28.6%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$76,598
Average Family Income	$74,921
Median Family Income	$48,556

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

52.6%

47.4%

Women Men

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Chicago Campus Environment

Located at 1 E Jackson Blvd, DePaul University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of Illinois. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

Get Directions Open in Google Maps

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How does DePaul University compare?

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Common Questions about DePaul University

Is DePaul University a good college in Chicago, Illinois?

DePaul University is a recognized institution in Chicago with an enrollment of 14,283 students. It is accredited by Higher Learning Commission and offers a robust ROI for students in Illinois based on Department of Education data.

Is DePaul University worth attending in 2026?

Yes, DePaul University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $68,751. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.

How much does DePaul University cost for Illinois residents in 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at DePaul University is approximately $44,460. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $44,460. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.

What is the real cost of DePaul University after financial aid and FAFSA?

The real cost of attending DePaul University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 56.6% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.

Is DePaul University good for Business & Marketing and Visual & Performing Arts programs?

DePaul University is highly regarded for its Business & Marketing and Visual & Performing Arts programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.

What career can I get after attending DePaul University?

Graduates of DePaul University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Business & Marketing. With a median salary of $68,751, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.

What are the admission requirements for DePaul University?

DePaul University operates with a Moderately Open policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.

Does DePaul University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

No, DePaul University follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.

What salary can DePaul University graduates expect after 10 years?

Graduates of DePaul University earn a median salary of $68,751 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.

Is DePaul University a good investment compared to other IL colleges?

DePaul University stands out as a high-value investment in Illinois. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.

Where is DePaul University located and what is the campus like?

DePaul University is located at 1 E Jackson Blvd in Chicago, IL. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 14,283 learners.

Who typically attends DePaul University in Chicago, IL?

The student body at DePaul University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 30.2% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.

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2026 Rankings: Illinois

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare DePaul University with other leading institutions in Illinois across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

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