Overview
DePaul University is a less selective private four-year institution in Chicago, Illinois. The school accepts 70.2% of applicants and enrolls 14,283 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 70.2%
- Average SAT
- 1,185
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,070–1,300
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 14,283
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Submit your application through the Common Application or DePaul's online portal by February 1 for fall admission, though DePaul accepts applications on a rolling basis and will consider later submissions if space remains. You'll need your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The Theatre School and School of Music require auditions and have much more competitive admission processes than DePaul's general admission. Business programs, particularly accounting, also draw more applicants and maintain higher standards. Computer science has grown increasingly selective due to strong job outcomes.
Housing applications open in February, and you should apply early since popular residence halls like University Hall fill quickly. First-year students must live on campus unless they live within 25 miles of the Lincoln Park campus with family.
DePaul operates on a quarter system rather than semesters, so your academic year runs from late September through early June with three ten-week terms. This affects course scheduling, study abroad timing, and internship planning differently than semester schools.
The Lincoln Park campus in Chicago's north side houses most undergraduate programs, while the Loop campus downtown focuses on business, law, and graduate programs. Your program determines which campus you'll primarily attend, though some classes may require travel between locations via the university shuttle or public transit.
Financial aid applications require the FAFSA by March 1 for priority consideration. DePaul offers merit scholarships that don't require separate applications, but submit your admission materials early to maximize your chances for aid consideration.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $29,141/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $44,460
- Students Receiving Aid
- 31%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 70.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $68,751/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 86.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DePaul University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
DePaul University is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for DePaul University?
DePaul University has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of November 15 for early action and February 1 for regular decision.
How many credit hours can transfer students bring to DePaul University?
DePaul University accepts up to 90 quarter hours or 60 semester hours of transfer credit. Students must complete at least 45 quarter hours at DePaul to earn a degree.
Does DePaul University offer early decision or early action?
DePaul University offers non-binding early action with a November 15 deadline. The school does not offer early decision.