Overview
VanderCook College of Music is an open admission private four-year institution in Chicago, Illinois. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
VanderCook College of Music accepts all qualified applicants, making your application process straightforward. You'll need to submit a completed application, official transcripts from all previous schools, and an audition recording or live audition on your primary instrument or voice. The college requires a personal statement explaining your interest in music education, since the school exclusively trains music teachers.
Schedule your audition early in the application cycle. You can audition live on campus or submit a recorded audition with specific repertoire requirements that vary by instrument. Piano students must demonstrate proficiency in classical technique, jazz styles, and sight-reading skills. Voice students need to prepare art songs in English and one foreign language.
Housing fills quickly despite the small student body size. Submit your housing application immediately after acceptance to secure a spot in the residence hall. The college provides practice rooms available 24 hours, which you'll use extensively given the intensive nature of music education training.
Expect a demanding curriculum that combines music performance, music theory, education pedagogy, and student teaching requirements. You'll begin observing and teaching in Chicago Public Schools during your sophomore year. The college requires proficiency on piano regardless of your primary instrument, so brush up on keyboard skills before arriving.
Financial aid packages often make VanderCook affordable despite the private school sticker price. Complete your FAFSA early to maximize aid opportunities. The school's location in Chicago's South Loop puts you near Symphony Center and other professional music venues where you can observe master teachers and attend concerts relevant to your studies.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $17,094/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $30,910
- Students Receiving Aid
- 28%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 46.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $47,863/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 66.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does VanderCook College of Music require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
VanderCook College of Music has test-optional admissions, meaning standardized test scores are not required for most applicants.
What is the application deadline for VanderCook College of Music?
VanderCook operates on rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received throughout the academic year.
Does VanderCook College of Music require an audition for admission?
Yes, all prospective students must complete a musical audition as part of the application process since VanderCook focuses specifically on music education.
Can I transfer credits to VanderCook College of Music from another school?
VanderCook accepts transfer students and evaluates credits from regionally accredited institutions on a case-by-case basis.