Columbia College Chicago Stats
-
Established
1890
-
Acceptance Rate
91%
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Average Cost
$29,790.00
Columbia College Chicago is a private, not-for-profit institution located in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. With an enrollment of 6,529 students, including 6,344 undergraduates, the college focuses on fostering creativity and innovation. Its mission is to empower students through a diverse range of programs, including popular majors like Cinematography, Graphic Design, and Health Information Technology. Columbia College Chicago aims to prepare graduates for successful careers in the arts, media, and health sectors, emphasizing hands-on learning and real-world experience.
Columbia College Chicago Financial Aid & Scholarships
Columbia College Chicago is committed to making education affordable and accessible by offering a variety of financial aid options. The college provides need-based and merit-based financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loans. On average, students receive around $15,000 in financial aid annually. Columbia College Chicago participates in federal and state financial aid programs, and students are encouraged to apply for aid through the FAFSA. The college also offers payment plans to help manage tuition costs.
Scholarships
Columbia College Chicago offers a range of scholarships to support students' educational pursuits. These include the Presidential Scholarship, which awards up to $12,000 annually based on academic achievement, and the Dean's Scholarship, offering up to $10,000 per year. The college also provides the Columbia Scholar Award, which is a need-based scholarship for students demonstrating significant financial need. Additionally, there are numerous departmental scholarships available for students pursuing specific majors or demonstrating exceptional talent in their field.
To apply for financial aid at Columbia College Chicago, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using the school code 001665. The priority deadline for submitting the FAFSA is March 1st. Students are also encouraged to explore and apply for scholarships through the college's scholarship portal, where they can find opportunities tailored to their academic and personal achievements. For departmental scholarships, students should contact their respective departments for specific application requirements and deadlines. The financial aid office is available to assist students with any questions or concerns throughout the application process.
Scholarships available
6
Aactea Scholarship
- Merit based
- Win up to $500
Aapina Scholarship
- Essay required
- Win up to $500
Aaron Alley Memorial Scholarship
- Merit based
- Essay required
- Win up to $2,000
Aaron William Guynn Memorial Scholarship
- Essay required
- Win up to $500
2017 Great Whites Scholarship
- Essay required
- Win up to $850
Aasea Legacy Scholarship
- Award Amount Varies

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Columbia College Chicago Student Life
Columbia College Chicago is home to approximately 6,700 students, with a majority of 6,000 undergraduates and 700 graduate students. The college is known for its diverse and inclusive environment, with international students making up about 10% of the student body. Columbia College Chicago has a welcoming admission rate of around 90%, reflecting its commitment to providing access to a wide range of creative and academic opportunities.
Total Students
~ 6
UG Students
100%
PG Students
11666.7%
International Students
~ 10%
UG Students
100%
PG Students
11666.7%
- 90% Acceptance Rate
Student Life & Campus Info
Sports
While Columbia College Chicago does not have varsity sports teams, it offers various recreational activities and fitness opportunities. Students can participate in intramural sports and make use of fitness facilities to maintain an active lifestyle.
Facilities
The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Media Production Center, which supports film and media arts students, and the Conaway Center, a hub for events and performances. The college's urban setting provides students with access to Chicago's rich cultural and artistic resources.
Organizations
Columbia College Chicago offers a vibrant student life with over 177 student organizations. These include a cappella groups, academic societies, and clubs focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Student Engagement and Leadership office provides resources and meeting spaces for student groups, fostering a dynamic campus community.
Columbia College Chicago Housing
Columbia's housing features include fully furnished apartments with modern amenities, communal spaces for socializing and studying, and 24-hour security. The residence halls are integrated into the vibrant urban environment of downtown Chicago, offering students easy access to cultural and artistic resources.
While Columbia College Chicago does not guarantee housing for all students, it prioritizes housing assignments for incoming freshmen and transfer students. Returning students can apply for housing through a lottery system based on availability.
Columbia College Chicago offers a variety of on-campus housing options primarily designed for first-year and transfer students. The college provides apartment-style living in several residence halls, including The University Center, The Dwight, and The Arc, each located within walking distance of the main campus buildings.
Columbia College Chicago Reviews
"Columbia College Chicago's focus on hands-on experience is amazing. The city itself is your campus, offering endless creative inspiration."
"Great location and industry connections, but some equipment could use updating. Overall, a solid choice for creative careers."
"The faculty are working professionals, providing invaluable real-world insights. Loved the collaborative and artistic atmosphere!"
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FAQs
Columbia College offers a variety of programs including Dietetic Technician, Nursing, Medical Office Assistant, Criminal Justice, Fire Science, Graphic Design, and many more. For a complete list, please visit the official website.
To apply for a program at Columbia College, you can complete the application form available on the college's official website. Make sure to follow the instructions provided for submitting your application.
The application period for Columbia College typically opens in the spring. For specific dates, please check the official website.
Admission requirements vary by program but generally include a completed application, transcripts, and possibly standardized test scores. For detailed requirements, refer to the program-specific information on the official website.
You can check the status of your application by logging into your account on the Columbia College application portal or by contacting the admissions office directly.
Application deadlines vary by program. Please visit the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on deadlines.
Financial aid information can be found on the Columbia College financial aid webpage, which provides details on scholarships, grants, and loans available to students.
For help with your application, you can contact the admissions office via email or phone. Their contact information is available on the official website.
Columbia College evaluates applications based on academic performance, relevant experience, and other criteria specific to each program. For more details, check the admissions section of the official website.
Choosing Columbia College means gaining access to a diverse range of programs, experienced faculty, and a supportive learning environment that prepares you for your career. Explore more about the college's unique offerings on the official website.