School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Acceptance rate
77.5%
2025
Peer median 61.3%
Tuition per year
$54,623
$71,173 with room and board
Peer median $40,478
Undergraduates
2,805
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 9 : 1
Graduation rate
47.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 66.8%
Peer median 52.9%
“Peers” are all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) is a prestigious institution renowned for its innovative approach to art and design education. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, SAIC offers students an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the vibrant arts community of one of America’s largest cities. The school emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to explore a variety of artistic fields, including visual arts, design, and art history. With a commitment to fostering creativity and critical thinking, SAIC encourages students to develop their unique artistic voice while challenging conventional boundaries.
SAIC is home to a diverse and collaborative student body, creating a rich cultural environment that enhances the learning experience. The school prides itself on its distinguished faculty, comprised of accomplished artists, designers, and scholars who bring their expertise and real-world experience into the classroom. This supportive mentorship helps students to thrive both personally and professionally. Additionally, the campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, galleries, and exhibition spaces that provide students with the resources they need to experiment and showcase their work. Graduates of SAIC go on to achieve remarkable success in various fields, making significant contributions to the arts, culture, and society at large. With its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and community engagement, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago continues to be a leading force in nurturing the next generation of creative thinkers and innovators.
Analysis of Key Metrics at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The data from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago reveals several significant trends over the years, particularly regarding tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention.
Firstly, tuition costs have consistently increased over the years, with the total undergraduate tuition rising from approximately $40,585 in 2014 to $52,604 in 2024. This represents an increase of nearly 30% in a decade, which could raise concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students. Such increases are not uncommon across many private institutions, but they do highlight the financial burden that families face when considering higher education.
In terms of graduation rates, there has been a noticeable improvement, particularly in the 150% graduation rate, which rose from about 61% in 2013 to around 67% in 2023. This suggests that while students may face challenges during their studies, the institution is effectively supporting them towards completion over an extended period. This improvement is crucial as it reflects the institution's commitment to student success and can enhance its reputation.
Retention rates also show a positive trend, with the rate fluctuating between approximately 74% and 82% in recent years. Although the retention rate dipped significantly in 2021, it rebounded in 2022, indicating a potential response to the challenges faced during the pandemic. High retention rates are typically indicative of student satisfaction and engagement, crucial factors for any educational institution.
The shifting gender ratio among undergraduate students, with a consistent majority of female students, reflects broader societal changes in education. This trend is similar to many art and design schools where female enrollment has historically surpassed that of males.
In summary, while tuition increases pose challenges, the improvements in graduation and retention rates suggest that the School of the Art Institute of Chicago is effectively fostering a supportive learning environment, which is essential for student success in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Chicago
- Nearest international airport
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 9 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Jiseon Lee Isbara (President)
- Phone
- 3126296118
- Address
- 36 S Wabash, Chicago, IL 60603
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 61.3% · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 51.7%, women 58.7%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The data regarding admission rates and enrollment at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago reveals significant trends over the years. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants show a concerning decline from 2009 to 2023, indicating an increasingly competitive environment for prospective students. In 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 81.5%, while the female rate was close to 81.5% as well. Fast forward to 2023, the male acceptance rate dropped to around 71.8%, and the female rate to 80.9%. This shift illustrates how the institution has become more selective, likely due to a growing number of applicants which aligns with broader trends in higher education where top art schools are experiencing heightened interest.
Enrollment numbers also tell a compelling story. The highest enrollment occurred in 2009 with 731 new students, while in recent years, enrollment has fluctuated but generally remained stable, with 651 students enrolled in 2023. The number of students denied admission has increased dramatically, peaking at 2,840 denials in 2020. This increase in denial rates aligns with the competitive nature of art school admissions, suggesting that while the school is attracting more applicants, it is also becoming more discerning in its selections.
Overall, these trends reflect the changing landscape of art education, where institutions like the School of the Art Institute of Chicago are faced with the dual challenge of maintaining high standards of admission while accommodating a diverse and growing body of applicants. The implications of these trends are profound for prospective students who may have to navigate a more challenging application process in the future.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The admission data from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago presents a compelling narrative regarding the trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has shown fluctuations, peaking at 62% in 2020, reflecting perhaps a strategic effort to attract a broader range of applicants during that period.
When examining the SAT reading and math scores, there is a clear upward trajectory in the 25th to 75th percentile ranges until 2019, with a notable high of 580-670 for both sections. This indicates that the institution has been successful in attracting students with increasingly competitive academic backgrounds. However, there appears to be a stabilization from 2021 onwards, where the range has plateaued at 560-660, suggesting that the school may be focusing more on holistic admissions practices rather than purely on test scores.
Moreover, the decline in the percentage of applicants submitting scores in the recent years could correlate with a national trend where many colleges and universities are moving towards test-optional policies. This shift could encourage a more diverse applicant pool, emphasizing creativity and artistic merit over standardized test performance alone.
Overall, while the data underscores the importance of standardized tests in college admissions, it also highlights a potential shift in priorities at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, balancing academic rigor with the need to embrace a broader definition of student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
6,626 applicants in 2025, 77.5% admitted
5,133 admitted 1,493 not admitted Yield 11.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Fine/Studio Arts, General · Master's142 (40% international)
- Art History, Criticism and Conservation · Master's23 (35% international)
- Creative Writing · Master's18 (17% international)
- Art Therapy/Therapist · Master's17 (29% international)
- Art Teacher Education · Master's15 (27% international)
- Fine and Studio Arts Management · Master's12 (33% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The graduation data from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees across various artistic disciplines for the year 2023. Notably, there are no graduates with a bachelor's degree in any of the listed programs, which highlights a significant focus on advanced studies. Instead, the majority of graduates are pursuing master's degrees, particularly in Fine/Studio Arts and Art Therapy, with 144 and 20 graduates respectively. This trend suggests a growing emphasis on specialization and advanced training within the arts, possibly in response to the increasing complexity and competitiveness of the art industry.
International students also play a notable role, especially in master's programs. For instance, 57 of the 144 graduates in Fine/Studio Arts are international students, indicating that the program attracts a diverse and global cohort. This influx of international talent may enrich the learning environment and foster cross-cultural exchanges in artistic practices.
Interestingly, there are no graduates in the doctorate category across any program, which could reflect the relatively nascent development of doctoral programs in art disciplines or perhaps a trend where professionals seek practical experience rather than academic research in these fields. This absence may also signify an opportunity for the institution to expand its offerings to include advanced research-oriented programs that align with evolving career paths in the arts.
Overall, the data suggests a robust commitment to master's level education in the arts, while also revealing gaps that could be addressed to enhance the institution's academic landscape and its appeal to prospective students.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | ||
| Design and Applied Arts, Other. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $28,510-$39,327 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $28,510-$39,327 | ||
| Fine and Studio Arts Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | $35,300 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Therapy/Therapist. | $44,217 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Teacher Education. | $32,964 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology. | - |
Students
3,394 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 23:77 · Freshman retention 83.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,043
- First-year undergraduates 604
- Graduate students 589
- Transfers and others 158
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,805)
Data insights
Demographic Insights at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The student body at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago reflects a diverse and vibrant community in 2023. Among the undergraduate newcomers, a significant majority, 78.8%, are female, while only 21.2% are male. This trend continues among the undergraduate continuing students, with 74.4% of them identifying as female and 25.6% as male.
In terms of the overall graduate student demographic, the gender distribution is relatively balanced, with 73.9% of the graduate students being female and 26.1% male. Interestingly, the transfer student group shows a slightly higher male representation at 33.3%, with 66.7% female students.
When examining the racial demographics, white students represent a significant portion of the student population across all categories. Specifically, for the newcomers, 32.5% are white, while in the continuing students, this figure rises to 35.8%. The graduate demographic shows that 36.3% are white, indicating a consistent trend across different educational levels.
This data mirrors broader trends in higher education, where female students often outnumber male students, particularly in arts and humanities disciplines. The representation of white students suggests that while there is diversity, there is still work to be done to increase the presence of underrepresented groups. The ongoing discussions surrounding equity and inclusion in educational institutions highlight the importance of fostering an environment that supports all students, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.
Age Composition of Students at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The age distribution of students at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago presents a diverse and dynamic learning environment. A significant portion of the undergraduate population falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 72% of undergraduate females and around 47% of undergraduate males. This indicates that the institution attracts a large number of recent high school graduates, reflecting a trend seen across many universities where younger students seek out artistic education.
As students progress into their twenties, the numbers remain robust, especially among undergraduate females aged 20-21, where they represent about 62% of the total female undergraduate population. Interestingly, the data shows a slight increase in graduate male students in the 22-24 age bracket, indicating a trend where older, often more experienced individuals are pursuing advanced degrees in the arts.
The representation of older age groups, particularly those aged 30 and above, is notably smaller, suggesting that traditional student demographics dominate the institution. However, the presence of mature students in graduate programs reflects a growing trend of lifelong learning and professional development in the arts, as individuals return to education to refine their skills or pivot their careers.
This age distribution highlights the School of the Art Institute of Chicago as a hub for young talent while also acknowledging the valuable contributions of older students. Such diversity in age enhances the learning experience, fostering rich interactions and collaborations across different perspectives and artistic journeys. As the art world continues to evolve, institutions like this will play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of artists.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
783 in 2025 · 31.8% in 2016
204 in 2025 · 26.9% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Trends at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The data reflecting the international student population at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago reveals a notable upward trend over several years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students increased significantly, rising from 13.29% to 30.12%. This steady growth indicates the institution's appeal to students from various countries, likely driven by its strong reputation in the arts and design fields.
The graduate student demographic also shows a remarkable increase in the proportion of international students, peaking at 34.78% in 2018. This trend suggests that the graduate programs are particularly attractive to students from abroad, possibly due to the specialized and diverse offerings that align with global art and design practices.
It's important to consider the broader context in which these trends occur. The increasing international student presence aligns with a global shift toward embracing diversity in higher education. Institutions that foster multicultural environments not only enrich the educational experience but also prepare students for a global workforce.
However, challenges such as visa regulations and geopolitical tensions can impact these numbers. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, caused fluctuations in enrollment figures as travel restrictions were imposed. Despite these challenges, the resilience of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in maintaining a robust international student body reflects its commitment to inclusivity and global engagement.
Overall, the data highlights a growing recognition of the value that international students bring to the academic landscape, enhancing creativity and perspective within the institution. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, schools like the School of the Art Institute of Chicago will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global art and design education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$71,173
- Undergraduate tuition
- $54,623
- Room and board
- $16,550
- Graduate tuition
- $49,649
Peer median tuition + room and board $58,844 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Tuition rose 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$162M
Expenses$149M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
DePaul UniversityChicago · 0.2 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago · 1.4 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Illinois Institute of TechnologyChicago · 3.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of ChicagoChicago · 6.6 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 8.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 12.0 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 24.4 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 27.5 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Aurora UniversityAurora · 38.3 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the School of the Art Institute of Chicago:
-
University of Chicago - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, it is a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
-
Northwestern University - With a ranking of 9, Northwestern is renowned for its strong programs in various fields, including journalism, law, and business.
-
University of Illinois Chicago - This university is ranked 82nd and offers a diverse range of programs and a vibrant student community.
-
Illinois Institute of Technology - Ranked 98th, this institution specializes in engineering, science, and technology disciplines.
-
Loyola University Chicago - With a ranking of 142, Loyola is known for its commitment to social justice and a well-rounded education.
-
DePaul University - Ranked 151st, DePaul offers a variety of programs with a focus on practical experience and community engagement.
These institutions provide a rich academic environment and opportunities for collaboration across various fields of study.
Peer median 1.3 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The crime data from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago reveals interesting trends over the past decade. Starting from a crime rate of 14.41 per 1,000 students in 2013, there was a noticeable fluctuation in the average crime rates, peaking at 20.91 in 2020. This increase can be attributed to various factors, such as the socio-economic conditions at the time and possibly the impacts of the pandemic, which saw a rise in certain types of offenses.
The data indicates that while the crime rate decreased to 14.16 in 2022, it experienced a slight increase to 15.23 in 2023. This suggests that the campus environment, while relatively safe compared to other urban institutions, still faces challenges. Notably, incidents of gun arrests, drug-related offenses, and alcohol-related arrests appear to be significant contributors to the overall crime statistics.
Comparative analysis with similar institutions may be beneficial to understand the effectiveness of safety measures in place. Moreover, it is essential for the administration to prioritize student safety by implementing preventive measures and promoting awareness on campus. The continuous monitoring of these statistics is crucial for creating a secure educational atmosphere, where students can focus on their artistic endeavors without the concern of crime.
For further understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 62Notable alumni of School of the Art Institute of Chicago include Orson Welles (Actor and filmmaker in film, radio and theatre), Georgia O'Keeffe (Modernist painter, Mother of American modernism) and Hugh Hefner (Founder of Playboy magazine).
-
Orson Welles 1915–1985
Actor and filmmaker in film, radio and theatre
-
Georgia O'Keeffe 1887–1986
Modernist painter, Mother of American modernism
-
Hugh Hefner 1926–2017
Founder of Playboy magazine
-
Ed Harris 1950–
Actor and director, three-time Oscar nominee
-
Lara Flynn Boyle 1970–
Actress known for Twin Peaks
-
Kim Novak 1933–
Actress and two-time Golden Globe winner
-
Grant Wood 1891–1942
Painter of American Gothic
-
Jeff Koons 1955–
Artist known for stainless steel sculptures
-
Shulamith Firestone 1945–2012
Radical feminist writer and activist
See all 62 notable alumni of School of the Art Institute of Chicago →
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.