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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Moody Bible Institute

Chicago, Illinois · www.moody.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

82.7%

2025

Peer median 81.8%

Tuition per year

$15,786

$29,196 with room and board

Peer median $11,500

Undergraduates

1,547

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 12 : 1

Graduation rate

40.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 60.1%

Peer median 5.7%

“Peers” are all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Moody Bible Institute, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to biblical education and training. Founded in 1886 by evangelist D.L. Moody, the institute has a long-standing tradition of equipping individuals for Christian ministry through rigorous academic programs grounded in Scripture. The school’s mission is to "prepare students for a life of faith and service," and this is reflected in its comprehensive curriculum that includes degrees in theology, ministry, music, and communication. The institute emphasizes a practical approach to education, combining classroom learning with hands-on ministry experience, which is instrumental for students looking to make a positive impact in their communities.

The campus environment at Moody Bible Institute fosters a strong sense of community and spiritual growth. With a diverse student body that represents various backgrounds and cultures, students engage in rich discussions and collaborative projects that enhance their learning experience. Moody's campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a library rich in theological resources, modern classrooms, and spaces for worship and fellowship. The institute also encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and service organizations, which contribute to a well-rounded student life. Notable alumni include influential pastors, missionaries, and authors who have significantly contributed to Christian thought and practice, thus highlighting the institute’s legacy in shaping leaders for the future. Overall, Moody Bible Institute stands out not only for its academic rigor but also for its nurturing community that inspires students to live out their faith in tangible ways.

Trends in Tuition and Student Enrollment

Over the years, Moody Bible Institute has experienced significant changes in tuition fees and student enrollment, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $11,356 in 2014 to $16,178 in 2023, representing an increase of approximately 42%. This surge in tuition costs may be attributed to various factors, including inflation, increased operational costs, and investments in campus facilities and resources. The rising cost of education continues to be a pressing concern for students and families, as it can lead to increased student debt and may deter prospective students from pursuing higher education.

In contrast, student enrollment figures have shown a decline over the same period. For instance, undergraduate enrollment decreased from 3,103 in 2014 to just 1,753 in 2023, marking a decline of around 43%. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that many institutions face shrinking enrollment numbers, partly due to demographic shifts and changing perceptions of the value of a college degree. As potential students weigh the costs against potential returns, institutions may need to reevaluate their offerings to attract and retain students.

Moreover, the retention rate has also fluctuated, with a notable decline from 83.5% in 2013 to approximately 74.8% in 2023. This decline in retention may suggest that students are struggling to find satisfaction or success in their academic endeavors, which can be exacerbated by rising tuition costs. Ensuring student success and satisfaction will be crucial for the institution to reverse these negative trends and foster a supportive environment conducive to learning and growth.

In summary, while Moody Bible Institute has seen significant increases in tuition, the concurrent decline in student enrollment and retention rates highlights the challenges faced by higher education institutions today. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing strategies to enhance student engagement and academic success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Chicago
Nearest international airport
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 10 mi
Chicago, Illinois
Also known as
Moody Theological Seminary and Graduate School; Moody Theological Seminary and Graduate School--Michigan; Moody Bible Institute Aviation--Spokane
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Interdenominational
President
Mark Jobe (President)
Phone
3123294000
City
Chicago, Illinois
Address
820 N LaSalle Blvd, Chicago, IL 60610-3284

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 81.8% · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
84.6%
Women
81.0%

In 2020: men 89.5%, women 98.3%.

Data insights

Analysis of Moody Bible Institute Admission Trends

The admission data for Moody Bible Institute over the years reveals significant trends that merit discussion. Starting with the acceptance rates for males and females, we see a noteworthy fluctuation. In 2010, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 75.5%, while females had a slightly lower rate at around 74.9%. However, by 2019, the acceptance rates for both genders soared, reaching 92.2% for males and an impressive 97.7% for females. This change indicates a shift towards a more inclusive admission strategy, potentially reflecting the institution's commitment to diversity and outreach.
Enrollment numbers have also varied significantly, with the highest recorded enrollment of 560 in 2015, which coincided with a relatively competitive admission climate. Interestingly, the number of applicants denied also saw peaks, particularly in 2014, when 322 applicants were turned away, suggesting a more stringent selection process during that period.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions exhibits a consistent trend, with a notable peak in 2010, where 439 students were allowed to defer their enrollment. This could indicate a growing recognition of the challenges prospective students face, allowing them flexibility in their academic journey.
Overall, the data reflects Moody Bible Institute's evolving admission landscape, balancing competitiveness with inclusivity. This trend could be attributed to broader educational shifts towards accommodating diverse student needs, as seen across many institutions, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced many schools to rethink their admission strategies. The commitment to nurturing a diverse student body is evident, and it will be interesting to see how these trends continue to develop in the coming years.

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 Moody Bible Institute Admission Scores

The data from Moody Bible Institute reveals a consistent trend in standardized test scores over the years, particularly in SAT and ACT assessments. Notably, the reading scores for the SAT have shown a gradual increase, with the 25th percentile starting from 510 in 2010 and rising to 530 by 2020. This upward movement in scores indicates a potential enhancement in the academic caliber of incoming students.

Furthermore, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has remained relatively stable, with a notable 42% submission rate in 2010, which has fluctuated over the years but maintained a presence in the 14% to 30% range in subsequent years. This suggests that while the number of students submitting scores has varied, the overall interest in higher education remains significant.

The ACT scores, particularly in composite and mathematics sections, reflect a similar trend with slight increases in the 25th to 75th percentile ranges. These figures suggest that the institution is attracting students with stronger academic backgrounds, which may be reflective of broader educational trends where students are increasingly preparing for college entrance exams.

Overall, the steady improvement in standardized test scores, coupled with a stable submission rate, points to Moody Bible Institute's commitment to maintaining rigorous academic standards. This trend aligns with national data suggesting that colleges are becoming more selective as they seek to enhance their academic profiles.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

387 applicants in 2025, 82.7% admitted

320 admitted 67 not admitted Yield 65.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate191 international (5.3%)
Bachelor's36530 international (8.2%)
Master's17931 international (17.3%)
Doctoral20 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other
104
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other
56
Bible/Biblical Studies
52
Missions/Missionary Studies
46
Theology/Theological Studies
30
Pastoral Studies/Counseling
29
Religious Education
17
Youth Ministry
11
Women's Ministry
9
Worship Ministry
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Bible/Biblical Studies · Master's51 (12% international)
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's32 (25% international)
  • Divinity/Ministry · Master's31 (10% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's29 (21% international)
  • Theology and Religious Vocations, Other · Master's25 (28% international)
  • Pastoral Studies/Counseling · Master's8 (13% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Moody Bible Institute

The graduation data from Moody Bible Institute in 2023 reveals important trends in religious education and its various specializations. Notably, the fields of Divinity/Ministry and Biblical Studies see a significant number of graduates at the master's level, with 42 and 43 graduates, respectively. This suggests a sustained interest in advanced theological education, which may reflect the growing demand for well-trained leaders in various ministry contexts.

Furthermore, the data highlights the lack of international students pursuing degrees at the bachelor's and doctorate levels, as indicated by zero graduates in these categories. This absence could point to potential barriers for international students or a need for enhanced recruitment strategies to attract a more diverse student body.

In the context of broader educational trends, the increasing emphasis on mental health counseling within religious frameworks, as evidenced by 20 graduates, indicates a critical intersection between faith and mental health services. This aligns with contemporary discussions surrounding the mental health crisis and the role that religious institutions can play in addressing these issues.

Lastly, the absence of graduates in several other categories, particularly in associate degrees, suggests a need for expansion and diversification of programs to meet the needs of a wider audience. Overall, the data underscores the importance of adapting educational offerings to prepare graduates for the evolving landscape of ministry and service in today's world.

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

Theology has 535 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Bible/Biblical Studies.$37,000-$74,341
Missions/Missionary Studies.$34,945
Religious Education.$34,169
Religious/Sacred Music.-
Worship Ministry.-
Theology/Theological Studies.$43,621-$61,079
Divinity/Ministry.$43,621-$61,079
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other.$43,621-$61,079
Pastoral Studies/Counseling.$39,557
Youth Ministry.$39,557
Women's Ministry.$39,557
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other.$39,557
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other.$38,091-$39,996
Health professionshas 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Educationhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language, Other.-

Students

2,202 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 54:46 · Freshman retention 83.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,547)

White
712 · 46.0%
Unknown
420 · 27.1%
International
127 · 8.2%
Hispanic
110 · 7.1%
Black
78 · 5.0%
Two or more races
56 · 3.6%
Asian
40 · 2.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Moody Bible Institute for 2023

The student body of Moody Bible Institute in 2023 presents intriguing insights into its demographic composition and gender representation. The undergraduate new students total 164, with a slightly higher percentage of males at 52.4% compared to females at 47.6%. This balanced gender ratio is encouraging, as it indicates an inclusive environment for both genders among new entrants.

In contrast, the undergraduate continuing students, numbering 1,297, show a marginally higher male representation of 51.3% against 48.7% for females, suggesting a stable retention rate across genders. However, the undergraduate transfer students present an interesting shift, with females constituting 52.9% while males account for 47.1%. This may suggest that female transfer students are more likely to seek educational opportunities at Moody, highlighting a potential area for outreach and support for male students transferring into the institution.

Graduate students, totaling 657, exhibit a significantly higher male representation at 59.8%. This discrepancy could reflect broader trends in graduate education, where certain fields attract more male candidates. It raises questions about the factors influencing these gender dynamics at the graduate level.

Additionally, the presence of 37 non-degree students indicates a smaller segment of the population, but their gender distribution remains fairly balanced. Overall, Moody Bible Institute's student demographics for 2023 showcase a diverse and relatively balanced enrollment, with fluctuations in gender ratios across different categories that merit further exploration to understand the underlying trends and influences.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Moody Bible Institute

The age distribution of students at Moody Bible Institute reveals intriguing insights into the composition of its student body. The largest group comprises students aged 18-21, which is typical for undergraduate institutions. This demographic includes a significant number of both male and female undergraduates, indicating a healthy influx of young students eager to pursue their education in a religious context.

Interestingly, as we observe the age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students in their mid to late twenties (25-29 years). This could suggest that many students are either entering the workforce earlier or choosing to pursue studies later in life, reflecting broader trends in higher education where adult learners are increasingly common. The presence of graduate students in their thirties and forties also highlights a commitment to lifelong learning and the pursuit of advanced education, a trend that has been gaining momentum in recent years.

Moreover, the ratio of male to female students varies across age groups, with a more balanced representation in younger cohorts but a higher number of female students in the graduate category. This shift could reflect broader societal changes, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.

Overall, the age composition at Moody Bible Institute not only sheds light on the institution's appeal to traditional college-age students but also underscores the growing trend of diverse ages and backgrounds in higher education, aligning with national statistics that show an increase in non-traditional students enrolling in colleges and universities across the country.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Undergraduates8.2%

127 in 2025 · 7.1% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 7.1%2017: 8.3%2018: 8.8%2019: 7.6%2020: 7.7%2021: 7.7%2022: 9.2%2023: 10.3%2024: 9.7%2025: 8.2%
2016Peer median 0.9%2025
Graduate students12.4%

81 in 2025 · 16.7% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 16.7%2017: 14.5%2018: 14.6%2019: 11.7%2020: 11.4%2021: 11.0%2022: 11.8%2023: 12.6%2024: 14.0%2025: 12.4%
2016Peer median 3.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Moody Bible Institute

The data on international students at Moody Bible Institute reveals significant trends over the years from 2004 to 2023. In the undergraduate category, the number of international students has seen a general increase, peaking in 2015 with 254 students, before experiencing fluctuations in subsequent years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduates has risen from 6.71% in 2004 to 10.27% in 2023, indicating a growing diversity within the undergraduate population.

In the graduate segment, the percentage of international students has shown more variability, reaching a high of 17.08% in 2015, followed by a decline to 11.00% in 2021. However, there seems to be a slight recovery, with figures rising to 12.63% by 2023. This fluctuation may reflect broader trends in higher education, where global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in immigration policies impact international student enrollment.

The overall growth in the international student population at Moody Bible Institute suggests an increasing appeal of the institution for students from abroad. This trend aligns with the national picture, where many universities in the United States are actively seeking to enhance their global presence and attract diverse student bodies. The increasing engagement of international students enriches the academic environment and fosters cross-cultural understanding, essential in today’s interconnected world.

As Moody Bible Institute continues to adapt to these trends, it will be important for the institution to maintain its support services for international students to ensure their academic success and integration into campus life.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$29,196

Undergraduate tuition
$15,786
Room and board
$13,410
Graduate tuition
$9,702
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $18,400 · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Tuition rose 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 36%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$140M

Gifts and private grants
$59.5M42.6%
Investment return
$28.1M20.1%
Tuition and fees
$14.4M10.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$11.3M8.1%
Other
$26.4M18.9%

Expenses$129M

Public service
$47.8M37.2%
Instruction
$24.3M18.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$11.7M9.1%
Institutional support
$11.5M8.9%
Academic support
$6.9M5.3%
Student services
$6.6M5.2%
Other
$19.8M15.4%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

All faculty
$82,916peers $51,151
Professor
$94,510peers $65,885
Associate professor
$78,069peers $62,250
Assistant professor
$69,024peers $57,312
Instructor
$68,291peers $41,066

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCCAA
2025
NCCAA Division II MENWOMEN
Cross Country1113
Basketball9-
Volleyball-9
2024
NCCAA Division IIMENWOMEN
Basketball12-
Cross Country-10
Volleyball-10
2023
NCCAA Division IIMENWOMEN
Soccer17-
Basketball12-
Cross Country-10
Volleyball-9

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Moody Bible Institute:

  1. DePaul University - Ranked 151 in the 2024 US News, DePaul University is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and strong emphasis on experiential learning.

  2. University of Illinois Chicago - With a rank of 82, the University of Illinois Chicago is a leading public research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in health sciences and engineering.

  3. Illinois Institute of Technology - Ranked 98, this comprehensive university specializes in engineering, science, and architecture, providing students with a strong technical education.

  4. Loyola University Chicago - This university holds the 142nd rank and is known for its commitment to social justice, offering a variety of liberal arts and professional programs.

  5. University of Chicago - As a prestigious institution ranked 12th, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and notable contributions to research and scholarship.

  6. Northwestern University - With a top rank of 9, Northwestern is a leading private research university that offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing interdisciplinary studies.

  7. Wheaton College - This liberal arts college is ranked 56 and is known for its strong Christian values and commitment to liberal arts education.

  8. University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th, Notre Dame is a prestigious Catholic university known for its excellent academic programs and vibrant campus life.

These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, offering a variety of educational opportunities near Moody Bible Institute.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.0 · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Stalking
9
Motor vehicle theft
8
Robbery
7
Aggravated assault
7
Dating violence
6
Fondling
4

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Moody Bible Institute

The crime data from Moody Bible Institute over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in the rates of offenses committed on and around campus. Notably, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students has seen significant variations, peaking at 10.63 in 2018, which signals a concerning spike in criminal activity during that period. This trend could be reflective of various factors, including changes in campus policies, student population dynamics, or external societal influences.

Interestingly, the year 2019 showed a drastic decline in crime rates, dropping to 2.92 per 1,000 students. This reduction may suggest effective preventive measures or a shift in student behavior. However, the subsequent years, particularly from 2020 to 2023, show another rise, with crime rates fluctuating around 7 to 9 per 1,000 students. Such fluctuations raise questions about the stability of the campus environment and the efficacy of crime prevention initiatives.

In examining specific offenses, the data indicates that gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents are significant contributors to the overall crime rate. The presence of such crimes on campus can have profound implications for student safety and well-being, potentially impacting enrollment and the institution's reputation.

Overall, while the data presents a mixed picture, it highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a secure campus environment. Continuous monitoring of these trends and adapting safety protocols will be essential for Moody Bible Institute to maintain a safe and supportive educational atmosphere. For further details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Moody Bible Institute include Bart D. Ehrman (Biblical scholar, professor at UNC Chapel Hill), Mary McLeod Bethune (Educator, founder of National Council of Negro Women) and Daniel Everett (Linguist known for studying the Pirahã language).

More alumni (4, by field)

Politics and law

Arts and media

  • Charles McCallon Alexander 1867–1920

    Gospel singer on the evangelistic circuit

Other fields

  • Brandan Robertson 1992–

    Writer and LGBTQ activist

  • George Verwer 1938–2023

    Evangelist who led Operation Mobilisation

    Also attended: Maryville College

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.