UNITED STATES · CHICAGO
Roosevelt University
private · Founded 1945 · Languages: en
In short
Roosevelt University, located in Chicago, Illinois, offers accessible private education with a focus on social justice across a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It provides an urban campus experience with rolling admissions and various scholarships available for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1945
- Students
- 4,680
- International students
- 350
- Acceptance rate
- 80%
- Tuition (intl)
- €20–20k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Chicago, United States
Roosevelt University is a private institution located in Chicago, Illinois, with a secondary campus in Schaumburg. Established in 1945, the university is committed to providing an accessible and transformational education, emphasizing social justice and community engagement. Roosevelt offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various colleges, including Humanities, Education and Social Sciences, Science, Health & Pharmacy, and the Heller College of Business. The university prides itself on its urban campus experience, with its main Chicago campus situated in the heart of the city's cultural and commercial district, offering students direct access to city life and opportunities. Roosevelt's focus on affordability and a supportive community makes it an attractive option for students seeking a values-driven education in a major U.S. city. For Illinois residents, the Roosevelt Pledge can make tuition free for those with family incomes under $50,000, underscoring its dedication to eliminating financial barriers. Students at Roosevelt University benefit from a vibrant campus environment, with numerous opportunities for involvement in clubs, organizations, and NCAA Division II athletics. The university encourages an active student life, fostering a sense of community and providing spaces for students to live, learn, and grow in a dynamic urban setting.
Why study here
- Access a transformational private education in a world-class city.
- Engage with a curriculum that keeps social justice at its core.
- Benefit from a wide array of academic programs from bachelor's to doctoral degrees.
- Experience dynamic student life with clubs, organizations, and Chicago’s only NCAA Division II athletic program.
- Live in the 32-story Wabash Building with city views and convenient access to classes and downtown Chicago.
Student life
Life at Roosevelt University is an engaging experience, particularly at the downtown Chicago campus where students reside in the 32-story Wabash Building, offering stunning city views and integrated living and learning spaces. The university encourages active participation through numerous student organizations, community service opportunities, and social events. Roosevelt is home to Chicago's only NCAA Division II athletic program, featuring 35 men’s and women’s teams, providing ample opportunities to support the 'Lakers.' Students are encouraged to get involved, serve others, and connect with peers who share their passions, fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus community. The central location provides unparalleled access to Chicago's rich cultural, artistic, and culinary scene.
Fees
InternationalUndergraduate full-time tuition for most colleges (Humanities, Education and Social Sciences, Science, Health & Pharmacy, Heller College of Business) is $23,100 per academic year (12-18 credits per semester). Part-time tuition is $884 per credit hour. Specialized programs and partnership agreements may have different rates.
Home—
LivingLiving expenses, including housing, meals, airfare, local travel, books/supplies, and socializing, are the responsibility of the student. On-campus living is available in the Wabash Building.
Students participating in exchange study abroad programs pay Roosevelt University full-time undergraduate tuition. For approved affiliated study abroad programs, students pay the advertised program cost plus a $500 administrative fee to Roosevelt. Roosevelt scholarships and grants generally cannot be used for affiliated programs unless they are exchange programs.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryCompleted secondary education with transcripts; admission is holistic with rolling deadlines.
English proficiencyRequired for non-native English speakers via TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo, or through qualifying prior study in English.
TOEFL80 (for tests before Jan 20, 2026), 4 (for tests after Jan 20, 2026)
IELTS6.0
Duolingo English Test110
Rankings
U.S. News & World Report — Regional Universities MidwestRanked regionally
U.S. News — Top Performers on Social MobilityRecognised
University scholarships
Roosevelt Merit ScholarshipsAutomatic awards for admitted undergraduates based on GPA, typically several thousand USD per year
International Student ScholarshipsMerit-based tuition awards for qualifying international applicants
Performing Arts (CCPA) Talent ScholarshipsAwarded by audition for music and theatre conservatory students
Accreditation
Roosevelt University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Several professional programs hold additional specialized accreditation, including the Heller College of Business and the College of Pharmacy.
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionRoosevelt University · United States
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre - Dance Concentration
This Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program in Musical Theatre with a Dance Concentration is designed to prepare students for a career in the performing arts. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends rigorous dance training with essential acting and music studies. The program aims to foster students' unique artistic expression and provide them with the skills and techniques needed for professional success. The curriculum is taught by faculty who are active professionals in the field, bringing real-world experience and insights into the classroom. Students benefit from a strong foundation in various dance styles, acting techniques, and vocal training, all crucial for the demands of musical theatre. Located in Chicago, this program allows students to immerse themselves in a vibrant arts community. Graduates are equipped to pursue opportunities on Broadway, in national tours, and in other professional performance venues.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Roosevelt University · United States
Bachelor's in Acting, BFA
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting program at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) focuses on transforming acting from simple pretense to a process of embodying characters and fully living within a story. You'll gain performance experience in CCPA productions and have opportunities to understudy and perform with Chicago's professional theatre scene, including renowned institutions like the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and the Goodman Theatre. This rigorous program trains students in Stanislavski system-based principles, incorporating techniques from Uta Hagen, Michael Chekhov, and Viewpoints. Voice and speech training emphasizes the methods of Kristin Linklater and Patsy Rodenburg, focusing on healthy vocal development for both speaking and singing. As you advance, you'll master challenging material like Shakespearean text, develop on-camera skills, learn stage combat, and explore voiceover basics. The curriculum also includes dance classes and applied voice lessons, preparing you for versatile careers across different performance mediums. Learn from faculty who are active professionals in Chicago's vibrant theatre community and become a confident storyteller.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Roosevelt University · United States
Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Music Industry, BMA
The Bachelor of Musical Arts (BMA) in Interdisciplinary Music Industry at Roosevelt University provides students with the flexibility to tailor their studies to their specific academic and artistic interests. This program, housed within the Interdisciplinary Conservatory of the Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA), allows students to choose electives and a specialization in one of three areas: Recording and Engineering, Live Sound, or Music Industry Administration. The faculty includes full-time professors and active music professionals, ensuring students learn from experienced individuals in a focused environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Roosevelt University · United States
Bachelor’s in Music Education, BM
The Bachelor of Music in Music Education program at Roosevelt University is designed to prepare students for a successful career as a K-12 music educator. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in musicianship, performance, and teaching methodologies with a strong foundation in general education studies. Students gain practical experience through teaching practice and engagement with both urban and suburban school settings. The program emphasizes the importance of passion for music education and provides opportunities to learn from experienced active and retired music teachers.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Roosevelt University · United States
Bachelor's in Musical Theatre, BFA
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Musical Theatre program at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) is designed for students with a strong background and passion for musical theatre. This intensive program combines rigorous musical training with Stanislavski-based acting techniques. Students will develop skills in music theory, piano, and voice lessons, alongside acting for the stage and camera, voice and speech work, and specialized musical theatre courses. The curriculum also includes Pop-Rock style classes, audition workshops, and a business practices course to prepare students for a versatile career in the performing arts.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Roosevelt University · United States
Bachelor's or Master's in Voice (BM, MM)
The Voice program at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) focuses on developing individual artists prepared for 21st-century careers. You will engage in intensive applied lessons and coaching sessions with world-class faculty, build a strong foundation in music theory, history, and language, and address professional development and arts entrepreneurship. The program offers opportunities to perform in innovative productions under the guidance of field leaders. You will join a supportive community of students and alumni dedicated to thriving in the arts.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students at Roosevelt University?
+
Undergraduate full-time tuition for most colleges is $23,100 per academic year for 12-18 credits per semester. Part-time tuition is charged at $884 per credit hour. Some specialized programs may have different rates.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students can demonstrate English proficiency through a TOEFL score of 80 (or 4 for tests after Jan 20, 2026), an IELTS score of 6.0, or a Duolingo English Test score of 110. Alternatively, proficiency can be met by completing 30 transferable credit hours at a U.S. institution or a degree from an approved English-speaking country.
Does Roosevelt University offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Roosevelt University offers several scholarships for international students. These include automatic Roosevelt Merit Scholarships based on GPA, general International Student Scholarships, and specific talent scholarships for performing arts students.
Where is Roosevelt University located?
+
Roosevelt University has two campuses in Illinois: a main campus in the heart of downtown Chicago, and a secondary campus in Schaumburg, a northwest suburban economic center.
What is the admissions process like for international students?
+
Roosevelt University generally practices rolling admissions for most programs, meaning there are no fixed application deadlines, though some specialized programs may have specific dates. Undergraduate admission considers a completed secondary education with transcripts, and the process is holistic.
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