Applications are now open and will close Sunday, August 9.
The application will require you to create an online account. Once you have done so, you will be able to select the option to create a new application for Discover UChicago (DU). As part of the application, you will be asked to upload several documents; PDF and Word documents are acceptable.
Required documents for the application are:
- An academic purpose statement (500–1000 words) describing your current academic and professional goals, as they relate to your interest in graduate study. This statement should specifically mention the programs of study at UChicago that you are interested in, and two or three of our faculty members whose work is of particular interest to you.
- An unofficial copy of your most recent transcript.
- Your current resume or CV.
- Two letters of recommendation. Specific instructions will be sent to your recommenders to submit a letter electronically.
- A short personal statement (500 words) describing how Discover UChicago will help support your graduate school journey, particularly as a bridge between your educational and professional aspirations.
- A writing sample if your program of interest in is the Arts and Humanities Division or the Social Sciences Division.
Optional: Self-reported GRE/GMAT test score information if your program of interest is in the following Divisions/Schools:
- Booth School of Business
- Physical Sciences Division
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering
- Social Sciences Division
Application Tips
The strongest applicants for graduate study will have a clear sense of how and why each specific program is a good fit for their intended work. As our Discover UChicago program offers participants advice on preparing a competitive application to graduate programs, we suggest looking carefully at our degree programs and faculty to help determine which programs best match your research interests.
While interdisciplinary work at the University of Chicago is encouraged, expressing a primary research focus and a clear methodological approach can greatly strengthen your application. In addition, it will allow our office to match you with appropriate faculty and current students during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Discover UChicago (DU) program?
The Discover UChicago program is for rising college seniors, recent graduates, and others who intend to apply for PhD or MA programs in the near future.
How many programs of interest can I choose?
Applicants may select up to two schools or divisions of interest. Applicants may only submit one Discover UChicago application per year.
Are standardized test scores and/or a minimum GPA required for the DU application?
There is no minimum GPA required for the DU application. Self-reported test scores are optional for applicants whose program(s) of interest are in the Booth School of Business, Physical Sciences Division, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, and the Social Sciences Division.
What is the word limit on the academic statement of purpose?
Your academic statement of purpose document should be a brief statement (500–1000 words) describing your current academic and/or professional goals, as they relate to your interest in graduate study. This statement should specifically mention the programs of study at UChicago that you are interested in.
Additional questions? Please contact Lester Harris Jr., Director GRAD Student Leadership & Development.