
9501 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL 60628-1598, USA


Chicago State University offers undergraduate tuition rates that are notably affordable compared to many institutions nationwide. Full-time in-district and in-state undergraduate tuition stands at $8,040 annually, placing it in the lower 20% nationally for cost. Graduate tuition for full-time in-district and in-state students is even lower at $6,282 per year, also within the bottom quartile for affordability. However, despite the comparatively low tuition, the fees charged are substantially high. Undergraduate fees reach $4,714 annually and graduate fees $4,012, both ranking in the top 5% in cost across the country. Part-time undergraduate and graduate hourly charges remain relatively low, ranging from $335 to $349 in-district or in-state.
When combining tuition and fees, the yearly total for full-time undergraduate students reaches $11,352, which is placed in the bottom 20% of similar institutions nationally for overall cost. Room and board expenses at Chicago State University are quite steep, estimated at $17,777 annually, ranking in the top 20% for cost, which adds a significant amount to the total yearly cost for students living on or near campus. The capacity for on-campus housing is low, with just 275 available spots, which may affect access to university housing for some students.
To provide context, average total annual costs in the United States vary considerably depending on the type of institution and residency status. For in-state students attending a four-year public college, the average is $25,707 per year, while out-of-state students face average costs near $44,014. Private non-profit four-year colleges usually cost upwards of $54,501 annually. Chicago State University's combined tuition and fees are lower than average for in-state students at public colleges, but adding room and board significantly increases the total, possibly exceeding typical expenses experienced by many peers nationwide.
Chicago State University offers a variety of work-study opportunities designed to help students finance their education while gaining valuable experience. Eligible students can participate in federally funded work-study programs that provide part-time employment, typically on campus, allowing them to balance work with their academic responsibilities.
The university's work-study positions cover diverse job roles including administrative support, library assistance, and various departmental tasks. These roles not only offer financial aid but also help students develop professional skills relevant to their fields of study.
Students generally earn wages that align with federal guidelines; although specific pay rates can vary depending on the job and assigned department, the compensation is competitive and intended to support students' educational expenses. Internships linked to work-study sometimes provide hands-on experience that strengthens a student's résumé.
Regarding international students, Chicago State University allows them to participate in on-campus employment through work-study if they meet certain eligibility requirements. This inclusion broadens access to financial support and professional growth for the entire student body.
Total dormitory capacity
275Institution provide on-campus housing
YesInstitution provides board or meal plan
Data not availableAny alternative tuition plans offered by institution
Data not availableTuition guaranteed plan
Data not availablePrepaid tuition plan
Data not availableUndergraduate average amount
$16,023All
$19,111Undergraduate average amount
$5,421Graduate average amount
$14,388Students awarded Title IV federal financial aid (2023-2024)
Average net price (income 30,001-48,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$10,674Average net price (income 48,001-75,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$12,729Average net price (income 75,001-110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$16,801Average net price (income over 110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$9,392