
1 East Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60604-2287, USA


DePaul University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that the institution meets rigorous standards for academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This regional accreditation is a key factor for prospective students to consider, as it verifies that the university maintains a recognized level of educational excellence.
In addition to institutional accreditation, many of DePaul University's individual programs hold specialized accreditations from professional bodies pertinent to their fields. This further guarantees that students receive education aligned with industry standards and current professional practices.
DePaul University requires applicants to have completed secondary education, with a General Educational Development (GED) accepted as an alternative. Prospective students must submit their secondary school academic records and maintain a required grade point average. Admission also depends on the completion of relevant college programs and the submission of recommendations.
Applicants must provide TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency, while other standardized tests are recommended but not mandatory. The university does not operate under an open admission policy and does not support dual credit for early high school college coursework. However, credit for Advanced Placement (AP) exams is accepted.
While standardized test scores such as SAT and ACT results are considered, detailed score requirements are not specified. The university reports a moderate acceptance rate of about 74%, with a substantial volume of applications-over 32,000 yearly-reflecting its selective but accessible admission landscape. Female applicants represent a larger share of applicants and admissions, consistent with enrollment trends.
DePaul University requires prospective students to pay an application fee as part of the admissions process. This fee applies to all first-year and transfer applicants submitting their applications. The institution recognizes that application fees can be a barrier for some students and offers fee waivers for eligible candidates. These waivers are typically granted based on financial need or participation in certain programs that the university partners with. Students seeking a waiver must provide documentation supporting their eligibility, which is reviewed during the application process.
Additionally, applicants who qualify for fee waivers are encouraged to indicate this during the application submission to ensure the fee is waived appropriately. DePaul University aims to make the application process accessible and reduce financial obstacles for motivated students. However, it is important that all applicants verify the current application fee and waiver options as these policies may be subject to updates.
DePaul University hosts an ROTC branch unit directly on its campus, providing students the opportunity to participate in military training and leadership development programs while pursuing their academic studies. Additionally, the university supports access to ROTC instruction through a cooperating host institution, allowing students to fulfill ROTC requirements even if certain courses or specialized training are not available at DePaul itself.
DePaul University offers transfer admission for students in all four academic terms: fall, winter, spring, and summer, providing a range of entry points throughout the year. The institution evaluates transfer applicants with a moderate level of selectivity, reflecting a balance between accessibility and academic standards. Transfer credit acceptance is available, with the university recognizing credits earned through both CLEP General and CLEP Subject examinations. Prospective students are also advised that submitting recommendation letters is an accepted part of the admission process, which may enhance their application profile.
DePaul University offers a variety of study abroad options designed to integrate global learning with academic requirements. Students can participate in semester-, summer-, and short-term programs across multiple continents, providing flexible opportunities to fit diverse academic schedules and personal interests.
The university's programs span traditional semester exchanges with partner institutions, culturally immersive summer sessions, and faculty-led trips, allowing students to gain firsthand international experience while earning credits toward their degrees. These programs cover a range of disciplines, including business, communications, humanities, and social sciences, reflecting DePaul's commitment to interdisciplinary education.
In addition, DePaul collaborates with third-party providers to expand its program reach, offering students unique experiences in destinations that might not be accessible through direct partnerships. This diversification helps accommodate different academic goals, budgetary considerations, and travel preferences.
Students benefit from comprehensive pre-departure orientation and ongoing support while abroad, ensuring a well-rounded experience that promotes both academic and personal growth. The combination of language immersion, cultural engagement, and academic rigor aims to prepare students for success in a globalized workforce.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
14.15%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
41.7%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer