
3140 South Federal Street, Chicago, IL 60616-3731, USA


VanderCook College of Music is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring that it meets established standards of quality and integrity in higher education. This accreditation confirms that the college maintains rigorous academic programs and institutional effectiveness suitable for prospective students seeking a reliable music education.
VanderCook College of Music requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent. Prospective students must submit their secondary school GPA as part of the application, and recommendations are also mandatory. Demonstrated competencies are required to qualify for admission. Additionally, applicants must provide TOEFL scores, while other standardized tests are recommended but not obligatory.
The college does not mandate the use of a computer or offer computer leasing as part of the admissions process. It maintains a selective admission policy, without open admission, and does not accept dual credit or general college credit for incoming students. However, Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted.
Regarding standardized test scores, about 60% of enrolled students submitted ACT scores, with 33% scoring below 29 and 67% below 23, while only 18% submitted SAT scores.
VanderCook College of Music charges an application fee to prospective students seeking admission. However, the institution offers fee waivers under certain circumstances to support applicants who may face financial barriers. These waivers are typically granted based on specific criteria, which can include financial need or participation in designated outreach programs. Prospective students are encouraged to inquire directly with the admissions office to determine their eligibility and to learn how to apply for a fee waiver if needed.
There is no information available regarding ROTC programs at VanderCook College of Music. Prospective students interested in ROTC opportunities should consider contacting the college directly or explore nearby universities that offer such programs, as VanderCook College of Music does not appear to have ROTC options embedded within its curriculum or campus offerings.
VanderCook College of Music permits transfer students to enroll during the fall and spring semesters. The college allows the acceptance of previous college credits, facilitating the transfer process for students who have attended other institutions. Prospective transfer students must be at least 10 years old to be eligible for admission.
VanderCook College of Music offers limited formal study abroad programs specifically structured for its students. The institution primarily focuses on a music education curriculum within its campus environment, and as such, international study opportunities are not a prominent feature of its academic offerings. Prospective students interested in global music experiences may need to pursue external programs or partnerships independently, as the college currently does not provide dedicated study abroad pathways integrated into its degree plans.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
60%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
18%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
Data not availableCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RequiredAdmission 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
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
NoOff-campus study
NoStudy abroad
NoWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring