The University of Chicago is changing the game! Recently, the prestigious university announced that they will be stepping away from the traditional college admissions process by eliminating their ACT and SAT score requirements. They launched their new UChicago Empower Initiative in efforts to make their undergraduate program more accessible to underserved and underrepresented students. Through this program prospective students will have more flexibility in the admissions process and additional financial support options.
Alternatively, applicants can submit two-minute video introductions, accolades, and other supplemental materials to showcase themselves. Students applying domestically can personally send in their transcripts rather than paying additional fees to request sealed reports. With the new test-optional approach, candidates can choose the test scores that best reflect their skill level or opt-out of the tests altogether.
In support of their new initiative, the top-tier private institution announced that they will provide free tuition to families earning less than $125,000 per year. Financial aid will also cover tuition, fees, room and board for families making less than $60,000 per year. To attract more first-generation students, a $20,000 scholarship (over four years) is being offered; plus a guaranteed paid-internship during their first college summer.
For many years, Chicago’s south side university resembled exclusivity. The school’s acceptance rate is 8% and last year 25% of the freshmen class earned perfect scores on the ACT and SAT. This feat is not easily attained by students that can’t afford elite high schools with high ranking test prep courses. “The UChicago Empower Initiative levels the playing field, allowing first-generation and low-income students to use technology and other resources to present themselves as well as any other college applicant,” said James Nondorf, Vice President and Dean of Admissions. “We want students to understand the application does not define you—you define the application.”
Only time will tell if other universities will follow suit to expand their enrollment opportunities and financial support systems. The University of Chicago will kickoff the new Empower Initiative starting with the class of 2023. More information on admissions can be found on their website CollegeAdmissions.UChicago.edu.
Written by Brittany A.J. Miriki
Source: UChicago News
