2024 Best Colleges for Middle-Class Students in the Chicago Area

• Evanston, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,466 reviews

Junior: Northwestern University is a great college for students hoping to find a wide array of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Northwestern offers a wide range of courses on many different topics and because of the number of courses required to complete most majors (12-16), students in the College of Arts and Sciences are able to explore classes outside their majors at their leisure. The Quarter System can feel intimidating at first because of how fast-paced the courses can be but it also allows students to take more classes each year than a semester system which means students get to learn even more! Campus is also beautiful, located right next to Lake Michigan, so students are able to spend time outside of class at the beach and walking on the Lakefill.... Read 1,466 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $29,999

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,270 reviews

Senior: At UChicago, I found the ideal blend of rigorous academics, preprofessional resources, and an extensive alumni network, which has paved the way for my dream job in private equity investment post graduation. The academic program here is intellectually stimulating, challenging me to think critically and hone analytical skills. Collaborations with Booth Business School and the Harris School of Public Policy (YES! you can take classes at these schools during college!) have been instrumental, offering practical courses and diverse perspectives. The university's preprofessional support at Career Advancement Office has been outstanding, guiding me through internships and career development. The alumni network, filled with successful professionals, has provided invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities. The University of Chicago has been the perfect launchpad for my education and career development, and I never regret taking the offer during RD a few years back.... Read 1,270 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $33,727

• SAT range 1510-1580

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,501 reviews

Senior: University of Illinois Chicago is very diverse, which allows me to know people with different culture and background. The University is very open to hear students opinions and suggestions to changes that we believe are needed to better the school for everyone. Furthermore, the university takes great care of students overall mental health, thus multiple resources are available for students who needs help. One issue regarding the university is the doors on certain building are quiet heavy, hence student struggle to open them especially those with disability. I believe changing them will make things a lot easier for every students and including professors and adminstrators.... Read 3,501 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,725

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Elgin, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  721 reviews

Freshman: Elgin Community College (ECC) is a great place to start your college life. Professors here are very kind and knowledgeable and the academics here is pretty great. The only change I would like to see here at ECC is an improvement in Student Life, as the clubs and school events are pretty lack luster here. I will be graduating with my Associates degree next May and I can't wait!... Read 721 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,140

• SAT range —

• Palatine, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  1,014 reviews

Sophomore: Being a part of the Harper College community was a memorable experience. Harper has so many ways to stay involved in school and within your community. They provide so many financial opportunities for students who are in need. Personally, Harper has helped me a lot with school and has allowed me thrive academically. The professors at Harper are also very friendly and understanding. If i could stay at Harper longer, I definitely would!... Read 1,014 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,112

• SAT range —

• Palos Heights, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  312 reviews

Sophomore: I love my college because of the friendships and the professor relationships I have made- the community here is absolutely incredible! That being said, because we are a smaller school, we lack in some areas, like a nicer dining hall or nicer dorm buildings. I also think communication between the departments could be significantly better. It's often an issue with the financial aid department, but they send me to student life or to the registrar. But once I talk to them, they send me back to financial aid. Overall, I am glad to be here, but there are some things I wish could be improved.... Read 312 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $14,700

• SAT range 950-1220

• Gary, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.28 out of 5  728 reviews

Junior: Indiana University Northwest is a great place to pursue higher education. As a college student, I have had a wonderful experience here. The class sizes are small, which allows for more personalized attention from professors. This has helped me establish a better understanding of concepts and succeed in my courses. The university is also affordable, with financial aid and scholarship options available for eligible students. The campus is diverse, and students come from different backgrounds, which has been an enriching experience. The university has a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs and organizations that cater to different interests. This has provided me with opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and build my social network. The only downside to IUN is its location in Gary, which carries a reputation for high crime rates. However, the university has taken measures to ensure the safety of its students, and I have never felt unsafe on campus.... Read 728 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $5,625

• SAT range 940-1140

• Grayslake, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,051 reviews

Sophomore: A lot of great Professors and resources, but the college success seminar that's mandatory is not very helpful, and the advisors are overworked. Most of the students here are kind and the Grayslake Campus is pretty nice. They got new chairs this past year and they're great! There are a lot of places that could be added onto the tour that they do, because I remember going on one and I didn't know that they had study rooms and music practice rooms until my 4th semester here.... Read 1,051 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,486

• SAT range —

• Des Plaines, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  575 reviews

Graduate Student: My educational and career path has been greatly aided by Oakton Community College. It gave me a strong foundation and priceless experiences that have formed my goals. Going to a community college was the best choice I made. I was fortunate to get a well-rounded education while attending Oakton Community College. The college is well known for its academic offerings, committed professors, and multicultural student body. I gained a comprehensive grasp of my topic of study, and it also assisted me in sharpening vital skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Oakton provided me with a supportive environment and many resources. I remember the panic about choosing a college after finishing High School. As the first person to attend college in America, I needed more knowledge about college and someone to guide me through this process.... Read 575 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,143

• SAT range —

• Hammond, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,506 reviews

Sophomore: Even though I am currently a sophomore transitioning into a junior student at Purdue University Northwest this upcoming school year, I can already confidently say that my time at Purdue University Northwest has been one of the most delightful educational experiences I've ever had since elementary school. The environment created by both the general student body AND the professors allowed me to easily adapt and, therefore, get along with everybody, leading to a very digestible, excellent learning experience as a result! In addition, help and aide is just around the corner whenever I have any questions, concerns, and/or comments. Purdue University Northwest is truly an excellent choice for anyone looking for secondary education in the state of Indiana, especially in the Lake County!... Read 1,506 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $8,472

• SAT range 990-1190

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.31 out of 5  645 reviews

Senior: My experience at Chicago State University, allowed me to become a well-rounded, social individual. I made a lot of new friends as well as enjoying the atmosphere of college life. The professors educational standards were excellent and well organized. I also gain a personal relationship with some of the faculty. Not only did these actions occur during class time but sometimes occurring off campus as well, leading to new friendships. With the opportunities I was given I forfilled my life long dream of receiving my degree as well as walking across the stage.... Read 645 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $4,846

• SAT range 750-1030

• Glen Ellyn, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,682 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, the college is great! I was terrified to go to college but I've been fortunate to have good professors and a welcoming environment that made the transition easier! I truly wish they would make it a 4-year school considering its size and creditability. The only complaint I would have is with the cashier and financial aid offices, as they are not very helpful and tend to make you run around in circles to get any questions answered.... Read 1,682 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,440

• SAT range —

• Sugar Grove, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  620 reviews

Alum: Waubonsee has been a positive part of my local community for as long as I can remember. It has been a reliable place to consider for continuing education locally. The programs offered have only expanded and improved with time. Online courses have greatly improved, compared to ten years ago. I have taken classes here off and on throughout my adult life. The past two years I attended full-time to complete my associates in science, with intent to transfer into a radiography program. During my time here, I have encountered minimal issues with professors. There were only two instructors that I can recall being less than helpful or clear about teaching course information effectively. College administration staff have always been helpful with answering my questions, and assisting me with course recommendations that fit my long-term career goals. I would definitely recommend and attend in the future if needed.... Read 620 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,455

• SAT range —

• University Park, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  398 reviews

Freshman: After going to open house at Governors State I've decided to make this my college of choice. The student to teacher loyalty is something that I'm getting to know, even those who take online courses are treated so fairly. Their faculty is very accommodating and the campus is very modern. Since starting summer school there I've had a blast and I can't wait to begin my journey there this fall. Go Jaguars!... Read 398 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $9,943

• SAT range 830-1060

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  419 reviews

Sophomore: As a student who hasn't been to a schooling environment for a few years, coming back to school as an adult learner at CCC has been excellent! I felt really connected to my professors and was able to easily reach out to resources such as TRiO, the Access Center, and Transfer center. I was able to maintain high grades and got into a great 4-year school!... Read 419 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,707

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  436 reviews

Freshman: Wilbur Wright College, overall, is an institution of higher learning that I hold in high regard. The educational experience here has been positive, with a diverse range of courses and dedicated professors who are passionate about teaching. The campus environment is conducive to learning, and the facilities are well-maintained. However, it's worth noting that there have been occasional frustrations regarding administrative communication. There have been instances where important matters or inquiries sent via email have not received prompt attention. This lapse in email responsiveness has, at times, resulted in delays or confusion when seeking administrative assistance or information. Wilbur Wright College is a good educational institution with dedicated faculty and a conducive learning environment. However, addressing the issue of email responsiveness within the administration would further enhance the overall educational experience for students.... Read 436 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,439

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  351 reviews

Junior: I’m a first generation, non traditional student. I decided to pursue a nursing career after I became a mother. From the beginning I have always felt so supported by advisors and professors. When my transplant failed I ended up back on dialysis and I was still in school part time and some semesters not at all. That didn’t stop advisors from reaching out nor did it stop professors from getting tested to give me an actual kidney. No one was a match but it felt surreal to have that kind of support. I have since returned and will begin my second year of nursing this fall. I’m really happy I chose MXC!... Read 351 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,199

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  702 reviews

Sophomore: Harold Washington is really great! My professors have been awesome and the education is pretty quality, not to mention the school has so much free help. City Colleges of Chicago has campuses all over the city, but I chose Harold Washington for its primo downtown location. You can have lunch by the river and hang around downtown in between classes. It’s also easy to get to with public transportation!... Read 702 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,068

• SAT range —

• Chicago Heights, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  454 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, I've had a positive experience at prairie state college so far. While there have been some challenges along the way, I've learned a lot and grown as a person. I've had some amazing teachers who have inspired me to pursue my passions and have helped me develop my skills. I've also made some great friends from clubs I joined and community services I rendered. Of course, there have been some difficult moments too, such as when I struggled with a particular subject or had to deal with drama among my peers. But I've learned from those experiences and have come out stronger as a result. All in all, I'm grateful for the opportunities and experiences that college has given me."... Read 454 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,059

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  264 reviews

Freshman: I had a great experience at Richard J Daley College.. The staff was very nice and helpful., The teachers were very hands on with many different teaching styles.. The classrooms were comfortable and not over crowed..another good thing about city colleges is, they can prepare you for a 4 year program in a university.. Many four-year colleges and universities have enrollment requirements that someone isn't ready to meet. A community college can offer remedial classes and general classes to help a student obtain the education they need to pursue higher education, for a cheaper price, while boosting their GPA.. The only thing I would add in a city college is probably a office somewhere in the building, that focuses only on the grants that’s offered to the students.. Because in most universities they have a staff that focuses mainly on that aspect, because most students don’t know about the grants being offered to them to help pay for their education..... Read 264 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,690

• SAT range —

• River Grove, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  545 reviews

Sophomore: I like the programs that they offer to students! I also like the resources that they have in place for their students. I can easily access the staff if I need help with anything online, and they get back to their students in a timely manner. When COVID-19 happened, they had so many resources in place to help students with financial hardships and COVID-19 testing on site. Anytime I have ever needed help with registering for a class, ordering a college transcript, or dealing with financial aid matters, the staff was always helpful! I would definitely recommend this college. It is clean and the instructors are great! I definitely feel that I have learned a lot of valuable information and skills. I feel confident in my ability to excel in my career field. I also feel that I can apply the knowledge and skills that I gained, in my current job title and in real life situations! I feel that Triton has helped me grow and develop in many ways, and I will always be grateful for my experience.... Read 545 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,017

• SAT range —

• Joliet, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  971 reviews

Alum: My professors were all very helpful, and I took many of my classes online. I did have communication issues, sometimes getting no / late responses regarding assignment questions while taking online classes, but taking classes in person was great!... Read 971 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,304

• SAT range —

• Tinley Park, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  92 reviews

Graduate Student: It's hard for those that have to work to pay for tuition because it is a full time course. But if that's not a problem for you, then it's a great, fast paced, hands on program. Try not to miss because they do go over a lot so in one day you'll miss like a whole week worth of info and your grades can easily go down and you need a certain GPA to stay enrolled and not get kicked out.... Read 92 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $10,890

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  40 reviews

Other: My experience in Midwestern Career College has been extremely helpful and meaningful. Everything was wonderful from the friendly admission team, the passionate teachers to the amazing students. The downtown building is beautiful with an amazing river view. Classes are always clean. Fun of campus activities. And the overall experience was just phenomenal. I totally recommend Midwestern Career College to anyone who want to take immersive English courses in the USA. We don’t only learn the language but also learn about the US culture and essential skills that will help us in our careers.... Read 40 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,776

• SAT range —