The third most populous city in the US, Chicago is famous for skyscrapers, baseball and deep-dish pizza. It’s also a great choice for international students looking to learn in the US
One of only four US cities to make PwC’s “Cities of Opportunity” rankings, Chicago is rightly considered one of the world’s great urban centres. With a vibrant art scene, world-famous food, and miles of scenic shoreline to explore, Chicago has plenty to offer visitors.
For international students, the city also boasts world-class universities and an inspiring environment regardless of their chosen field of study. If you want to find out more about student life in Chicago, this guide has all the information you need.
The best universities for international students
As the third-largest city in the US, Chicago has plenty of room to host a significant number of higher education institutions – and many provide a welcoming atmosphere and academically stimulating environment for international students. We’ve listed three of the best options below:
Northwestern University - Home to more than 5,500 international students from over 80 countries, Northwestern University offers courses at all scholarship levels, whether students are seeking undergraduate or PhD qualifications. Its top-ranked programmes include materials science, law, chemistry and economics.
The University of Illinois, Chicago (UIC) - With more than 500 active international partnerships, UIC is keen for its student body to play an active role in the global education sector. As well as hosting more than 10,000 international students, more than 2,000 of its learners take part in study abroad programmes every year.
The University of Chicago - The diverse student body at the University of Chicago hails from more than 100 countries around the world. The institution’s Office of International Affairs supports students in navigating immigration rules and accessing support services.
Accommodation
If you’re thinking of studying in Chicago, finding accommodation should be at the top of your to-do list. Deciding where to live isn’t easy in such a large city but several neighbourhoods are popular with the student crowd.
One area favoured by students is Hyde Park, which is especially popular with learners at the University of Chicago. In fact, it’s where Barack Obama lived while he served as a professor at the university’s law school. The neighbourhood may not be the biggest but its location between Washington Park and Lake Michigan means it offers plenty of green space and outdoor pursuits to enjoy.
Another popular area for student accommodation in Chicago is Near West Side, which is particularly appealing for students who want to experience life downtown. It’s the home of the Chicago blues and there are numerous first-rate eateries worth checking out. Finding off-campus accommodation in Near West Side can be challenging, however.
International students thinking of enrolling at Northwestern University may prefer the Evanston neighbourhood. Situated some 12 miles from the city centre, this area is ideal for people who want a small-town feel without being too far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Where to eat and drink
Chicago has a range of top-class food and drink outlets to explore, whether you’re looking for something casual or upmarket. No trip to the Windy City would be complete without sampling its renowned speciality – the deep-dish pizza. One of the best (and most affordable) spots serving this Chicago classic is Pequod’s Pizza, which offers a seven-inch deep-pan pizza for $6.95 (£5.70) every weekday between 11am and 3pm.
Slightly less well known is the Chicago-style hot dog – a beef frankfurter served in a steamed poppy seed bun, topped with mustard, green relish, onions, tomato wedges, pickles and peppers. There are outlets all over the city serving variations on this local snack, but Jim’s Original hot dog stand claims to be the originator, serving customers since 1939.
Chicago also has many excellent Italian and Greek restaurants, a lively Chinatown and many excellent bars. One of the best student bars is the Oasis Tavern, which offers darts, pool and karaoke, and a diverse selection of craft beers. If you’d prefer a traditional Irish pub, head to Kelly’s Pub, which has been a thriving Chicago institution since prohibition was repealed in 1933.
What to do
International students in Chicago will find many activities to fill their spare time. Sports fans can soak up the atmosphere at a baseball game by following either the Cubs or the White Sox, while intellectual muscles can be stretched at the Art Institute of Chicago or the Science and Industry Museum. Shoppers should head to the Magnificent Mile and its parade of global brands and boutique shops. Plus, there are several sightseeing tours if students want to gain a quick feel for the city.
Living on a budget
Although Chicago is big, it boasts the fourth-largest rapid transit system in the US, meaning there is budget transport available for students wherever they’re headed. There are also plenty of free activities to enjoy, including Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago Blues Festival and Navy Pier. And don’t forget your student ID when you head out as many venues offer discounts.
Study spots
As an international student, it’s easy to get carried away with all the food, drink and activities on offer in your adopted city, but studying is important too. If you’re looking for a quiet study spot, there’s none better than the Chicago Public Library. If you prefer some background noise, the Volumes Bookcafe has coffee and snacks to keep you going, and (weather permitting) Grant Park lets you combine study time and fresh air in what has become known as Chicago’s front yard.
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