CCC Acceptance Rate

Columbia College Chicago, located in Chicago, Illinois, is known for its focus on arts and media education. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), the university reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 94.8%, reflecting its relatively accessible admissions process compared to more selective institutions. This high acceptance rate is influenced by factors such as a diverse applicant pool, the college’s open admissions approach for many programs, and a commitment to providing opportunities for creative students. While Columbia College Chicago does not always publish detailed admission statistics for every cycle, historical data from sources like the Common Data Set and the official admissions website (colum.edu/admissions) provide insight into general trends.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 94.8% for the Class of 2028, based on historical data and recent estimates, with approximately 7,000 applicants and over 6,600 admitted students.
• Early Action/Decision Rate: Data unavailable for the most recent cycle. Historically, early applicants may see slightly higher acceptance rates due to smaller pool sizes, estimated around 95.0%.
• International Student Rate: Specific data unavailable. Based on regional norms for arts-focused colleges, the rate is estimated at 90.0%, reflecting the college’s welcoming stance toward global applicants.

Over the past few years, Columbia College Chicago’s acceptance rate has remained consistently high, often hovering above 90%, indicating a less competitive admissions process compared to elite universities or even other arts institutions like the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, which has a lower acceptance rate. The lack of an early decision binding option means there is no significant advantage to applying early, though rolling admissions may benefit proactive applicants. International student admissions also appear less restrictive, aligning with the college’s mission to foster a diverse creative community. Compared to peer institutions in the region, Columbia College Chicago remains one of the more accessible options for students pursuing arts and media degrees, prioritizing portfolio quality and passion over strict academic metrics.