North Park University: Admissions, Courses, Acceptance Rate, Scholarship, & Housing Guide

North Park University, located on a 33-acre urban campus, blends big-city access with a close-knit community feel. With an acceptance rate of approximately 68%, it offers a balance between opportunity and academic quality—making it an ideal destination for international students.

North Park stands out for its career-focused programs in Business, Nursing, Education, Music, and Theology, and an impressive 92% placement rate within two years of graduation. Tuition for full-time international undergraduates is around $37,500 per year, and the university offers generous scholarships to ease the financial load. In this blog, we will talk about North Park university. Let’s go!

Why Should You Choose North Park University in 2025?

North Park University, located in Chicago, on a 33-acre campus in one of America’s most iconic cities.  Founded in 1891, the university is known for its welcoming environment and personalized attention. With an acceptance rate of around 68%, it’s a selective yet accessible institution that opens doors for students from around the world. International learners are especially drawn to programs in Business, Nursing, Education, Music, and Theology, which are not only well-ranked but also aligned with in-demand global careers.

What makes North Park stand out is its placement success—92% of students secure employment within two years of graduation, giving you real confidence that your investment will pay off. Speaking of investment, tuition for full-time undergraduate international students sits at $37,500 per year, with part-time options priced at $1,135 per credit hour. Below are the North Park University highlights:

Which Courses Are Popular at North Park University in 2025 and What Are Their Fees and Eligibility?

North Park University in 2025, offers the most sought-after courses include the MBA/PGDM, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), and Bachelor of Engineering (B.E./B.Tech). These programs not only provide industry-aligned curriculum but also come with strong career outcomes. North Park University reports a 92% placement rate within two years of graduation, making it a solid return on investment.

For international students, first-year tuition fees range from $25,800 to $35,200, depending on the program. The university also maintains accessible entry requirements, with most programs requiring a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 or a TOEFL iBT score between 68 and 80, along with standard academic qualifications like a high school diploma or a bachelor’s degree. Here’s a closer look at the popular courses, their fees, duration, and admission criteria at North Park University:

Where Does North Park University Rank in 2025?

In 2025, the North Park University, the university continues to be recognized for its commitment to inclusion and student success—especially in the Midwest region of the U.S. According to the U.S. News & World Report (2025), North Park is ranked #73 among Regional Universities in the Midwest, a category that evaluates colleges based on graduation rates, faculty quality, and academic reputation.

The university also shines in helping underrepresented students succeed, ranking #8 in Top Performers on Social Mobility—a jump from #15 the previous year. Previously in 2023, the university climbed to #30 in the Best Regional Universities – Midwest category, showing steady improvement from #39 in 2022. Below are the key details of North Park University rankings 2025:

How Competitive Is the Acceptance Rate at North Park University in 2025?

North Park University has an acceptance rate of approximately 68%, and is considered moderately selective, striking the perfect balance between opportunity and academic standards. Unlike many universities, North Park follows a test-optional policy, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not required or even recommended. However, for those who do submit scores, the middle 50% ranges fall between 890–1162 for the SAT and 19–23 for the ACT. But don’t worry if standardized testing isn’t your thing—what really matters is your overall story.

Admissions decisions here are holistic, meaning the university looks beyond your grades. They consider your academic record alongside your personal essay, recommendation letters, extracurriculars, and the overall narrative of your application. To apply, international and domestic students pay a non-refundable application fee of $40. Below are the key details of North Park University acceptance rate 2025:

Which Scholarships Can International Students Apply for at North Park University in 2025?

North Park University makes your academic journey a little lighter on the wallet with several scholarship options designed for international students. Whether you’re applying based on academic merit, leadership, creative talent, or financial need, there’s something here to support your dream.

In 2025, North Park offers multiple institutional scholarships that are open to international applicants—starting with the Nyvall Scholarship, which awards between $5,000 and $22,000 per year based on your academic achievements. If you’re planning to become a history teacher, the Hahn Scholarship adds an extra $2,000 to your aid package annually. Below are the key details of North Park University scholarships:

Where Can You Stay While Studying at North Park University in 2025?

If you’re planning to study at North Park University in Chicago, securing the right accommodation is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a student. With over 2,800 students, including a growing population of international students, the university provides a safe and welcoming environment right in the heart of one of America’s most vibrant cities.

Whether you’re a first-year student who wants to live steps away from classrooms, or a senior or graduate student looking for more privacy and independence, North Park offers both on-campus and off-campus housing options that are tailored to fit different lifestyles and budgets. Let’s take a closer look at the housing options and what you can expect in terms of pricing:

On-Campus Accommodation at North Park University

North Park encourages all undergraduate students—especially those in their first, second, and third years (with fewer than 90 credit hours)—to live on campus. This ensures a smooth transition into college life and helps students build strong academic and social foundations. On-campus housing typically includes residence halls for underclassmen and apartment-style units for upperclassmen and graduate students. Following is the estimated cost of living in an on-campus student accommodation at North Park University:

• Annual Housing Rate: ~$11,450 (approximately $5,725 per semester) 
• Utilities: Included (electricity, gas, water); internet may require separate arrangement. 

Off-Campus Accommodation at North Park University 

Upperclassmen, graduate students, or anyone looking for a bit more freedom and flexibility often choose to live off-campus. The neighborhoods surrounding North Park—such as Albany Park, Ravenswood, and Lincoln Square—are popular among students for their affordability, cultural diversity, and lively atmosphere. Off-campus options include everything from private studios and shared apartments to rental homes, many of which are within walking distance or a short public transit ride to campus. Most apartment complexes include amenities like laundry, gyms, and communal spaces, while houses are ideal for students who want to share costs with roommates. Following is the estimated monthly rent (2025):

• Studio apartment: $1,200 – $1,500
• 1-bedroom apartment: $1,500 – $1,800
• 2-bedroom apartment: $1,800 – $2,200
• 3-bedroom apartment: $2,200 – $2,600
• Shared room (per person): $650 – $850

Conclusion 

If you’re looking for a university that combines academic excellence, generous scholarships, and a dynamic city lifestyle, North Park University is absolutely worth considering in 2025. From globally relevant courses and an inclusive campus to a prime location in one of America’s top student cities—this school delivers on all fronts. 

Shared rooms around campus start at just $650/month, making student life in Chicago affordable and exciting. Need help finding safe, budget-friendly housing near North Park University? University Living is here to guide you every step of the way. We offer verified student accommodations with flexible leases and all the essentials you need to settle in comfortably. So, ready to make Chicago your next academic home? North Park is ready to welcome you! 

Frequently Asked Questions