University of Chicago vs Yale University

University of Chicago is the more selective of the two at 4%, versus 4% at Yale University. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

University of Chicago
Most selective
4%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1570
Private · Illinois
Yale University
Most selective
4%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1570
Private · Connecticut

University of Chicago vs Yale University: the differences that matter

How University of Chicago and Yale University stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

University of Chicago and Yale University are almost equally selective (4% vs 4%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. University of Chicago leans more on class rank, standardized test scores, while Yale University puts more weight on a similar mix of factors. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, University of Chicago's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1570 and Yale University's is around 1570. Their admitted ranges are nearly identical. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorUniversity of ChicagoYale University
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresvery importantimportant
Application essayvery importantvery important
Recommendationsvery importantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesvery importantvery important
Talent / abilityvery importantvery important
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is University of Chicago or Yale University harder to get into?

University of Chicago is harder to get into, with a 4% acceptance rate versus 4% at Yale University.

What's the difference in SAT scores between University of Chicago and Yale University?

University of Chicago's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1570, and Yale University's is around 1570.

What are my chances at University of Chicago and Yale University?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.