Founded in 1891, North Park University. is a Private college. Located in Illinois, which is a city setting in Illinois, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 2,123 full time undergraduate students, and 920 full time graduate students.
The North Park University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 11:1. There are 116 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at North Park University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
94%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
0
SAT Range
872-1160
ACT Range
18-24
Admissions at are considered Less Selective, with ,13% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 20 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
77% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 40% were in the top quarter, and 15% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at North Park University.
0%
“We”re apathetic”
0%
“We know about current events and vote”
82%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
18%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
9%
“Sometimes, but not often”
82%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
9%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
9%
“I only go out in groups”
18%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
73%
“I feel extremely safe”
9%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
55%
“We bought the gear”
36%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
9%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
73%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
18%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
73%
“They keep regular office hours”
27%
“They”re always available”
73%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
18%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
9%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
27%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
55%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
9%
“We only party on weekends”
9%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
36%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
55%
“There might be people who do”
9%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
0%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
0%
“We know about current events and vote”
82%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
18%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
9%
“Sometimes, but not often”
82%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
9%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
9%
“I only go out in groups”
18%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
73%
“I feel extremely safe”
9%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
55%
“We bought the gear”
36%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
9%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
73%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
18%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
73%
“They keep regular office hours”
27%
“They”re always available”
73%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
18%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
9%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
59 Students rated on-campus housing 3.5 stars. 14 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
41 Students rated off-campus housing 3.5 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
60 Students rated campus food 2.4 stars. 3 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
64 Students rated campus facilities 3.8 stars. 25 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
64 Students rated class size 4.5 stars. 66 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
64 Students rated school activities 3.7 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
64 Students rated local services 4.4 stars. 56 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
64 Students rated academics 3.9 stars. 28 % gave the school a 5.0.
North Park University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of North Park University?
19 Students rated North Park University
Rajanee
Prospective04/02/2025
nice school
Kalen
It is known for its diverse academic offerings, strong emphasis on community and faith, and commitment to social justice. The university provides a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is appreciated for its urban setting, which offers students numerous opportunities for internships and cultural experiences.
Allen
As a student at North Park University, I can confidently say that this institution offers an extraordinary educational experience that goes far beyond traditional classroom learning. The university's intimate campus environment creates a tight-knit community where students truly feel seen and supported. With small class sizes, I'm not just another number - professors know me by name and genuinely invest in my personal and academic growth.
The diversity here is remarkable. North Park attracts students from varied backgrounds, creating a rich, multicultural learning environment that challenges and expands my worldview. Our campus reflects Chicago's incredible cultural mosaic, and I've learned so much just by interacting with my fellow students.
Our academic programs are exceptionally strong, particularly in areas like urban studies, business, and theology. The curriculum isn't just about memorizing facts; it's about critical thinking, real-world application, and developing meaningful skills. The university's Lutheran roots provide a values-driven approach to education that emphasizes both intellectual and personal development.
The location is another incredible advantage. Being situated in Chicago means incredible internship opportunities, cultural experiences, and access to a vibrant urban environment. The city becomes an extended classroom, offering networking possibilities and practical learning experiences that many other colleges can't match.
Community service and global engagement are also central to North Park's mission. We're encouraged to think beyond ourselves, to serve others, and to make a meaningful difference. This approach has profoundly shaped my understanding of leadership and social responsibility.
Whether you're seeking academic rigor, personal growth, or a supportive community, North Park University delivers an exceptional collegiate experience that prepares you not just for a career, but for life.
Pauline
It's a very welcoming university and everyone is super helpful in times of need. I was super nervous and overwhelmed about attending college for the first time, but the overall staff were very kind and useful in terms of keeping the campus open with safety practices and helping students find their way in remote learning.
Herman
North Park University is a great school to attend on the North side of Chicago. It's in a safe area of Chicago and is a decent sized school. My favorite thing about North Park are the size of the classes, this really allows you to get a one on one interaction with your professors.
Samantha
North Park University is a dream come true for me. From the moment I first stepped onto campus, I knew this would be the place where I got my degree. Despite not having the best campus dining or best residence halls, North Park has provided me with amazing academics and outstanding professors who are always there whenever I need help.
Claudia
Going to North Park University has changed me. At the end of my senior year of high school, I was not sure where I want to go. I thought North Park was a small school with little to do. I had the perception that going to a big school like UIC or Loyola would be better since I would get the college feel more, as I believed. However, that is not the case. Now that I attend North Park I love it. All my assumptions were very incorrect. Just because it is not a huge school does not mean those who attend will not get the college feel. North Park University really is a great campus. When I first entered one of the buildings on my first day, I saw students sitting around talking together and studying. I saw people playing outdoors. I saw professors talking to students as they walk around campus. I immediately got the college feel and was super satisfied. It is extremely safe and everyone there is respectful of those around them. Students are not just a face in the crowd, professors and staff members value every student. For example, in my Anatomy class, the professor made it her duty to remember each student's name which she mastered in just three days. She made it her priority to remember everyone's name in the lecture so that she can learn about each student which begins with respecting them and learning their names. This was a shock to me because everyone always told me that in college professors will not take the time to know you, which is very incorrect at North Park University. Professors take time to get to know the students they teach and work. Not only are professors at North Park amazing, but so are the students. Students generally respect the campus, teachers, and other students. I have never witnessed any students being disrespectful of the environment. For example, in one of my classes, there was a student with a disability and everyone in the class tried to make that person feel comfortable instead of making them feel like an outcast due to their disability. These are all reasons why North Park University is such a great school. Personally, I can't imagine myself at any other school. North Park University has really made my college experience an amazing one. I can not wait to see what my future at North Park holds, but I know no matter what it will be great. I strongly recommend this school for anyone who wants to feel apart of a community regardless of living on campus.
Kayla
Overall I think North Park is a very intellectual university and the staff are very friendly, besides for the occasional few. I would definitely recommend this university if you are looking into going into the medical field. Lastly, I am pleased with the university and will continue to study here until I receive my degree.
Kelly
North Park is an underdog. It is often overlooked because of its size and lack of athletic ability. It is however the place where I have felt most at home in my whole life. Everyone on campus is so warm and welcoming. The campus is absolutely beautiful in all seasons, especially during the spring when all the students hang out in the green space playing frisbee or just relaxing. The professors are incredible and truly care that you leave with a great education. My degree has especially prepared me for what comes next.
Daniel
I think that North Park University is a marvelous school. They have professors there that are passionate about what they teach and they are able to build relationships with students due to the small class sizes. Also, the campus is beautiful. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
Victor
I'm currently a sophomore at North Park University and I love it. The campus is so nice and small. You'll find your way around easily and everyone is super friendly. From professors to students around campus, everyone smiles at you. I'm a biology major student and every time I feel lost, my professor and my advisor is there to help me. I'd recommend this school to anyone who's interested into a small school.
Olivea
I love my school and it is the perfect fit for me. The class sizes are really small, there are so many ways to get involved, and we are just a short train ride away from the heart of Chicago. We have the best campus pastor and I never miss out on Wednesday Chapel.
Suzette
I love the environment of the school. Many clubs reach out to others to participate in their events and try to get more student to be involved in said groups. The campus is extremely safe. The teachers are there at our disposal. They encourage to visit them during office ours and are ready to answer any questions the students may have.
Jennifer
My overall opinion of North Park University is that it is a great learning environment. We have just recently begun our Catalyst program which allows undergrad students to utilize the city while learning. The city of Chicago has become our classroom. Not only is Chicago our work and play area but the professors are amazing, they teach their subjects with an extreme passion.
Vanessa
North Park University is a great school if you're looking for a small school with a huge amount of diversity. Everyone is supportive and there's a big community feel to North Park. If you're an athlete, a musician, an artist, or just like to do your own thing, North Park is a great school!
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for North Park University is 94%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
I have received a tremendous amount of pride. My experience has taught me to be more responsible for others. I realized that I can make the world a better place in helping people with there problems, by helping in this way it has made me feel better inside. Being able to interact with people everyday is the best feeling I could get therefore, a bigger self-esteem. Now I know I can do anything, and I have accomplished more than what I realized I could do. I value all the moments I spend in college because it has givin me the knowledge to succeed in my life. I will always cherish my years in college. Now I have the confidence to go out into the world and make it a better place. With the experience that I have already, has lead me moving forward in continuing my education.
Chicago was the best thing about my school. Being in the city limits allowed many learning opportunities to engage in the community and make a positive difference as well as explore and be engulfed in the culture of the city.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I would have known more about financial aid. I'm always panicking and worrying about how I'm going to get tuition paid, and it gets worse every semester. It's been a major struggle for me the past couple of semesters, but I just keep telling myself it will be worth it when I have that degree in a few years.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
Our food is not that great yet it is pretty pricey. ARAMARK is our provider and I would consider it to be the worst part of our school! We need to get a new program in with more food choices and more flexible dining hours.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
North Park University is a smaller campus, and allows for a closer relationship between students and faculty. You are not treated like just another number attending campus. The Academic Advisor is very helpful. North Park University's Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management touts itself as one of the best schools in its region, if not the nation. Given the list of faculty members, access to Professional Development Workshops, and Annual "bootcamp" for new nonprofit CEOs, I am certain that I've made the right choice!
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
The North Park University campus is beautiful. When you're on campus, it is so quiet and serene that you hardly realize you are in Chicago. There is a river that runs through the campus, surrounded by hundreds of beautiful trees and plants everywhere you look. It's also within walking distance of two CTA train stops that will take you anywhere you want to go in the city. This school allows you to experience the excitement and buzz of Chicago while having a calm and relaxing campus to return to a the end of a busy day.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
99% of students attending North Park University receive some sort of financial aid.
39% were awarded federal grants.75%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.