The Windy City is another name for Chicago, one of the busiest cities in the United States, located in the center of the country. Chicago is a cosmopolitan mega-city with one of the most recognizable skylines on Earth and a unique multicultural makeup inviting students from around the world.
Over the past decade, Chicago has become an excellent learning destination for international students due to its academic quality, diverse culture and hospitable environment.
Chicago has an impressive art and music scene and is also a wonderful city known for world-class dining. Residents enjoy the lakefront recreation along Lake Michigan. The city has several sandy beaches and bike-friendly paths.
Chicago has a continental climate with clearly defined seasons, making it ideal for individuals who like to experience a variety of weather conditions when engaging in outdoor activities.
Chicago has an active startup culture and a growing innovation environment focusing on technological advancements. It is rapidly transforming into a global hub for innovations.
People in Chicago celebrate the fact that it is a multi-racial society with people from different parts of the world. Apart from English, people speak languages like Spanish, Chinese, Polish and Tagalog.
The quality of education is given utmost priority. Studying in Chicago at world-renowned institutions offers students a range of programs and study options to choose from.
Public transportation in Chicago is easy on the pocket, offers convenience, and even includes a Venta card that makes travelling a breeze. Using this smart card, it becomes easy to travel in the city.
The multilingual city of Chicago provides students with the opportunity to embrace multiple languages. In addition to English, you can hear people speaking in Spanish, Chinese, Polish, and Tagalog.
America has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. International students can access a universal health insurance policy in all areas of Chicago for adequate medical care while studying abroad.
Chicago has many cultural activities, including art institutions and architecture, such as famous museums that have become part of the skyline.
The heterogeneous and ubiquitous situation in the city guarantees acceptance to all learners, ensuring safety for foreign students while studying abroad in Chicago.
In addition to being one of the largest American cities, Chicago also hosts some of the country's top educational institutions, attracting students from all over the world. Given below are some of the top universities in Chicago:
Chicago's transportation system is efficient and affordable, offering various modes of travel for students:
Chicago is a city that boasts of a sprawling public transport system consisting of buses and the "L" rail/train system, which is enhanced with a simplified fare-paying procedure by use of the Ventra card.
There is also a bike rental option that allows international students to get around the city affordably.
There are two international airports in Chicago, O'hare International Airport and Midway International Airport, offering easy accessibility for global tourists.
Direct ways where students can use shared rides through Uber or conventional taxis.
Living costs for international students in Chicago may vary, but below are the estimated monthly expenses for students when studying abroad in Chicago, USA:
Type of Living Costs | Estimated Average Costs (per month) |
---|---|
Rent | $800 USD |
Food | $300 USD |
Transport | $100 USD |
Utilities | $70 USD |
Internet and Phone | $60 USD |
Entertainment | $100 USD |
Total Average Cost | $1,430 USD |
Note- Please note that these figures are indicative and actual costs may vary based on individual preferences and circumstances.
There are many free things to do in Chicago that students can explore while studying in Chicago:
Visit the iconic Millennium Park, one of Chicago's gems. You'll see the "Cloud Gate" sculpture, also known as "The Bean." It's generally a great place to get your photos taken.
Visit Grant Park, famous as Chicago's Front Yard, which features several breathtaking gardens, sculptural artworks, and light displays in the Buckingham Fountain during summer nights.
It is free to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art every Tuesday. A world-renowned museum that offers a selection of modern art and regularly organizes interesting shows and events.
It is one of the few remaining free zoos in America. While visiting the zoo, you will get a chance to see a variety of animals as well as gardens of great natural beauty.
Experience the Chicago Cultural Center, an architectural masterpiece. It always hosts free concerts, exhibitions and cultural-related activities.
Visit the Chicago Lakefront and explore its surroundings by walking, bicycling, and other means. Outdoor sports can be played while taking in beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find yourself at The Garfield Park Conservatory. This tropical oasis is known for its free admission and lush gardens, rare plants and quiet corners.
Walk along the Chicago River and enjoy. Most of the time, there will be some free public events, street performances and a wide choice of where to eat while enjoying a nice view of the river.
It's worthwhile to study in Chicago where students can access a truly mixed urban life besides the quality education. This city is a great place with endless learning opportunities.