- Unique strength within diversity. At East-West University, unique sense of identity prevails. Strength of the university comes from its concerned and caring faculty and staff. Within the environment of East-West is a sense of community. Finally, diversity is the real strength of East-West University. East-West University was founded in 1980 with the mission of providing quality, affordable, multi-cultural, and forward-looking higher education to Chicago and the world. The institution has grown and prospered over the years, from a noble idea to a significant institution of higher learning accommodating nearly 1200 students. East-West has repeatedly been cited as having the lowest tuition among private schools in the Chicago area, making a higher education with personal attention more accessible. East-West has one of the highest percentages of international students of any baccalaureate school in the nation; it is the only majority-minority four year college in the state of Illinois; the faculty and staff is among the most diverse of any institution of higher learning in the nation; its graduates have spread throughout the world making a difference; and its close-knit, family atmosphere has been successful in helping students to meet the challenges of making it through college to graduation.
School Highlights
East-West University serves 611 students (100% of students are full-time).
The college's student:teacher ratio of 14:1 is lower than the state community college average of 21:1.
Minority enrollment is 98% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the state average of 53%.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Enrollment: 611 students
- Private-state tuition: $19,545
- Acceptance Rate: 41%
- Student:teacher ratio: 14:1
- Minority enrollment: 98%
- Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
Top Rankings
East-West University ranks among the top 20% of public schools in Illinois for:
Category
Attribute
Diversity
School Resources
School Overview
The teacher population of 43 teachers has stayed relatively flat over five years.
East-West University
(IL) Community College Avg.
Carnegie Classification
Baccalaureate Colleges: Arts & Sciences Focus
Associate's Colleges: Mixed Transfer/Career & Technical-High Nontraditional
Institution Level
Four or more years
At least 2 but less than 4 years
Institution Control
Private not-for-profit
Public
Total Faculty
43 staff
227 staff

School Calendar
Student Body
The student population of East-West University has grown by 36% over five years.
The student:teacher ratio of 14:1 has increased from 10:1 over five years.
The East-West University diversity score of 0.75 is more than the state average of 0.69. The school's diversity has grown by 39% over five years.
Total Enrollment
611 students
3,270 students

Student : Teacher Ratio
14:1
21:1

# Full-Time Students
611 students
1,007 students

# Part-Time Students
5 students
2,747 students



# Enrollment Undergraduate
611 students
328 students
# Full-Time Undergraduate Students
611 students
1,007 students

# Full-Time Graduate Students
n/a
43 students
# Part-Time Undergraduate Students
5 students
3,310 students
# Part-Time Graduate Students
n/a
18 students
Total Dormitory Capacity
n/a
132 students

% American Indian/Alaskan
n/a
n/a

% Asian
1%
6%

% Hispanic
33%
26%

% Black
37%
13%

% White
2%
47%

% Hawaiian
n/a
n/a

% Two or more races
2%
3%

% Non Resident races
23%
1%

% Unknown races
1%
4%


Diversity Score
0.75
0.69

College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in less than 4 years)
n/a
0.4%
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in 4 years or more than 4 years)
0.116%
0.38%
Average Graduate Earnings (10 Years)
$26,900
$31,800

Tuition and Acceptance Rate
The private state tuition of $19,545 is more than the state average of $14,511. The private state tuition has declined by 13% over four years.
Private State Tuition Fees
$19,545
$14,511

% Students Receiving Some Financial Aid
99%
82%

Median Debt for Graduates
$28,810
$8,187

Median Debt for Dropouts
$6,386
$4,618

Acceptance Rate
41%
61%
SAT Reading
n/a
390
SAT Math
n/a
360
SAT Writing
n/a
355
ACT Composite (Year 2018)
17
17
ACT English
n/a
17
ACT Math
n/a
17
Source: 2024 (or latest year available) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does East-West University cost?
East-West University's private state tuition is approximately $19,545.
What is the acceptance rate of East-West University?
The acceptance rate of East-West University is 41%, which is lower than the state average of 61%.
What is East-West University's ranking?
East-West University ranks among the top 20% of community college in Illinois for: Diversity in US community colleges, Average community college minority breakdown and Percent of students receiving financial aid.
In what neighborhood is East-West University located?
East-West University is located in the Chicago Loop neighborhood of Chicago, IL. There are 4 other community '.colleges.' located in Chicago Loop.
Recent Articles

How to Know if Community College is Right for You
A comprehensive guide examining five key factors to consider when deciding if community college is the right educational path, including cost considerations, academic performance, career-specific training, transition to independence, and schedule flexibility.

January 12, 2025
Unlocking Airport Career Opportunities: Your Guide to Ground JobsDiscover the diverse range of ground jobs at mid-size U.S. airports, their educational requirements, and how community colleges can prepare you for these exciting careers.

January 07, 2025
Adult Learners: Upgrading Your SkillsWe offer straightforward advice on identifying transferable skills, exploring job opportunities, leveraging community resources, and embracing lifelong learning. With relatable examples and encouragement, this guide aims to empower readers to navigate the job market confidently and successfully transition into new careers.