Roosevelt University offers international students a welcoming environment, diverse programs, and a prime downtown Chicago location, but challenges include high costs of living, limited campus housing, and some administrative hurdles. Understanding these pros and cons can help international students make an informed choice about studying at Roosevelt University.
Background: About Roosevelt University
Founded in 1945, Roosevelt University is a private institution located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Illinois, with a secondary campus in Schaumburg. The university is known for its commitment to social justice, diversity, and inclusion. With approximately 4,000 students, Roosevelt offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, performing arts, science, education, and more. Its urban campus provides students access to Chicago’s cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities.
Academic Offerings and Flexibility
Roosevelt University offers over 70 undergraduate majors and nearly 40 graduate programs. International students can pursue degrees in business, computer science, hospitality management, psychology, performing arts, and more. The university is especially recognized for its Chicago College of Performing Arts and Heller College of Business. Flexible class schedules, including evening and weekend options, help students balance academic and work commitments. However, some specialized programs may have limited seats or infrequent course offerings, which can affect graduation timelines.
Pros: Benefits for International Students
- Diversity and Inclusion: Roosevelt has a strong reputation for fostering a diverse student body. International students often find an inclusive atmosphere, with classmates from various backgrounds.
- Location: Situated in downtown Chicago, Roosevelt offers unparalleled access to internships, job opportunities, and cultural experiences. Chicago is home to many Fortune 500 companies, museums, restaurants, and vibrant neighborhoods.
- Support Services: The Office of International Programs (OIP) provides visa guidance, orientation, academic advising, and social events tailored to international students.
- Small Class Sizes: Many classes have fewer than 20 students, allowing for more personalized attention from professors.
- Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are available for international students, which can help offset tuition costs. These are competitive but can be significant.
- Career Preparation: Roosevelt’s Career Development office assists with internships, resume building, interview skills, and job searches, including opportunities for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
Cons: Challenges and Drawbacks
- Tuition and Living Costs: Like many private universities in the U.S., Roosevelt’s tuition is relatively high. Combined with Chicago’s cost of living (housing, food, transportation), expenses can be a major concern, especially with limited on-campus housing.
- Limited Housing: Roosevelt has only one main residence hall (Wabash Building) for undergraduates, and housing is not guaranteed past the first year. Finding affordable, safe off-campus housing in central Chicago can be difficult and expensive.
- Administrative Hurdles: Some students report slow processing times for paperwork (like I-20 forms or transcripts) and complex procedures for registering for classes or applying for work authorization.
- Smaller Campus Life: While Roosevelt is in a vibrant city, its campus is compact, and traditional college activities (like large sports events or campus festivals) are less prominent than at larger universities.
- Weather: Chicago winters can be harsh, with cold temperatures and snow, which may be a shock for students from warmer climates.
How the International Student Process Works
International students must apply for admission and, if accepted, obtain an F-1 student visa. Roosevelt’s application process includes submission of transcripts, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent), and financial documentation. The Office of International Programs assists with the issuance of the I-20 form, which is required for visa interviews. Upon arrival, students participate in orientation sessions covering academic expectations, immigration regulations, and life in Chicago. Ongoing support is available for visa renewals, employment authorization (like CPT and OPT), and cultural adjustment.
Comparing Roosevelt to Other Chicago Universities
International students considering Roosevelt often compare it to other Chicago institutions such as DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). Here’s how Roosevelt stacks up:
- Size: Roosevelt is smaller, offering more intimate class settings, but may have fewer campus resources than larger universities.
- Focus: Roosevelt emphasizes social justice and diversity, which may appeal to students seeking an inclusive environment.
- Cost: Tuition is similar to other private universities but higher than public universities like UIC. Scholarships may help offset costs.
- Campus Life: Larger universities have more student organizations, sports, and events. Roosevelt compensates with city-based activities and partnerships.
- Location: All these universities are in Chicago, but Roosevelt’s location on Michigan Avenue is especially central and accessible.
Cost Considerations and Financial Aid
For the 2023-2024 academic year, undergraduate tuition at Roosevelt University was around $33,000 per year, with graduate tuition varying by program. International students must also budget for living expenses, estimated at $15,000–$18,000 per year for housing, food, transportation, and insurance. Health insurance is mandatory and can cost around $1,500–$2,000 per year. While Roosevelt does not offer need-based financial aid to international students, several merit scholarships are available, ranging from a few thousand dollars up to partial tuition coverage. External scholarships and on-campus employment (up to 20 hours per week during the semester) can help, but off-campus work is restricted by visa regulations.
Safety and Student Support
Roosevelt University is located in the Loop, a busy and generally safe part of downtown Chicago. The university has 24/7 security in its buildings and offers safety escorts for students walking late at night. Nevertheless, as with any large city, students should be mindful of their surroundings and follow basic safety precautions. The university provides health and counseling services, and the OIP offers support for cultural adaptation and crisis situations. Additionally, student organizations like the International Students Association help newcomers build a social network and adjust to campus life.
Alternatives and Special Considerations
Students interested in studying in Chicago have several alternatives. Public universities like the University of Illinois Chicago often offer lower tuition but may have larger class sizes and more competitive admissions. Other private universities, such as DePaul or Loyola, have different strengths (e.g., DePaul’s strong business and computing programs, Loyola’s pre-health focus). For those interested in the arts, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago or Columbia College Chicago are options. When considering Roosevelt, international students should weigh program offerings, campus culture, scholarship opportunities, and location preferences.
Common Problems Faced by International Students
- Cultural Adjustment: Moving to a new country can bring culture shock, homesickness, and language barriers. Roosevelt provides orientation and peer support, but adjustment can still be challenging.
- Finding Housing: Securing affordable, safe housing near campus is a frequent difficulty, especially after the first year when on-campus options are limited.
- Work Restrictions: U.S. visa regulations limit work opportunities. Students may only work on campus during the academic year and need special authorization (CPT, OPT) for internships or off-campus jobs.
- Healthcare Navigation: Understanding and using the U.S. healthcare system can be confusing. Roosevelt requires insurance and offers campus health services, but some students may struggle with access or costs.
How to Choose if Roosevelt Is Right for You
International students should consider several factors before applying to Roosevelt University:
- Academic Fit: Does Roosevelt offer your desired major or program, and does it have strong faculty or internships in your field?
- Budget: Can you afford tuition and living expenses, and are you eligible for scholarships?
- Location Preferences: Are you comfortable living in a large, busy city like Chicago, with its weather and urban lifestyle?
- Campus Environment: Do you prefer a small, diverse campus over a large, traditional university experience?
- Support Services: Does the university provide adequate support for international students, such as visa help, orientation, and counseling?
Visiting the campus (if possible), speaking with current students, and attending virtual information sessions can also help you decide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Roosevelt University accredited, and will my degree be recognized?
Yes, Roosevelt University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Its degrees are recognized in the U.S. and internationally, but always check with employers or licensing bodies in your home country for specific requirements. - Can international students work while studying at Roosevelt?
International students on F-1 visas can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic year. Off-campus work requires special authorization (CPT or OPT) and must be related to your field of study. - How difficult is it to get a student visa after being accepted?
Once admitted, Roosevelt provides the I-20 form needed for your F-1 visa application. Visa approval depends on demonstrating financial support and intent to return home after your studies, not just university acceptance. - What is the student life like for international students?
Student life is city-centric, with many students taking advantage of Chicago’s events, internships, and cultural sites. There are student clubs, but campus life is less traditional and more urban than at suburban or rural schools. - Is English support available for non-native speakers?
Yes, Roosevelt offers English language support, writing centers, and tutoring. Some programs may require additional proficiency proof or offer bridge programs for language development. - How safe is the Roosevelt University campus?
The campus is in a busy, generally safe downtown area with 24/7 security. As in any large city, students should take standard safety precautions, especially at night or when traveling off campus.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Roosevelt University offers international students a supportive, diverse environment and a strategic downtown location, but comes with high costs and some logistical challenges. By carefully considering academic interests, financial resources, and personal preferences, prospective students can determine whether Roosevelt is the right fit for their educational goals in the U.S.
See the main Roosevelt University pros and cons.