FAQs
General Information
- How can I learn more about SCPS programs?
We encourage interested students to attend an open house, schedule an individual appointment with our Enrollment Advisor, or attend a class. To learn more about these options, please review our Visit Us page.
- Does SCPS offer any distance learning or online classes?
At this time we do not offer distance learning or online options. However, our programs are designed to meet the schedule of working adults, so classes are in the evenings and on weekends.
- May I only apply to the upcoming session?
SCPS offers rolling admissions so you can apply to any session. Be sure to select the appropriate term and year for consideration. SCPS offers five 8-week sessions per year: Fall I, Fall II, Spring I, Spring II, and Summer.
The Application Process
- What are the application deadlines and term starts?
Deadlines and term start dates can be found here.
- Is there an application fee?
If you complete the online application, the fee is waived. If you submit a paper application, you must submit a $25 application fee. The check should be made payable to Loyola University Chicago and sent to:
Graduate & Professional Enrollment Management
Loyola University Chicago
820 N. Michigan Ave., suite 800
Chicago, Illinois 60611 - Should I list all schools I attended on the application?
When listing the institutions that you have previously attended, you must list all institutions you have attended where you took courses for credit. If you neglect to list all institutions where you took courses for credit that is considered academic fraud. If you audited a class or took a class for no credit, it is not necessary to list that institution.
- Do I have to submit all application materials at once?
By applying online, you can save your information and log in later with a username and password. Once all sections are complete, click "Submit" and the application will be immediately sent to the processing office. You also may return to the application after submission to upload additional documents.
- How do I know if my application has been submitted successfully?
When you have completed the application form, click the “Submit” button. You will receive a confirmation email immediately after submission. It takes us about 24 hours to process online applications. At this time you will receive a second email from the Graduate & Professional Enrollment Management office confirming that your application is in process.
Supporting Materials
- Will Loyola request my transcripts for me?
No. You must contact all institutions you previously attended and request official transcripts be sent to Loyola. Official university/college transcripts bearing the official seal of the institution and the signature of the registrar are required for all previous post-secondary education. Certified copies are acceptable; photocopies are not. Transcripts can be sent to:
Graduate & Professional Enrollment Management
Loyola University Chicago
820 N. Michigan Ave., suite 800
Chicago, Illinois 60611 - What if my G.P.A. from a previous institution is below a 2.0?
If you have concerns about your previous academic record, we encourage you to address this issue in your personal statement.
- If I am an international applicant, what transcripts and other materials do I submit?
Official transcripts are required for international applicants, even if the transcripts are not written in English. International applicants are also required to complete a course-by-course evaluation through Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc. (ECE). This process verifies whether the degree earned is the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree. You may also be required to take the TOEFL. Visit the Application Process page for more information.
- How much emphasis is placed on the personal statement by the admission review committee
The personal statement is an integral part of your application. Please be sure to double check your personal statement for spelling or grammar issues. Also, keep in mind, if you cut and paste your statement into the online application the formatting may be altered so please review again before submitting. The SCPS Scholarship committee may review your personal statement in consideration for certain admission scholarships.
- When may I expect to hear my admission status?
Once all your documents are received, it takes approximately 10 business days for the application review committee to make decisions on your documents. Please be sure to give the admission committee the necessary amount of time to review your file before a session begins.
Financial Aid
- If I work full-time, will I qualify for Financial Aid?
Most people qualify for financial aid in one form or another regardless of income. We encourage all applicants to complete the Free Application for Federal Aid. Admitted students to some of our programs may qualify for scholarships.
- What if I’m not sure whether I want to use Financial Aid?
You should complete the online FAFSA form even if you are just considering using government financial aid. This way, if you do need financial aid, it will be an option for you. Filling out the FAFSA form does not mean you are agreeing to use any of the financial aid grants or loans you are awarded. Once you are admitted to a program and your financial aid forms are complete, you will receive a separate letter informing you of how much the government has awarded and you will then write in the amount you would like to use.
- Are there scholarships available?
Yes. SCPS offers several department scholarships, please our Scholarships page to view descriptions and eligibility requirements. If you qualify for a scholarship- you should apply. Be sure to view the recently approved Osher scholarship! Please be aware of scholarship deadlines which are posted on the SCPS website.