How challenging is the workload at UChicago?
I've been researching different colleges and UChicago keeps coming up as an option I'm interested in, but I keep hearing about how intense the classes are. For anyone who's attended or knows someone who goes there, how hard is the workload really?
I enjoy school but I've heard stories about students pulling all-nighters regularly, and I'm worried about balancing academics with social life or other interests. Is the stress manageable or is it overwhelming most of the time? I definitely want to be challenged, but I don't want to burn out either. Any honest feedback would be much appreciated!
I enjoy school but I've heard stories about students pulling all-nighters regularly, and I'm worried about balancing academics with social life or other interests. Is the stress manageable or is it overwhelming most of the time? I definitely want to be challenged, but I don't want to burn out either. Any honest feedback would be much appreciated!
2 weeks ago
•
9 views
Joana Lepuri
• 2 weeks ago
Advisor
UChicago’s reputation for academic intensity is well earned. The university values deep intellectual engagement, so you’ll often encounter challenging readings, rigorous problem sets, and thought-provoking discussions. The Core Curriculum alone asks you to explore a wide range of subjects, which can be unfamiliar and demanding for many students.
Many students find the transition to UChicago’s workload an adjustment, even if they excelled academically in high school. You’ll hear about occasional late nights or all-nighters, especially around midterms and finals. However, this is not all so different from other schools. I and other students I've talked to have found that working in study groups with friends has been very useful for managing the workload.
It's all a matter of time management and balance based on your priorities! It's no secret that the Core is challenging, but it is not meant to swamp you in work at the same time--it is only meant to give you a well-rounded introduction to the rest of your academic career. In my experience, I have never had to pull an all-nighter (that wasn't my own fault of time management!).
Whatever you do, it's important not to fall in the trap of thinking that your busy schedule is a badge of honor or a competitor in the suffering Olympics. It's very possible to complete schoolwork, spend time with friends, and be a part of an RSO (a Registered Student Organization), in my experience. I recommend forming study groups for getting through many of your classes, as well as purposefully making time for yourself. The work will get done eventually, but you need to be alert and rested for it!
So, the workload at UChicago is demanding, but it’s not designed to break students. If you’re willing to work consistently, seek help when needed, and maintain interests outside of academics, you can absolutely thrive. The university environment is intellectually vibrant, and most students find pride and fulfillment in the challenge. You’ll get out of it what you put in, and with good habits, burnout isn’t inevitable.
Many students find the transition to UChicago’s workload an adjustment, even if they excelled academically in high school. You’ll hear about occasional late nights or all-nighters, especially around midterms and finals. However, this is not all so different from other schools. I and other students I've talked to have found that working in study groups with friends has been very useful for managing the workload.
It's all a matter of time management and balance based on your priorities! It's no secret that the Core is challenging, but it is not meant to swamp you in work at the same time--it is only meant to give you a well-rounded introduction to the rest of your academic career. In my experience, I have never had to pull an all-nighter (that wasn't my own fault of time management!).
Whatever you do, it's important not to fall in the trap of thinking that your busy schedule is a badge of honor or a competitor in the suffering Olympics. It's very possible to complete schoolwork, spend time with friends, and be a part of an RSO (a Registered Student Organization), in my experience. I recommend forming study groups for getting through many of your classes, as well as purposefully making time for yourself. The work will get done eventually, but you need to be alert and rested for it!
So, the workload at UChicago is demanding, but it’s not designed to break students. If you’re willing to work consistently, seek help when needed, and maintain interests outside of academics, you can absolutely thrive. The university environment is intellectually vibrant, and most students find pride and fulfillment in the challenge. You’ll get out of it what you put in, and with good habits, burnout isn’t inevitable.
Joana Lepuri
Chicago, IL
University of Chicago B.A. in Political Science, Public Policy, 2021 | Loyola University Chicago School of Law J.D., 2027
Experience
7 years