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Master of Liberal Arts Tuition and Scholarships

Tuition

Tuition:
$4,325 per course (2025-2026 academic year)

Total program tuition:
$38,925 (based on taking nine courses in the current academic year)

Tuition is subject to change.

The cost of books varies by course, but is typically under $100. For many courses, texts are also available online free of cost.

Enrolling in a program of study includes additional costs beyond the tuition listed here. For a full list of direct and indirect expenses associated with the cost of attendance, please visit the Cost of Attendance page of the Graduate Financial Aid Office website.

Scholarships

The Master of Liberal Arts program offers partial scholarships to support students pursuing graduate study at the University of Chicago. Prospective students have the opportunity to be considered for scholarship support as part of the MLA application process. Because scholarship funds are limited, we highly encourage applying early. 

This support includes our Mary Evaline Wagner Scholarship Fund, a named scholarship fund that honors Mary Evaline Wagner’s lifelong belief in the transformative power of education. She attended the University of Chicago in the 1950s, at a time when higher education remained an uncommon path for many women, and credited her education with opening doors to connection, purpose, and a meaningful career. 

The Wagner Scholarship reflects Mary’s commitment to expanding access to rigorous, inquiry-driven education for adult learners, especially those who bring rich life experience to their studies while balancing professional commitments and other responsibilities. Through this lasting gift, her legacy will continue to support MLA students as they pursue intellectual growth and professional fulfillment. 

At a Glance:
UChicago MLA Tuition & Financial Aid

  • Tuition (2025–26): $4,325 per course; program total: $38,925 (based on 9 courses)
  • Merit scholarships are available
  • Books typically cost under $100 per course
  • FAFSA school code: 001774

Financial Aid

Student Loans

Students who are enrolled in at least two courses each quarter are eligible to apply for federal student loans. To apply for federal aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

UChicago FAFSA code: 001774

Students who are enrolled in one course per quarter, as well as international students, may consider taking out private loans. Visit the UChicago financial aid website for more information

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Many organizations provide tuition reimbursement benefits to their employees. Check with your organization to learn about the benefits available to you. This program builds skills that are valued by a wide range of employers such as critical thinking, strategic thinking, communication, writing, listening, understanding others’ perspectives, creativity, problem solving, and adaptability to change.

University Staff Employee Tuition Remission

Benefits-eligible UChicago staff employees may apply for tuition remission. The University will pay up to 50% of the tuition for up to two courses per quarter. Please submit the Staff Tuition Assistance Benefit form directly to the University Benefits Office.

Swipe Up: Is an MLA Right for You?