Tuition
Tuition:
$4,480 per course (2026-2027 academic year)
Total program tuition:
$40,320 (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 (2026–27): $4,480 per course; program total: $40,320 (based on 9 courses)
- Merit scholarships are available
- Books typically cost under $100 per course
- FAFSA school code: 001774
Financial Aid
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about our master’s degree in liberal arts that aren’t answered here? Find answers on our FAQ page
How much does the Master of Liberal Arts cost?
Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $4,480 per course. The degree requires nine courses, including the thesis or special project, for a program total of $40,320 at current rates. Beyond a one-time transcript fee charged when you begin the program, the MLA charges no additional fees from quarter to quarter. MLA tuition rates are subject to modest annual increases.
Are there scholarships for the MLA?
Merit scholarships are available for MLA students. When you apply, you will have the option to request consideration for a scholarship by opting in within the application and submitting an additional essay. Apply early for the best chance to qualify.
What does the MLA cost besides tuition?
Books vary by course but typically cost under $100, and for many courses the texts are available online at no cost. MLA students are not charged the additional graduate student fees assessed in some other programs. The Bursar’s cost-of-attendance page lists the full set of direct and indirect expenses.
Can I apply for federal student loans?
Students enrolled in at least two courses each quarter are eligible to apply for federal student aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid; the University of Chicago school code is 001774.
Can employer benefits help cover tuition?
Many organizations offer tuition reimbursement or professional development benefits that may be applied toward the MLA. The program strengthens critical thinking, communication, and judgment, skills that can bring value to employees across a wide range of roles and industries.
Because employer benefits vary, check with your human resources office or benefits administrator to confirm what your plan covers, whether the MLA is eligible, and whether you need approval before enrolling.
I work at the University of Chicago. Can I use tuition remission?
Benefits-eligible University staff may apply for tuition remission, under which the University pays up to 50 percent of tuition for as many as two courses per quarter. Work with your department’s HR team to submit the Staff Tuition Assistance Benefit form directly to the University Benefits Office.