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Aurora University

Aurora University campus
Aurora University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, accredited higher education institution offering students an excellent education. We were founded in 1893 in Mendota, Illinois, as a seminary college, before moving to Aurora in 1912.

Our main campus is in Aurora, the second largest city in Illinois, and located approximately 45 miles from Chicago. AU offers:
  • Full-time and part-time programs for residential and commuter students.
  • Undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates and endorsements.
  • One-year graduate programs allow you to complete both your bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.
AU is recognized by the United States government as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). This means we celebrate diversity and serve as a national model for private universities.
Accepts first-year applicationsMidwestPrivateSuburbanMedium (2,001 to 14,999)Co-Ed

Academic programs

  • Science
  • Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Business
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Communication
  • Music
  • Finance/Accounting
  • Government/Political Science
  • Health Science
  • Performing Arts
  • Social Science
  • Visual Arts

Student experience

  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Disability Services
  • Intramural/Club Sports
  • Military/Veteran Services
  • On-Campus Housing
  • Undergraduate Research

Application information

First-year

Apply by the November 15 Priority Application deadline to receive the benefits below:
  • Application review and decision within two business days.
  • Among the first to receive your merit scholarship offer.
  • Priority invitation to the Freshman Admitted Student Day.
  • Information about SOAR: Summer Orientation and Registration.
  • Preferential housing selection.

Transfer

Apply by the November 15 Priority Application deadline to receive the benefits below:
  • Application review and decision within one business day.
  • Among the first to receive your merit scholarship offer.
  • Priority class registration.
  • Preferential housing selection.

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Additional information

We understand that a college education can be one of the biggest investments a family makes. At AU, there are no boundaries in the pursuit of educational excellence and a college degree is within your financial reach. 

At about $29,000 a year, AU’s tuition is $10,000 to $15,000 less than many of its peer institutions. We are dedicated to putting the needs of our students first through careful management, thoughtful stewardship, and wise investments. This is how we keep our tuition low in relation to peers.

Nearly 100% of our students receive financial assistance. From need-based aid to scholarships, our financial aid team will work with you to create an individualized plan to help make college affordable.

When you attend AU, you are making an investment in your future. You'll receive an exceptional education that will prepare you for life after graduation.

Visit us

See for yourself what it's like to be part of the AU community. During your visit you'll be able to: 
  • Take a campus tour.
  • See a residence hall.
  • Meet with a faculty member in your major of interest.
  • Get an estimated cost of your attendance.
  • Receive an on-site admission decision during the visit if you bring your official transcripts with you.
  • Get an evaluation of how your credits will transfer to AU if you will be a transfer student.