Moody Bible Institute logo

Moody Bible Institute

Chicago, IL Private ยท Urban www.moody.edu
Accept Rate
97.54%
Grad Rate
61.3%
Enrollment
1,586
Tuition
$15,356
Median Salary
$45,399
Overall Grade
C
B-
Academics
C+
Value
C
Admissions
B+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Moody Bible Institute offers a faith-centered community with a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and ministry. The campus is known for its tight-knit, supportive environment where students are encouraged to deepen their relationship with God while pursuing their studies.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

97.54%
Open Admission

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

Highlight your faith journey and ministry involvement in your application to demonstrate alignment with Moody's mission. Since standardized tests are not required, focus on strong personal essays and letters of recommendation that showcase your character and commitment.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Moody Bible Institute specializes in biblical studies, ministry training, and theology, providing a rigorous academic foundation for those pursuing careers in ministry. The institution also offers programs in business, psychology, and intercultural studies, allowing students to integrate their faith with diverse professional fields.

Popular Majors

Theology
100%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

61.3%
Graduation Rate
89.8%
Retention Rate
1,586
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$15,356
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$25,007
After financial aid
Total Cost
$34,510
Cost of attendance/year
32.7%
Receive Pell Grants
38.9%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Chicago

Moody students enjoy easy access to Chicago's vibrant cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and diverse dining options. The city offers countless internship and volunteer opportunities in urban ministries, nonprofits, and businesses, enriching the student experience.

Local Rent Check

$1,507 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Chicago
Explore Chicago

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$61,424
$0Est. 4 Years: $61,424

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($45,399):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The Chicago campus is located in a secure neighborhood with active campus safety measures, including security personnel and surveillance. Students are encouraged to use campus safety resources and stay aware of their surroundings when exploring the city.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong emphasis on spiritual formation and ministry training
  • โœ“ Affordable private education with a clear value proposition
  • โœ“ Access to internship and volunteer opportunities in Chicago
  • โœ“ Supportive, close-knit campus community

Cons

  • โœ— Limited program diversity outside of ministry-focused fields
  • โœ— Graduation rate of 61.3% may indicate retention challenges
  • โœ— Location in Chicago requires navigating urban safety and cost considerations

Notable Alumni

Billy Graham
Renowned evangelist and founder of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
Charles Swindoll
Influential pastor, author, and radio broadcaster.
Joni Eareckson Tada
Christian author, speaker, and disability advocate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Moody Bible Institute has a high acceptance rate of 97.54%, making it accessible to many applicants.

No, Moody Bible Institute does not require SAT or ACT scores for admissions.

Tuition at Moody Bible Institute is $15,356 per year, which is relatively affordable for a private institution.

Graduates earn an average of $45,399 in early-career salaries, reflecting a strong ROI for ministry and service-oriented careers.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru) Moody Publishers Chicago Area Churches Christian Nonprofits
Smart Start Score
56

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 2,002
  • In-State Tuition $15,356
  • Zip Code 60610

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 51.6% โ™€ 48.4%

The Money Talk

With a tuition rate of $15,356, Moody provides affordable private education compared to many other institutions. The average early-career earnings of $45,399 reflect a solid return on investment, especially for those pursuing ministry or service-oriented careers.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $15,356
Housing (12 mo) $18,084
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $40,640
With avg financial aid:
$25,007/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.