Chamberlain University: 2025 Admissions, Programs & Campus Life

Chamberlain University is a private university and has been a part of nursing education for more than 125 years. Its main campus is located in Addison, Illinois. The university also has additional campuses across the United States.

Chamberlain partners with over 11,000 healthcare sites, giving students access to clinical experience and career opportunities. It’s also known as the #1 provider of nursing degrees to minority students in the U.S.

Today, the university has campuses across the country and strong online offerings. Programs are designed to meet real-world healthcare needs, with flexible schedules and hands-on training.

This guide walks you through Chamberlain University admissions, programs, tuition, scholarships, and more, so you can decide if it’s the right next step for you.

About Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University is a private school focused on nursing and healthcare. It has 23 campuses in the U.S. and also offers programs online. You can enroll in full-time, part-time, or Chamberlain University online courses, depending on your program and schedule.

It began in 1889 as the Deaconess School of Nursing, following Florence Nightingale's model of care. In 2005, the school became part of Adtalem Global Education and was renamed Chamberlain, a word meaning “chief steward”—a fitting title for someone who manages patient care.

According to Edurank, it ranks:

• #7,798 of 14,131 universities in the world
• #2,081 of 2,597 in North America
• #1,988 of 2,496 in the United States
• #82 of 100 in Illinois

The school has a high acceptance rate of 89%, making it accessible to many students. Over the years, more than 177,000 students, alumni, and faculty have been part of the Chamberlain community.

Chamberlain University Programs

The university is ranked #646–686 in Nursing nationwide and offers degrees from the bachelor’s to the doctoral level. With flexible online and on-campus options, students can learn at their own pace while gaining real-world experience. Programs are designed to support both new students and working professionals.

Bachelor’s Programs at Chamberlain University

The bachelor’s degrees prepare students for entry-level roles in nursing.

Master’s Programs at Chamberlain University

These programs are for RNs who want to move into advanced roles. The Chamberlain University FNP program and other nurse practitioner tracks are popular among working nurses.

Doctorate Program at Chamberlain University

The doctorate program is aimed at experienced nurses who want to lead in clinical or academic settings.

Chamberlain University Admissions Requirements

To apply to a program at Chamberlain University, you must:

• Complete the online application form
• Pay the non-refundable application fee
• Submit official transcripts from all previous schools (minimum GPA of 2.75)
• Provide any documents required by your specific program

For Pre-Licensure BSN Programs:

• Take the HESI Admission Assessment (A2)
• Complete a drug screening, fingerprint check, and background check

For RN to BSN and Post-Licensure Programs:

• Hold an active RN license issued in the U.S. or an NCSBN-affiliated jurisdiction

For Graduate Nursing Programs (MSN, DNP):

• Submit proof of a current, unrestricted RN license
• Some tracks, like the Chamberlain University FNP program, may require a skills assessment

Note: Physician Assistant (MPAS) applicants should check the separate admissions guide for that program.

Chamberlain University Deadlines

Chamberlain University runs on a year-round calendar with multiple start dates. Each semester has two 8-week sessions. 

Key Chamberlain University Application Dates for 2025–2026

Start Dates by Program

• Chamberlain University RN to BSN and online programs: Start every 8 weeks
• BSN programs (campus-based): Up to 6 start dates per year
• MPAS (Physician Assistant):
  
  • Chicago: September 2025
  • Phoenix: September 2026

Students can apply year-round and begin their studies in any session that fits their schedule.

How to Apply to Chamberlain University

International students can apply to Chamberlain’s undergraduate or graduate programs by completing a few required steps:

1. Complete the Chamberlain University nursing online application: Visit chamberlain.edu/apply and submit your details.
2. Pay the non-refundable fee: $95 for bachelor’s programs (BSN), or $60 for RN to BSN, graduate, and PA programs.
3. Submit official academic transcripts.
4. Demonstrate English proficiency: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo 
5. Provide proof of financial support: Bank statements or sponsor letters.
6. Attend an admissions interview: Schedule a meeting with a Chamberlain representative after submitting your application.
7. ‍Visa and Immigration: International students who are accepted will be issued an I‑20 form, which is needed to apply for an F‑1 student visa.

Chamberlain University Tuition Fees

Chamberlain University offers flexible ways to manage tuition and fees. Options like financial aid, scholarships, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are available to eligible students.

Note: Tuition rates and fees are subject to change. 

Chamberlain University Scholarships for International Students

Below is a list of scholarships open to international students:

Student Housing at Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University does not provide on-campus housing. Most students find off-campus options near their respective campus locations. These options include shared apartments, private rentals, and student-focused communities. Finding the right housing can be challenging for international students, but with Amber, the process becomes easy.

Whether you're in Addison, Chicago, New Orleans, or any of Chamberlain's other locations, Amber helps you search, compare, and book your perfect housing, all in one place.

Some popular options near the main campus in Addison, Illinois are:

• Rancho Palisades 
• Chatham Court and Reflections 
• Canyon Creek 
• The Landing at McCallum 
• The Courts of Bent Tree