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Where the most Inspired Musicians
become the most Inspiring Music Teachers

Tuition &

Financial Aid

What is Financial Aid?

Financial aid is designed to bridge the gap between the resources of students and their families and the cost of attending VanderCook College of Music. Although VanderCook’s tuition costs are less than those of many colleges and universities, parents and students may need help meeting yearly expenses.

VanderCook College of Music awards financial assistance to 100% of its undergraduate students.

Our Financial Aid Office will work with you to make your education at VanderCook affordable. At VanderCook, we realize that no two families are the same, and our Financial Aid Office will work with you to create a financial assistance plan to meet your educational expenses. VanderCook’s financial aid staff help in both the search for financial aid and the application process. Be aware that specific deadlines and refund requirements apply to financial aid applicants and can affect eligibility.

What types of financial aid are available?

Students may qualify for loans, scholarships and/or grants. Learn about the types of financial aid available by clicking here.
If you are a veteran, please visit the information page to learn what options are available by clicking here.

What is the tuition at VanderCook?

VanderCook offers a few levels of study. For information about tuition and fees, click here.

Getting Started

Click here to get started with financial aid.

Student Resources

2024-2025 College Catalog

Performance Opportunities

You will perform over 20 times a year!

As a member of the Philharmonic Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Concert Choir, String Orchestra, Collegiate Chorale, Percussion Ensemble and Jazz Band, you will perform over 20 times a year on campus and throughout the city of Chicago.

Schedule a Campus Visit or Audition

Contact Admissions at
312.788.1120 or

The Midwest Clinic

VanderCook co-founded the Midwest Clinic: An international band and orchestra conference held in Chicago with more than 18,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 40 countries.  Throughout the history of The Midwest Clinic, VanderCook is the only college symphonic band invited to perform every year.

Photo Gallery

Student Spotlight

Student Spotlight

Maria Pulido

MECA Student

“The MECA courses at VanderCook have improved my approach to teaching music in a way that is more pragmatic, fun, and creative. The MECA program has helped rejuvinate my passion for teaching children”

Inspiring
Motivating
Comprehensive
Pragmatic

VanderCook’s Music Education Center of America (MECA) Continuing Education program offers graduate courses for teachers seeking practical knowledge and skills that can be used in their classrooms immediately.

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3140 South Federal Street
Chicago, IL 60616-3731
(312) 225-6288

The mission of VanderCook College of Music is to enrich the lives of present and future generations by developing uniquely skilled music teachers who exhibit strong character, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

© 2024 VanderCook College of Music. All Rights Reserved.
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