Bachelor of Science [B.S] (Physics and Computer Science)
Field of Study:
$50,270 /Yr
Loyola University Chicago’s Bachelor of Science in Physics and Computer Science is a four-year undergraduate programme combining rigorous physics and computer science training. The programme requires strong proficiency in mathematics and logical thinking. Total cost of attendance reaches US$101,454 per year (INR 96.77 Lakhs). Intake is rolling admissions with priority deadline December 1. The programme is ideal for Indian students seeking interdisciplinary STEM careers in quantum computing, AI, or scientific research.
This major prepares graduates for advanced study and industry roles requiring both physics fundamentals and computational expertise. The curriculum uniquely balances theoretical physics with practical computer science, rather than treating them separately. Loyola’s liberal arts foundation strengthens communication and critical thinking alongside technical depth. The programme is particularly distinctive for emphasising applied interdisciplinary areas such as quantum computing, cybersecurity, computational physics, and optical communication. Ideal applicants possess strong mathematical foundation, problem-solving ability, and genuine curiosity about how physics and computation intersect.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum: 60% physics courses, 35% computer science electives, 5% mathematics specialisation — rare combination outside top research universities.
- STEM work permit advantage: Graduates qualify for 36-month OPT extension in the USA, unlocking three years of full-time post-study work opportunities.
- Industry-ready outcomes: 90% graduate employment rate, with roles in R&D, quantum computing research, artificial intelligence, and scientific computing sectors.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline: 1 December 2025.
This rolling deadline allows applications after the priority date, but Indian students should submit by December 1 for priority consideration. WES evaluation of Indian 12th-standard transcripts typically takes 10-14 days, so initiate that process by mid-November 2025.
Also Check: Loyola University Chicago Admission Requirements and Process
Loyola University Chicago Physics and Computer Science Fees and Living Costs 2026
The total cost of attendance for this four-year programme is substantial for international students.
| Cost Component | 2026 Annual (USD) | 2026 Annual (INR) | Four-Year Total (USD) | Four-Year Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | US$56,930 | INR 54.34 Lakhs | US$227,720 | INR 2.17 Crore |
| Mandatory Fees | US$1,580 | INR 1.51 Lakhs | US$6,320 | INR 6.03 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance | US$3,600 | INR 3.43 Lakhs | US$14,400 | INR 13.73 Lakhs |
| Books and Materials | US$1,200 | INR 1.14 Lakhs | US$4,800 | INR 4.58 Lakhs |
| Room and Board | US$18,572 | INR 17.71 Lakhs | US$74,288 | INR 70.85 Lakhs |
| Total Annual | US$81,882 | INR 78.13 Lakhs | US$327,528 | INR 3.12 Crore |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.21 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- Tuition increase: From US$47,000 in 2025 to US$56,930 in 2026, representing a 21% year-on-year rise — typical for private US universities post-pandemic.
- Health insurance is mandatory for international students and covers emergency medical, hospital, and preventive care throughout your study period.
- Books for computer science and physics labs are higher than average humanities majors, typically US$300-400 per semester.
- Room and board assumes on-campus housing for all four years; off-campus rental near Chicago may cost less but requires additional transportation budgets.
Cost of Living in Chicago for Physics and Computer Science Students
| Expense Category | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food and Groceries | US$250 | INR 23,803 | US$3,000 | INR 2.86 Lakhs |
| Transport (Chicago Transit) | US$65 | INR 6,189 | US$780 | INR 74,364 |
| Personal Care and Toiletries | US$50 | INR 4,761 | US$600 | INR 57,126 |
| Entertainment and Social | US$80 | INR 7,617 | US$960 | INR 91,402 |
| Total Monthly (On-Campus) | US$445 | INR 42,408 | US$5,340 | INR 5.09 Lakhs |
Tip for Indian Students: Chicago’s cost of living is lower than Boston or San Francisco. Many Indian students find US$400-500 monthly sufficient for personal expenses beyond room and board, with on-campus dining available at a subsidised rate for undergraduates.
Read More: Cost of Living in the United States for Indian Students
Loyola University Chicago Physics and Computer Science Admission 2026
Loyola operates a rolling admissions system, meaning decisions are made as applications are reviewed rather than on a fixed date. Priority consideration for the Fall 2026 intake closes December 1, 2025. Applications continue after this date if space remains, but Indian applicants should aim for the priority window to maximise funding opportunities.
Academic Eligibility
| Eligibility Criterion | Minimum Requirement | Typical Admitted Profile |
|---|---|---|
| GPA (12th Standard/High School) | 3.0 unweighted | 3.6-3.8 |
| SAT (if submitted) | Not required (test-optional) | 1,200-1,390 |
| ACT (if submitted) | Not required (test-optional) | 27-32 |
| Mathematics in High School | Calculus or equivalent recommended | Calculus completed |
| Physics in High School | Physics strongly recommended | Advanced or IB Physics completed |
- Loyola is test-optional, but Indian applicants with SAT/ACT scores above the typical admitted range strengthen their candidacy, especially if GPA is below 3.5.
- Most admitted students have completed calculus; pre-calculus students may need additional summer coursework before starting.
- AP or IB credit in physics and computer science may reduce coursework requirements.
English Language Proficiency (ELP) for Indian Applicants
All international students must demonstrate English proficiency through standardised testing.
| Test | Overall Minimum | Reading | Writing | Speaking | Listening |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 79 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 18 |
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| Duolingo English Test | 110 | 110 (individual sections scaled) | — | — | — |
| PTE Academic | 53 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
- Indian students often score well in reading and listening but must focus on speaking and writing sections; IELTS allows exemption if 12 years of schooling were in English.
- TOEFL preparation takes 6-8 weeks; IELTS requires 8-12 weeks for most Indian applicants due to the speaking component.
- Scores above the minimum (e.g., TOEFL 100+) improve fellowship and scholarship prospects.
Loyola’s overall university ranking places it in the top 15% of US universities by research output and student outcomes, though the Physics and Computer Science programme itself is not separately ranked by international rankings bodies. The programme’s strength lies in its applied focus and industry partnerships rather than theoretical research standing.
Tip for Indian Students: TOEFL and IELTS preparation should begin in July-August to test and score by October 2025, allowing time to compile your full application. Many Indian students find coaching classes unnecessary; self-study via official practice materials yields strong results.
Also Check: F-1 Student Visa Requirements and Process for Indian Applicants
Loyola University Chicago Physics and Computer Science Application 2026
The application process for Loyola’s physics and computer science programme follows the standard undergraduate admission timeline. Rolling admissions mean you can apply anytime, but earlier submission within the priority window strengthens your profile.
| Milestone | Intake | Expected Deadline | Admission Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority Admission Deadline | Fall 2026 | 1 December 2025 | Open |
| Standard Application Deadline | Fall 2026 | 1 April 2026 | Open (rolling) |
| Priority Admission Deadline | Spring 2027 | 1 November 2025 | Open |
| Spring Semester Start | Spring 2027 | 15 January 2027 | N/A |
- Apply via the Loyola Application portal on the official website; no separate physics or computer science application required.
- Indian applicants submitting transcripts through WES typically need an additional 14 days for official credential evaluation.
- Merit scholarships are primarily awarded to applicants from the priority deadline cohort; post-priority applications compete for limited funding.
Application Tip: Submit your application in September-October to benefit from priority review and scholarship consideration. Loyola reviews applications in rolling batches; early submission signals genuine interest.
Check Out: Loyola University Chicago Complete Admission Guide and Application Checklist
Loyola University Chicago Physics and Computer Science Scholarships 2026
Loyola offers merit-based scholarships to international applicants, though funding is limited and highly competitive.
| Scholarship Type | Award Amount (Annual USD) | Award Amount (Annual INR) | Criteria | Number of Recipients |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholarship | US$35,000 | INR 33.37 Lakhs | GPA 3.8+, SAT 1,350+ (or equivalent) | Limited (top 5%) |
| University Scholarship | US$25,000 | INR 23.80 Lakhs | GPA 3.6-3.8, SAT 1,200-1,349 | Limited (top 10%) |
| Institutional Scholarship | US$16,000 | INR 15.23 Lakhs | GPA 3.4-3.6, demonstrated need | Moderate (top 25%) |
| International Student Grant | US$5,000-10,000 | INR 4.76-9.52 Lakhs | Demonstrated need, unique profile | Variable |
- Scholarships reduce the four-year total cost by US$64,000 to US$140,000, depending on the award level.
- International students are not eligible for federal financial aid (FAFSA), but Loyola funds are available regardless of citizenship.
- Scholarship awards are renewed annually if you maintain a 3.0+ GPA and good academic standing.
For an Indian student awarded the University Scholarship (US$25,000 annually), the four-year cost drops from INR 3.12 Crore to INR 1.94 Crore (approximately INR 1.94 Crore total). This makes Loyola competitive with top Indian private universities for STEM programmes. The Presidential Scholarship brings the total to approximately INR 1.54 Crore, a meaningful reduction that many families can manage through education loans.
Scholarship Reality: Loyola awards scholarships to approximately 15-20% of international applicants. Your chances improve with strong test scores, an engaging personal essay, and demonstrated passion for physics or computer science through prior projects or competitions.
Read More: Scholarships for Indian Students Studying in the USA
Loyola University Chicago Physics and Computer Science Salary and Placements 2026
Graduates of Loyola’s physics and computer science programme enjoy strong employment outcomes, with 90% of graduates employed within six months of graduation. Starting salaries vary by career path chosen.
| Career Path | Entry-Level Gross Salary (USD/year) | Entry-Level Gross Salary (INR/year) | 10-Year Median Salary (USD/year) | 10-Year Median Salary (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer (with CS focus) | US$80,000-95,000 | INR 76.17-90.70 Lakhs | US$140,000-160,000 | INR 1.33-1.53 Crore |
| Data Scientist | US$85,000-100,000 | INR 81.03-95.21 Lakhs | US$145,000-170,000 | INR 1.38-1.62 Crore |
| Physicist / Research Scientist | US$55,000-70,000 | INR 52.40-66.65 Lakhs | US$90,000-120,000 | INR 85.69-1.14 Crore |
| Quantum Computing Engineer (emerging) | US$90,000-110,000 | INR 85.69-1.05 Crore | US$150,000-200,000 | INR 1.43-1.90 Crore |
| Computer Science Focus Average | US$64,073 | INR 61.06 Lakhs | US$135,000 | INR 1.29 Crore |
Source: PayScale, ComputerScience.org, US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2026)
- Entry-level figures are gross income before US federal and state taxes; net take-home ranges from 75-82% depending on state of employment.
- Tech hubs (San Francisco, New York, Seattle) offer 15-30% higher salaries than the US average; Midwest (Chicago, Madison) offers 5-10% below average.
- Quantum computing roles are newly emerging and offer premium salaries due to skill scarcity; most require a master’s degree or specialised experience.
ROI Reality: A graduate earning US$80,000 annually (INR 76.17 Lakhs after 3-year visa work) will recover the four-year investment cost within 4-5 years, far faster than most Indian IT degrees which require higher upfront costs.
Also Check: Career Outcomes and Alumni Network at Loyola University Chicago
United States Visa and Post-Study Work for Physics and Computer Science Graduates
Physics and Computer Science are STEM-designated fields in the USA. Graduates qualify for extended work permits and faster pathways to skilled-worker visas.
- F-1 Student Visa: Valid for duration of studies plus 60-day grace period; no work restrictions on campus, 20 hours per week during academic terms.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): 12-month standard work permit immediately after graduation, plus 24-month STEM extension available for physics and computer science graduates, total 36 months or three years of full-time work.
- H-1B Visa: Skilled-worker visa for permanent employment; computer science roles are in high demand and sponsorship is widely available from major tech employers like Google, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, and Indian firms like TCS, Infosys, Cognizant operating in the USA.
- Green Card and Permanent Residence (PR): Timeline typically 5-10 years via H-1B employment; computer science and physics roles are classified as specialty occupations with shorter processing times.
Visa Reality: Three years of OPT allows you to build expertise, secure H-1B sponsorship, and accumulate savings. Many Indian graduates return to India after OPT with USA-level skills and salaries, founding startups or joining senior roles at Indian tech firms.
Read More: Post-Study Work Visa (OPT) and Skilled Worker Visa (H-1B) in the USA
Loyola University Chicago Physics and Computer Science Ranking 2026
Loyola University Chicago does not hold a subject-level ranking in physics or computer science from major international ranking bodies (QS, THE, ARWU, or US News). However, the university’s overall standing and research contributions merit note.
The institution ranks in the top 15% of US universities for research intensity and is particularly strong in engineering and physical sciences. While a formal subject ranking does not exist for this programme, the university’s STEM designation, research facilities, and 90% graduate employment rate serve as practical indicators of programme strength.
Many employers value Loyola’s reputation more for its teaching excellence and industry connections than for ranking position. Chicago’s proximity to major tech companies and research institutions amplifies graduate opportunities in ways that rankings alone cannot capture.
Honest Take: The absence of a subject ranking should not concern you. What matters to employers is your skills, projects, internship experience, and the reputation of your university. Loyola’s Chicago location, STEM designation, and 90% employment rate are more valuable credentials than a middling subject ranking from a tier-2 institution.
Bachelor of Science Physics and Computer Science FAQs
Ques. What is the difference between a BS in Physics and a BS in Physics and Computer Science at Loyola Chicago?
Ans. The Physics and Computer Science degree replaces 30% of physics electives with computer science courses (algorithms, data structures, software engineering, machine learning). This hybrid path is ideal if you’re uncertain whether to pursue physics research or tech industry roles; you gain flexibility to pivot after graduation. A pure Physics degree requires more theoretical coursework and is better if you plan graduate school in physics or astronomy.
Ques. Does Loyola’s physics and computer science programme offer scholarships specifically for Indian students?
Ans. No, Loyola does not award need-based or country-specific scholarships. However, all international students compete for merit scholarships based on academics and test scores; approximately 15-20% of international applicants receive awards. If you have a strong GPA (3.7+) and SAT (1,350+), your chances of a US$20,000+ annual scholarship are solid. Contact the international admissions office to explore external Indian scholarship schemes that Loyola accepts.
Ques. Can I work on campus during my studies, and will that offset living costs?
Ans. Yes, F-1 student visa allows up to 20 hours per week on-campus employment during the academic year and full-time during official breaks (summer, winter). On-campus jobs at Loyola pay USD 15-18 per hour, yielding approximately USD 12,000-14,400 annually if you work 15-20 hours weekly. This covers 25-30% of living costs and is realistic given the coursework demand in physics and computer science programmes.
Ques. What happens if I score below the TOEFL 79 minimum, and can I retake the exam?
Ans. A score below 79 is not automatically rejected, but admission becomes unlikely. You may retake TOEFL after 12 days; many Indian applicants improve 5-10 points on a second attempt if they focus on speaking and writing. Consider IELTS if TOEFL listening is your weak area. If you cannot reach 79, Loyola may offer conditional admission (pathway programme) with intensive English coursework before starting regular degree courses.
Ques. After graduation, can I stay and work in the USA with an OPT visa, or is it certain I must return to India?
Ans. OPT is optional; you choose to use it or not. Three years of OPT allow full-time employment in the USA with major tech firms, startups, or Indian tech consulting companies. Many graduates use this time to build expertise and savings before either filing for H-1B permanent employment or returning to India with three years of international experience. Both paths are viable; your decision depends on career goals and family circumstances.
The Bachelor of Science in Physics and Computer Science at Loyola University Chicago offers Indian students a balanced pathway into either academic research or lucrative tech industry roles. The programme’s strength lies in its flexibility—you can emphasise pure physics, move into software engineering, or explore emerging quantum computing fields. With 90% employment and STEM OPT extension, you gain three years to solidify your career in the USA or return home with advanced skills and credentials. The investment of INR 3.12 Crore (or INR 1.94 Crore with scholarship) is offset by strong starting salaries (INR 61-76 Lakhs) and decade-long earnings trajectories exceeding INR 1.2+ Crore. Apply by the December 1 priority deadline to maximise your scholarship chances.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $50270 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Compulsory Fees | $1436 |
| Total Cost | $1436 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $42720 |
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Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Options Available
| Program | Delivery Type | Duration | Program Type | Tuition Fees |
| B.S Physics Applied Science Track | full time | 4 years | on-campus | $51706 |
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BeArt Presets-Academic Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,500/Yr$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| The Google Lime Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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