Taylor Business Institute

The student body is lean on traditional campus culture—no dorms, Greek life, or sports teams. Instead, TBI caters to commuters and international students (who receive dedicated support services). Social media shows students collaborating on English language skills and vocational projects, suggesting a workmanlike, career-focused environment. However, data indicates a 100% decline in racial diversity over five years, though specifics aren't provided. The institute hosts open houses and seminars to engage prospective students, but campus life appears minimal compared to traditional colleges.

Graduation rates are low even by community college standards: just 24% of students graduate within six years (below the 35% national midpoint for two-year schools). However, those who do finish report median earnings of $36,427 one year post-graduation—comparable to many public community colleges. The gap between graduation rates and post-grad earnings suggests TBI's programs deliver marketable skills for completers, but many students struggle to persist. Retention data isn't publicly detailed, but the six-year graduation rate implies significant attrition.

TBI markets itself as affordable, with a net priceNet priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. of $9,965/year after aid for typical freshmen. The sticker price before aid is $14,735, with average aid packages of $8,413 (mostly federal Pell Grants). A net price calculator helps estimate costs, though the institute doesn't participate in the Common Data SetCommon Data Set (CDS)A standardized report most colleges publish each year with admissions, test-score, and financial-aid figures, making schools easier to compare. to benchmark aid transparency. For context, the annual cost is higher than the national midpoint for two-year colleges ($9,666), but lower than many for-profit career schools.

Taylor Business Institute fills a niche for non-traditional students who need flexible, vocational training in Chicago—particularly international students and working adults. Its open admissions and small classes provide access, but the 24% graduation rate raises questions about support systems. The institute's singular focus is clear: no frills, just pragmatic career prep in fields like accounting and electronics repair. For students who persist, outcomes are decent; for others, it's a reminder that accessibility alone doesn't guarantee success.