The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is a prestigious public research university known for its strong academic programs and innovative research. Founded in 1867, it is a globally recognized leader in research, education, and community involvement. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library is one of the largest public university collections in the world, with 15 million volumes in its 20+ unit libraries. With 56,000+ Students from all 50 states and 100+ countries, the university offers over 150 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs across diverse fields.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the original 37 public land-grant institutions created after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Morrill Act in 1862. In the 2024-25 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Illinois is ranked as the 9th best public university and the 33rd best national university in the U.S.
University Summary
Location: Urbana and Champaign, Illinois, USA.
Ranking:
- QS World Ranking 2025: #69
- THE World Ranking 2024: #46
- U.S. News & World Report 2024: #13 among U.S. public universities.
Available Programs: Engineering, Business, Liberal Arts, Sciences, Health, Law, and more.
Program Duration:
- Undergraduate: 4 years
- Graduate: 2-3 years
- PhD: 4-6 years
Application Time:
- Undergraduate: September to January (for fall intake)
- Graduate: Varies by department, typically December–January.
Study Areas at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines. Some key areas of study include:
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
- Engineering
- Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Computer Science, Aerospace, and more.
- Business
- Finance, Marketing, Accounting, Management, and Business Analytics.
- Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Psychology, Economics, Mathematics, Political Science, and Sociology.
- Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences
- Crop Sciences, Animal Sciences, and Food Science.
- Education
- Curriculum and Instruction, Special Education, and Educational Psychology.
- Media and Communication
- Journalism, Advertising, and Media Studies.
- Fine and Applied Arts
- Architecture, Design, Music, and Theatre.
- Health Sciences
- Kinesiology, Public Health, and Biomedical Sciences.
- Law and Policy
- Law, Public Administration, and International Relations.
Interdisciplinary Programs
- Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Studies, and Sustainability.
- For UNDERGRADUATE Programs: Visit
- For GRADUATE Programs: Visit
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Programs:
- High School Graduation
English Proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT
- 80 (subscores be 20 or higher)
- The College of Education, College of Media, Gies College of Business, Grainger College of Engineering, and School of Social Work require: 100 iBT
- IELTS
- A minimum total of 6.5 (subscores of 6.0)
- The College of Education, College of Media, Gies College of Business, Grainger College of Engineering, and School of Social Work require: A minimum total score of 7.5 with minimum subscores of 7.0.
- Duolingo English Test: A minimum overall score of 120 (minimum scores of 115 on all subscores)
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT scores (optional but recommended for some programs).
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Graduate Programs:
- Applicants must have earned at least a bachelor’s degree
- GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 (out of 4.0) in the last two years of undergraduate study is required for admission. Additional semesters may be considered for GPA calculation if your undergraduate program is longer than 4 years.
English Proficiency:
| Accepted Tests | Limited Status Admission Minimum | Full Status Admission Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT TOEFL iBT Home Edition | 79 | 103 |
| IELTS Academic Exam | 6.5 | 7.5 |
| Duolingo | 115 | 135 |
Required Documents to Apply at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Application Fee
- Domestic applicants are required to submit a $70.00 application fee.
- International applicants are required to submit a $90.00 application fee.
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts
- English proficiency test scores
- Standardized test scores (if required)
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation (2-3)
- Resume or CV (for graduate programs)
- Portfolio (for specific art or design programs)
Tuition Fees for International Students
Undergraduate Programs
International
- Tuition & Fees:$37,708-$47,796
- Food & Housing:$14,522
- Books & Supplies:$1,200
- Other Expenses:$2,840
- Total: $56,270-$66,358
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Graduate Programs
- New & Continuing Students: $26,494–$$50,184 per year.
- Professional Students: $29,704–$56,180 per year.
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Living Expenses
The estimated cost of living for international students is approximately $15,000–$18,000 per year, which includes:
- Housing: $7,000–$9,000 annually (on-campus or off-campus).
- Food: $3,000–$4,000 annually.
- Transportation: $500–$1,000 annually.
- Personal Expenses: $2,000–$3,000 annually.
- Health Insurance: $1,200–$1,500 annually.
Total Estimated Cost per Year (Tuition + Living Expenses)
- Undergraduate Students: $49,000–$63,000.
- Graduate Students: $40,000–$53,000.
These costs can vary based on the program, lifestyle, and housing choices.
Why Choose University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign?
UIUC is celebrated for its cutting-edge research, vibrant campus life, and strong alumni network. Its engineering, business, and computer science programs are particularly prestigious. The university offers diverse cultural experiences and ample career opportunities, making it a top choice for international students.
Suggestions for International Applicants
- Start your application early and ensure all documents are submitted before the deadline.
- Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of your program.
- Take advantage of the university’s virtual tours and webinars to understand campus life better.
- Reach out to current students or alumni for insights.
Available Scholarships for International Students
- Illinois Commitment Program (need-based)
- Merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students
- Departmental scholarships (varies by program)
- External scholarships for international students
FAQs About UIUC
Q1: What is the application deadline for international students?
Most undergraduate programs have a deadline in early January, while graduate program deadlines vary by department.
Q2: Does UIUC offer on-campus housing for international students?
Yes, a variety of on-campus housing options are available, including residence halls and apartments.
Q3: Can I work while studying at UIUC?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during semesters.
Q4: Is there an orientation program for international students?
Yes, UIUC offers a comprehensive orientation to help international students settle in.
Q5: How diverse is the student population?
UIUC hosts students from over 100 countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment