University of Illinois: Ranking, Courses, Fees, Admissions 2025
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About
The University of Illinois system is a prestigious public university system in the United States, renowned for its academic excellence and research. It comprises three main campuses: Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield. UIUC, the flagship campus, is particularly recognized for its engineering, business, and computer science programs. The system offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs, attracting students worldwide.
University of Illinois Highlights
| Established in |
1867 |
| Type of institution |
Four year, public research university |
| Number of campuses |
03 - Chicago, Springfield & Urbana-Champaign |
| Total courses offered |
1,000+ |
| Number of enrillments annually |
94,700 |
| International student percentage |
35% |
| Average Tuition Fee |
Varies with each university |
| Average scholarship offered |
USD 20,000 |
| Alumni base |
849,000 |
History of University of Illinois System
The history of the University of Illinois reflects a long evolution from its beginnings as the Illinois Industrial University in 1867 under John Milton Gregory to its modern status as a prominent educational institution. Gregory’s focus on industrial education and liberal arts faced opposition, and his tenure ended in 1880. Financial struggles in the 1880s led to the university's name change in 1885 to the University of Illinois. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw rapid growth under leaders like Andrew S. Draper and Edmund J. James, expanding faculty, facilities, and academic offerings. The university continued to grow despite challenges, including financial hardships during the Great Depression and ideological conflicts in the post-WWII period. Significant reforms in the 1960s, including the establishment of new campuses and the rise of federal research support, marked the university's transition to a "multiversity." By 1970, the university had become a highly selective institution, reflecting both internal and external influences on its development.
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University of Illinois Campuses
There are three major campuses of the University of Illinois and they are as follows:
- University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
- University of Illinois Springfield
- University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (UIUC)
Apart from these three major campuses of the University of Illinois, there is also a regional campus of the University of Illinois located in Rockford, Peoria and Quad Cities. Each of them has a certain set of colleges located in these cities.
University of Illinois Rankings 2025
Based on QS - World University Rankings for the year 2025 and Shiksha Grading, universities falling under the University of Illinois system have been ranked in the following order:
| University of Illinois System Universities |
Shiksha Grading |
QS - WUR 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| A+ |
#69 |
|
| A |
#365 |
Only two universities of the University of Illinois system have been ranked by QS for 2025. Applicants looking at admissions based on rankings, must check recent rankings and then apply for admissions.
Top Courses Offered at University of Illinois
All three universities falling under the University of Illinois together offer around 1,000+ courses. Courses are offered across all areas of study like Management, Arts, Humanities, Medicine, Law and other areas. Applicants check out university-wise popular courses in the section below.
Top Courses at University of Illinois Campuses
All three universities under the University of Illinois have a popular set of courses, we have added them in the table for reference:
| University of Illinois System Universities |
Enrollment Year |
Popular Courses Offered |
|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign |
1867 |
BS in Computer Science, BS in Aerospace Engineering, BBA, MBA, MS in Business Analytics, and others. |
| University of Illinois Springfield |
1969 |
LLB, BA in Social Work, BS in Computer Science, MS in HRM, MBA, and others. |
| University of Illinois Chicago |
1982 |
BBA, BArch, BDes, MS in Computer Science, MS in Electrical Engineering, MS in Analytics and others. |
These are a handful of popular courses offered at each of the universities under the University of Illinois. Applicants can check out more options by visiting the official websites for shortlisting.
University of Illinois Admissions 2025
To understand admissions, let us look at some admissions stats and about University of Illinois acceptance rates in the sections below.
University of Illinois Admission Stats
The number of enrollments across the University of Illinois is important for international students to assess if they stand a chance for admission. Here are the recent Fall intake admission enrollment numbers for 2024:
- University of Illinois Chicago enrollments: 4,198
- University of Illinois Springfield enrollments: 34,000
- UIUC enrollments: 56,563
As given above, UIUC ranks among the top 100 universities globally and also enrols a higher number of applicants, followed by the University of Illinois Chicago. The lowest enrollments are recorded for the University of Illinois Springfield for 2024.
University of Illinois Acceptance Rate
After checking the enrollment numbers, it is also essential to understand the acceptance rate at the University of Illinois which is as follows:
| University of Illinois System Universities |
Acceptance Rates (Class of 2027) |
|---|---|
| 82% |
|
| 79% |
|
| 45% |
As mentioned above, the University of Illinois Springfield records the highest acceptance rate followed by UIC and UIUC. UIC and the University of Illinois Springfield are also USA’s highest acceptance rate universities.
How to Apply at University of Illinois?
To apply to the University of Illinois, follow these steps:
- Start by creating an account on the University of Illinois application portal (MyIllini) or use the Common Application.
- Fill out the application form, including personal information, educational history, and extracurricular activities. You’ll also need to write personal essays (for some programs).
- Send your official high school transcripts or college transcripts if applicable.
- Submit SAT or ACT scores if required (check for specific program requirements). The University of Illinois has a test-optional policy for some programs.
- Submit GRE or GMAT for postgraduate admissions.
- There’s an application fee, typically around $75, unless you qualify for a fee waiver.
- Submit a Portfolio or Audition (if applicable). Some programs (e.g., art, music, or theatre) may require additional materials such as a portfolio or an audition.
- After submission, track the status of your application through the MyIllini portal. You may be asked to submit additional documents or information.
Once your application is complete, the university will review it and notify you of your admission decision. Make sure to check specific program requirements, deadlines, and documents needed, as these can vary by department.
Documents Required for Admissions at University of Illinois
The list of documents required for all three universities of the University of Illinois system may vary. Some accepted documents are common across all three campuses, and they include:
- Transcripts
- Admission essays
- Updated resume
- SOPs
- LORs
- SAT or ACT scores
- GRE or GMAT scores
- IELTS or TOEFL scores for English language proficiency
Apart from these, for UIC admissions, portfolios may be required. For UIUC admissions, certain high school course completion will be required. Finally, for University of Illinois Springfield admissions, additional documents may be required.
University of Illinois Admission Deadlines 2025
There are two major intakes in USA and the University of Illinois also follows a similar intake pattern for admissions. The deadlines for admission to the University of Illinois are as follows:
| Deadline Type at University of Illinois |
Dates |
Description |
|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline (Fall) |
November 1 |
Regular decision for Fall semester freshmen. |
| Priority Application Deadline |
November 1 |
For scholarship consideration and priority processing. |
| Early Action Deadline |
November 1 |
Early Action applicants can expect earlier decisions. |
| Application Deadline (Spring) |
September 1 |
For Spring semester freshmen. |
| Document Submission Deadline |
November 1 |
Last day to submit required documents for Fall. |
| Financial Aid Deadline |
December 1 |
FAFSA and other financial aid applications are due. |
| Decision Notification (Fall) |
Mid-December |
Regular decision applicants receive decisions. |
| Acceptance Response Deadline |
May 1 |
Deadline for accepted students to commit to enrol. |
| Housing Application Deadline |
May 1 |
Priority deadline for housing application. |
Applicants are still advised to check the official website before applying at any of the University of Illinois. Application deadlines for the Fall intake and Spring intake are given above and may change without prior notice.
University of Illinois Fees 2025
International applicants must note, that the fee for studying at any of the universities of the University of Illinois varies with its campus. So, the cost of studying at the University of Illinois is as follows:
- UIC Fees:
- UG: INR 22.52 L - 49.83 L
- PG: INR 13.9 L - 37.92
- UIUC Fees:
- UG: INR 28.28 L - 36.12 L
- PG: INR 14.89 L - 45.51
- University of Illinois Springfield Fees:
- UG: INR 16.36 L - 18.55 L
- PG: INR 9.84 L - 20.99 L
The University of Illinois, with its rich history and diverse campuses, offers a comprehensive range of academic programs and research opportunities. Whether interested in engineering, business, the arts, or sciences, you'll find a suitable program at one of its three main campuses: Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, or Springfield. While the acceptance rates vary across campuses, the university's commitment to academic excellence and student success remains unwavering. Before applying, check the latest rankings, admission requirements, and financial aid options on the official University of Illinois website.
Need more clarity and assistance in choosing the right university from the University of Illinois Illinois system? Sign up for our free Shiksha Abroad Counselling and request a callback from our team of expert counsellors.
University of Illinois FAQs
Q. Is University of Illinois a top university?
A. Yes, the University of Illinois is considered a top university, especially known for its strong programs in engineering, business, computer science, and agriculture. It consistently ranks among the best public universities in the U.S. Its faculty, research initiatives, and high academic standards contribute to its reputation as a leading institution in higher education.
Q. Is University of Illinois Tier 1?
A. Yes, the University of Illinois is classified as a Tier 1 research university. This designation reflects its high level of research activity, extensive funding, and strong academic offerings. It is recognized for producing groundbreaking research, particularly in engineering, science, and technology.
Q. What GPA do you need for University of Illinois?
A. A. For admission to the University of Illinois, a competitive GPA typically falls in the range of 3.7-4.0 for most programs. However, specific GPA requirements may vary by college or department. Highly competitive programs, like those in engineering or business, may require higher GPAs and additional factors such as standardized test scores or extracurricular achievements.
Q. Is University of Illinois expensive?
A. The University of Illinois can be expensive, with and out-of-state tuition around USD 34,000 per year. These costs do not include room, board, or other fees. However, the university offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, to help offset the cost for eligible students.
Q: What is the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign ranking?
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is globally renowned university and attracts bright minds from all over the globe. Listed below are the global UIUC rankings:
- #64 in World University Rankings 2024 - QS World University Rankings
- #35 in Best National Universities in US 2024 - US News & World Report Rankings
- #12 in Top Public Schools 2024 - US News & World Report Rankings
- #150 in Best Value Schools 2024 - US News & World Report Rankings
- #42 in World University Rankings 2023 - Times Higher Education (THE)
- #45 in US College Rankings 2022 – Times Higher Education (THE)
- #30 in World Reputation Rankings 2022 – Times Higher Education (THE)
Q: Is MIT costly for Indians?
MIT is not costly for Indian students. Applicants can study BTech program at affordable tuition fees as compared to other BTech colleges in the USA. The MIT BTech fees is around INR 50 L to INR 52 L.
Q: How long does it take to get admission to Iowa State?
After submitting the application the Iowa State admission committee will review the application for admission on the basis of documents that applicants provide. A decision may require several weeks as it depends on the time of year the applicant submits the application (Applications submitted right before the deadline require a much longer processing time due to the volume of applications received then.). Applicants will receive an admission offer letter and the I-20 Form if admitted.
Q: What GPA is needed to go to Ohio State?
There is no minimum GPA score for UG admission at Ohio State. However, International students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for graduate admission. Applicants may submit a standardized test score (GRE or GMAT) if their cumulative GPA is below 3.0 for the last degree.
Q: Is Texas A&M Commerce a good university?
Texas A&M Commerce is regarded as one of the top public universities across the United States. Moreover, the Texas A&M Commerce ranking 2024 under the category of Best Colleges is National Universities is #369. Also, the acceptance rate of this university is 42%. Additionally, the university offers the best academic programs, expert faculty, job & placement, and more. Besides, Texas A&M University-Commerce also offers over 130 academic degrees for its students.
Q: What GPA is required for the University of South Dakota?
The University of South Dakota expects a GPA score of 2.5 from undergraduates and 3 from postgraduates on the 4-pointer scale. Along with the GPA scores, undergraduates must meet the basic eligibility and submit an ACT score of 21 or higher and an SAT score of 1070 or higher. In addition, they must submit the required documents, such as academic history, transcripts, letters of recommendation, English language scores, and more.
Q: Is the University of South Dakota hard to get into?
With a 99% acceptance rate, the University of South Dakota is easy to get into. The university follows an easy approach during admission. The university takes a simple admissions procedure. The high acceptance percentage does not mean that the university admits every applicant; rather, it suggests permissive admittance as compared to another university.
Students must prove themselves by scoring excellent academic scores, English proficiency requirements, and standardized test scores. Also, the university prioritizes factors, such as rigor of secondary school record, class rank, academic GPA, standardized test scores, application essays, recommendations, and more.
Q: What GPA do you need to get into Iowa State?
International students who wish to study at Iowa State must have at least GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 for UG and PG admission. International transfer applicants must have a minimum equivalent GPA of C+ on a scale of A to F or 2.25 on a 4.0 scale for all transferable courses.
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