University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is the main campus of the University of Illinois system, home to over 35,000 undergraduate students. Known for its prestigious academic programs and innovative research, it is a hub for technological advancements and sustainability. 

Here are some key features of the Urbana-Champaign campus:

1. Main Quad
   • One of the most significant structures on campus, it is home to historical buildings such as Altgeld Hall and the iconic Illinois State Geological Survey building.
   • Features the university’s most prestigious colleges, including engineering, business, and humanities.
2. Beckman Institute for Advanced Science & Technology
   • A multidisciplinary research hub dedicated to advancing research in areas like neuroscience, biophysics, and computer science.
   • Encourages collaboration between students, researchers, and industry professionals.
3. University of Illinois Research Park
   • Home to over 100 high-tech companies, providing students with valuable internships and job opportunities.
   • Promotes innovation and entrepreneurship by connecting students with industry leaders in the tech sector.
4. Sustainability Initiatives
   • Notable initiatives include LEED-certified buildings and the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center, which focuses on environmental solutions and green technologies.
5. Champaign-Urbana Campus Green Spaces
   • Aiming to enhance student wellness, this campus features acres of green spaces and recreational facilities.
   • It boasts modern athletic facilities for fitness, leisure, and competitive sports.

Note: In addition to the Urbana-Champaign campus, the University of Illinois system also has campuses in Chicago and Springfield.

Next, let's explore the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign rankings and why it is a top choice for students worldwide.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign consistently ranks among the best public universities globally, with strong positions in all major international rankings.

In 2026, UIUC is ranked #70 in the QS World University Rankings. Furthermore, it has secured the #46 position in the latest Times Higher Education (THE) rankings.

Below is a table summarizing UIUC’s rankings across major global ranking bodies:

Its global ranking remained consistent, with only slight variations across different ranking organizations, showcasing its continued academic excellence and research influence.

Additionally, it is equally important to examine how the university performs in international subject rankings.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2025

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign shines in the latest subject-wise rankings. With impressive rankings in areas such as Library and Information Management (#6), Engineering (#25), and Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (#21), UIUC’s programs continue to reflect its focus on excellence and innovation. 

These rankings highlight the university’s leadership in key fields, highlighting its reputation for producing highly skilled graduates.

Here’s a breakdown of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's subject-specific rankings for 2025:

Having explored the global and subject-specific rankings, let's now check out the admission process and deadlines at UIUC.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) has a pretty competitive admissions process, with an overall acceptance rate of 44%. Admission is based on academic performance, standardized test scores (if submitted), and extracurricular activities. 

International students are encouraged to submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores to demonstrate language proficiency levels in English.

Let’s understand the core admission requirements for UIUC:

Admission Requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong academic records, with the middle 50% of admitted students holding GPAs between 3.65 and 4.00. UIUC is test-optional, but submitting ACT or SAT scores can enhance your application. 

International transfer students must demonstrate English proficiency, with a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.5, and specific programs may have higher requirements.

Now, let’s look at the precise academic qualification expectations.

Academic Qualification

The application process requires submitting official transcripts, a personal statement, and an application fee, which ranges from $75 (INR 6.4K) for undergraduate programs to $90 (INR 7.7K) for graduate programs.

Below is the table with the most essential academic requirements to study in the USA at UIUC for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions:

Language Proficiency

As an international student applying to UIUC, you must demonstrate your proficiency in the English language through standardized tests. The most common tests are TOEFL and IELTS, with scores of 103 (TOEFL) or an IELTS band score of 7.5 considered competitive for most programs.

However, if your total TOEFL iBT score is 102 or below, or your IELTS score is 7.0 or below, you need to take the UIUC’s English Placement Test (EPT).

Here’s a summary of the accepted language proficiency tests and their scores:

Competitive Exams

UIUC follows an optional test policy, meaning standardized test scores, such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, and MCAT, are not mandatory for most programs. However, they can add significant value to your application if mentioned. 

For admitted undergraduates who submitted scores, the middle 50% scored between 1380 and 1530 on the SAT and between 30 and 34 on the ACT. 

Here’s the detailed competitive exam scenario at UIUC: 

Visa Requirements 

If you’re accepted to UIUC, you must secure either an F-1 or J-1 visa. For that, the university will issue the necessary I-20 (for F-1) or DS-2019 (for J-1) form after confirming your financial ability to cover all expenses. This includes tuition, living costs, and other expenses for the duration of your course. 

Below is a quick summary of the USA study visa requirements for Indian students and their details:

Apart from the requirements, you also need to remain up-to-date with the application deadlines, as UIUC offers multiple intakes. Let’s explore them.

Application Deadline and Intakes

For UIUC’s UG courses, the Fall Early Decision deadline for fresh applicants was November 1, 2024 (closed), and the Regular Decision deadline was January 5, 2025 (closed). You can expect similar deadlines for the upcoming intake sessions. 

Graduate programs vary by department, so be sure to check individual program pages for exact dates.

Here’s a table with key admissions deadlines:

After getting a fair idea about the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Admission process, let’s explore its wide range of programs.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a broad array of over 150 undergraduate and more than 100 graduate and professional programs across 15+ academic units, including The Grainger College of Engineering, Carle Illinois College of Medicine, and others. 

UIUC provides specialized options in fields such as engineering, computer science, business, liberal arts, and health sciences. This extensive range of programs ensures students can find a path that matches their career aspirations.

Here’s a look at some of the top courses available at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign:

• Master of Science in Computer Science: Ranked #5 nationally, this program offers concentrations in AI, data science, and cybersecurity. UIUC’s proximity to major tech hubs ensures strong industry ties.
• Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS): Offered by the iSchool at UIUC, the program is top-ranked and highly regarded in areas like digital curation, public librarianship, and archives management.
• Juris Doctor (JD): UIUC’s JD program is one of the oldest in the U.S., known for its specialization options in intellectual property, international law, and more.
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE): Ranked #5 overall in the U.S. News & Rankings among the top engineering programs in the U.S., it offers specializations in aerospace, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. 
• BS in Accountancy: Ranked #2 nationally, UIUC’s BS in Accountancy provides a curriculum in financial reporting, auditing, and taxation to prepare for careers in public accounting and corporate finance.

Now that you have an idea of the top courses at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, it’s essential to understand the financial aspects as well.

Program Fees at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a wide range of graduate and undergraduate programs with different tuition rates. 

Master's programs, such as the Master’s in Public Health ($32,266 or INR 27.6L) and the MS in Business Analytics ($51,188 or INR 43.8L), provide specialized education in high-demand fields. For those pursuing a healthcare career, the Doctor of Medicine program costs $47,396 (INR 40.6L). 

Below is a summary of some courses along with their annual tuition fees:

Notes:

• Tuition fees differ by program. Please refer to the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date fee details.
• The fees listed in INR are approximate and may change often due to exchange rate fluctuations.

Next, let’s explore the total cost of studying at UIUC.

The average cost of studying in the USA at UIUC ranges approximately between $25K and $60K (INR 21.4L - 51.4L) per year. Apart from tuition fees, living expenses in Illinois can quickly add up. Students should budget approximately $26K (INR 22.3L) annually for accommodation, food, and other living expenses.

Although these costs vary based on lifestyle and housing choices, the university provides precise estimates to help you plan.

Here is the cost of living in the USA at UIUC.

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

While these expenses may look intimidating, you have several scholarship options at your disposal. These tools help you manage your finances more effectively.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) offers over 1,500 scholarships annually based on a variety of factors, including academic achievement, talent, leadership, geographical location, field of study, and financial need.

The Graduate College awards more than $3 million annually in competitive fellowships. Graduate students can access funding through grants, fellowships, assistantships, and tuition waivers.

Let’s take a detailed look at some of the scholarship options.

Internal Scholarships

International students can explore scholarships and awards administered by Illinois International, such as the Jean M. Due and Marianne Ferber International Research Award, which provides financial support for dissertation research on gender and development issues.

Below is a list of some internal scholarships to study in the USA:

Beyond internal scholarships, you can also take advantage of financial aid opportunities provided by government programs and various trusts.

External Scholarships

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign accepts several prestigious external fully funded scholarships to help ease the financial burden of education. For example, scholarships like the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship provide up to $100,000 (INR 85.6L) for Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies.

Below are some of the notable external scholarship options: 

Next, let's examine the university's placement scenario in more detail.

Getting a job after graduation is a significant concern for most students, especially given the high cost of education. However, at UIUC, you’re covered. According to an Illini Success report, 90% of the graduation cohort secured a first destination, with 50% starting a job, and 40% enrolling in higher education.

Furthermore, for full-time entry-level hires, the average private sector salary was $90,000 (INR 77L), with a range of $66,000 to $100,000 (INR 56.5L to 85.6L).

Below are the details on internship and co-op program opportunities provided to students at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: 

• Experiential Learning at UIUC: 91% of UIUC graduates participated in experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, study abroad programs, and service learning. Among these, 42% received job offers directly.
• Handshake Platform: UIUC students have access to Handshake, a job and internship platform that connects them with a wide range of employers and opportunities.
• Research Park Internships: Over 2,100 employees, including more than 800 student interns, work at over 120 companies within UIUC's Research Park. Notable employers include Capital One, Caterpillar, and State Farm.
• State Farm Research & Development Center: Located within the Research Park, this center employs up to 70 interns across various disciplines, including Actuarial Science, Computer Science, and Business Administration.
• IMSI Summer Internship Program: Hosted by UIUC, this program allows Ph.D. students in mathematics or statistics to participate in an 8-week summer internship and a 2-week skills workshop in computation and data science.
• Engineering Career Services (ECS): ECS offers internships and co-op support, including guidance on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students, along with courses like ENG 310 and ENG 451 to complement work experiences.
• Department-Specific Opportunities: Departments such as Statistics offer over 40 internships annually, collaborating with students to secure positions that align with their academic and career goals.

Now, you’ll come across some of the top recruiters who hire graduates from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Top Recruiters Hiring at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Graduates from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) are recruited by top employers across various sectors, including technology, consulting, finance, healthcare, and engineering, frequently securing competitive jobs in the USA and internationally. 

The university’s strong industry partnerships and career services ensure students land the highest-paying jobs, with average annual salaries ranging from $70,000 (INR 60L) to $130,000 (INR 1.1Cr) depending on the field and degree level.

Here’s a look at some of the top recruiters and the job roles they usually recruit for.

• Amazon: Recruits Data Scientists and Software Engineers to work on advanced analytics and machine learning projects.
• Boeing: Hires Aerospace Engineers in design, manufacturing, and innovation.
• Caterpillar: Employs Engineers and Analysts for product development and automotive systems.
• Deloitte: Offers Consulting roles, focusing on strategy, operations, and technology solutions.
• Google: Hires Software Engineers for Cloud Computing Architecture, AI, and Product Platforms Roles.
• John Deere: Employs Engineers in agricultural technology and equipment design.
• JPMorgan Chase & Co.: Hires Financial Analysts and Technology Consultants for roles in asset management and fintech.
• Meta: Offers roles in software engineering and data analysis.
• Microsoft: Offers Product Managers and Software Engineers, especially for roles in cloud and AI development.
• PepsiCo: Hires professionals in supply chain, marketing, and finance roles.
• PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers): Recruits professionals for roles in audit, consulting, and tax services.

Beyond career outcomes, UIUC offers an enriching campus life with a variety of student organizations, sports, and cultural events. Let’s now explore that. 

Living and studying at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) offers a supportive environment, particularly for international students adjusting to a new culture.

The university combines the charm of a college town with the energy of a major research institution. The campus is home to over 50,000 students, including more than 10,000 international students, making it a diverse and global community.

Here are the key elements that drive student life at the university:

• Diverse Student Clubs: UIUC boasts over 1,600 registered student organizations (RSOs), catering to a wide range of interests including academics, culture, service, and recreation.
• Cultural & Identity Groups: The university supports numerous cultural and identity-based organizations, such as the Iranian Heritage Foundation and the Egyptian Student Association, encouraging a sense of community and belonging. 
• Leadership and Service Opportunities: Students can engage in leadership development and community service through organizations such as Alpha Phi Omega and the Illini Fighting Hunger initiative. 
• Varsity Sports: UIUC is home to 19 men's and women's varsity teams competing in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. 
• Intramural & Club Sports: With over 25 club sports and numerous intramural leagues, students can participate in a variety of recreational activities.
• McKinley Health Center: Provides comprehensive medical services, including primary care, mental support, and wellness programs.
• International Student Support: UIUC hosts students from over 100 countries, offering resources through the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) to assist with cultural adjustment and immigration matters.
• Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: The Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations (OIIR) promotes diversity through programs, workshops, and support services designed to support an inclusive campus environment. 
• Accessibility: Located centrally in Illinois, UIUC offers easy access to major cities such as Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis, thereby enhancing opportunities for internships and travel. 

In addition to its lively student life, the achievements of its alumni significantly contribute to shaping UIUC’s campus culture. Let’s take a look at some notable alumni.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has produced remarkable alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields. 

From Hugh Hefner, the founder of Playboy magazine, who shaped modern men's lifestyle media, to Marc Andreessen, co-creator of the Mosaic web browser and a prominent venture capitalist, UIUC alumni have left their mark globally. 

Here are some of the most distinguished university alumni, showcasing their fields of work and significant contributions:

These individuals represent the diverse fields and impactful contributions of UIUC alumni, reflecting the university's broad academic and professional influence.

Finally, let's compare UIUC with other universities in the region, such as Eastern Illinois University and Illinois Wesleyan University.

Selecting the right university involves considering academic quality, financial cost, and campus experience. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, ranked #33 among National Universities, offers a strong education with over 250 courses and a competitive acceptance rate of 44%. 

Eastern Illinois University, on the other hand, is unranked on the same list. It offers fewer courses and a higher acceptance rate of 68% but provides more in terms of affordability.

Lastly, Illinois Wesleyan University, ranked #14 among National Liberal Arts Colleges, has a small, focused student body and a competitive acceptance rate of 17%.

Here’s a quick comparison of these universities:

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.