The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), established in 1867, is a prestigious public research university located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign, Illinois. Renowned for its comprehensive academic programs and commitment to innovation, UIUC offers students a dynamic learning environment.
If you’re considering applying to UIUC, crafting a compelling application is crucial. Our statement of purpose editing services and college application essay editing can help refine your essays to effectively showcase your strengths. UIUC is also featured in our Top 100 US Universities for 2025, providing insights into its standing among leading institutions.
Academic Programs
UIUC offers over 150 undergraduate and more than 100 graduate programs across 16 schools and colleges, including:Wikipedia+1admissions.illinois.edu+1
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences: Offers a wide range of majors in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
- Grainger College of Engineering: Known for its top-ranked engineering programs.
- Gies College of Business: Provides programs in accountancy, finance, marketing, and management.
- College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences: Focuses on programs related to agriculture, environmental sustainability, and human development.
- College of Education: Prepares students for careers in teaching, educational policy, and administration.
The university emphasizes interdisciplinary study and research, allowing students to tailor their educational experiences to their interests and career goals.
Admissions Overview
Admission to UIUC is competitive. For the Fall 2024 cohort, the overall acceptance rate was approximately 42.4%, with a first-choice major acceptance rate of 34.2%. Successful applicants typically have strong academic records, with a high school GPA range of 3.65 to 4.00. admissions.illinois.edu
Academic Environment
UIUC maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, fostering an environment where students can engage with faculty members and participate in research opportunities. The university operates on a semester system, allowing students to explore a variety of courses throughout the academic year. With a strong emphasis on research, UIUC provides numerous opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in cutting-edge projects across various fields.
UIUC Admissions Statistics (Fall 2024)
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 42.4% |
| First-Choice Major Acceptance Rate | 34.2% |
| Middle 50% GPA Range | 3.65–4.00 |
| Middle 50% SAT Score Range | 1380–1530 |
| Middle 50% ACT Score Range | 30–34 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 18:1 |
Sources:
Admissions data: UIUC Admit Rates
Testing and GPA data: UIUC First-Year Class Profile
General information: UIUC Facts & Rankings
Student Life at UIUC
UIUC offers a vibrant campus life with over 1,000 student clubs and organizations, including cultural clubs, service organizations, and academic societies. The campus is located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign, providing students with a blend of urban and suburban experiences. The university has a strong athletic presence, with the Fighting Illini competing in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. Students actively support Illini athletics, fostering a strong sense of school spirit and community.
What’s Good
- Research Opportunities: “UIUC provides ample opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in meaningful research across various disciplines.”
- Diverse Campus: “The student body is diverse, creating a rich cultural and intellectual environment.”
- Campus Resources: “The university offers extensive resources, including libraries, research facilities, and cultural centers, to support student success.”
What’s Not-So-Great
- Large Class Sizes: “Some introductory courses can be quite large, making it challenging to connect with professors.”
- Weather: “Winters in Illinois can be harsh, which may be a consideration for students from warmer climates.”
- Housing: “Securing on-campus housing can be competitive, and off-campus options may require careful planning.”
Admissions Requirements at UIUC
UIUC employs a comprehensive review process, considering various factors:
- Academic Performance: Emphasis on high school GPA, course rigor, and academic trends.
- Standardized Test Scores: UIUC has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required but will be considered if submitted.PrepScholar
- Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, community service, and unique talents are highly valued.
- Essays and Recommendations: Personal statements provide insight into the applicant’s character and fit for UIUC.zh.wikipedia.org
Does UIUC Require the Common App Essay?
Yes, UIUC accepts the Common Application and requires the standard personal statement. Additionally, UIUC has supplemental essay prompts that allow applicants to elaborate on their interests and how they align with the university’s offerings. These essays are crucial for demonstrating fit and passion for your chosen field of study.
SAT and ACT Requirements
UIUC has adopted a test-optional policy through at least the 2025 application cycle. Students may choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If scores are submitted, they will be reviewed as part of the holistic admissions process.
For those who submit, the middle 50% of admitted students typically score:
- SAT: 1380–1530
- ACT: 30–34
UIUC does not superscore the ACT, but it does consider the highest SAT score submitted across test dates. Applicants are encouraged to submit scores if they believe those results strengthen their application, especially for competitive programs like Computer Science or Engineering.
GPA Expectations
While UIUC doesn’t specify a minimum GPA for admission, competitive applicants usually have an unweighted GPA between 3.65 and 4.00. A rigorous high school curriculum—such as AP, IB, or dual enrollment courses—is strongly recommended. UIUC places significant weight on course rigor and performance in context, meaning the strength of your school’s offerings is taken into account.
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Nearby and Comparable Universities
UIUC is part of the Big Ten Academic Alliance and frequently compared with other large, research-intensive public institutions that offer strong programs in STEM, business, and liberal arts. Comparable universities include:
- Purdue University – another midwestern powerhouse in engineering and computer science
- University of Michigan – top-ranked for research and a more selective public option
- University of Wisconsin–Madison – strong in sciences, business, and public affairs
- Ohio State University – comparable size, sports culture, and range of programs
- Indiana University Bloomington – particularly strong in business, public affairs, and liberal arts
- Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) – a top research university with a vibrant student community
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities – similar structure and emphasis on research and innovation
These schools share UIUC’s commitment to academic excellence, affordability for in-state students, and robust career pipelines through alumni networks and corporate partnerships.
Note: All data and statistics are sourced from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s official admissions website and reputable third-party sources. For the most current information, visit UIUC Undergraduate Admissions.