University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · Public · 36,258 students

A Top College Town with Rich Cultural Life

Acceptance rate

42.4%

SAT (mid 50%)

1310–1520

Avg net price

$14,355

after aid

Testing

Optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign admitted 42.4% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1310–1520 on the SAT and 30–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Impact, Innovation, and Academic Excellence

Our graduate programs are designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.

Verified from illinois.edu and admissions.illinois.edu and isss.illinois.edu and admissions.illinois.edu and admissions.illinois.edu and grad.illinois.edu and ahs.illinois.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from illinois.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Explain, in detail, an experience you've had in the past 3 to 4 years related to your first-choice major.

    Up to 150 words

  • Describe your personal and/or career goals after graduating from Illinois and how your selected first-choice major will help you achieve them.

    Up to 150 words

  • What are your future career or academic goals?

    Up to 150 words

  • What are your academic interests? Please include 2-3 majors you're considering at Illinois and why.

    Up to 150 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from illinois.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $33,642. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $14,355.

To be considered for financial aid and scholarships, students should fill out the FAFSA, and Illinois residents may qualify for the Illinois Commitment program which can cover full tuition.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $81,054.

Verified from illinois.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Research and Experimental Psychology6% of degrees
  • Computer Engineering4% of degrees
  • Accounting and Related Services4% of degrees
  • Statistics4% of degrees
  • Finance and Financial Management Services4% of degrees
  • Economics3% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“A Tuesday might involve exploring global cultures at the Spurlock Museum, attending a performance at the Krannert Center, or diving into research at the vast University Library.”

The vibrant Champaign-Urbana community offers inspiring food, art, music, and festivals, complemented by campus cultural hubs like the Krannert Art Museum and Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

College TownArts & CultureCommunity-focused

Quick answers

What do people ask about University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?

Is University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is optional.
How hard is it to get into University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?
Very hard. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign admits 42.4% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1310 to 1520 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign cost?
The list price is about $33,642. After aid, families pay $14,355 on average.
Is University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $81,054 ten years after enrolling. 85% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Spike answers from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.