University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Getting in is the hard part. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign admitted 42.4% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: 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, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

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.

• Testingoptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from illinois.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will 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.

The sticker price is about $33,642, but that is not 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.

“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.

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, and 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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $14,355.

Is University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $81,054 ten years after enrolling, and 85% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.