University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is a prestigious public research university located in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana in Illinois, United States. Established in 1867, UIUC is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois System and is known for its strong academic programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life.

UIUC is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States and is recognized globally for its excellence in engineering, computer science, business, and agriculture. The university is home to 16 colleges and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs. The Grainger College of Engineering and the Gies College of Business are particularly well-regarded, attracting students from all over the world.

The university has a strong research focus, with annual research expenditures exceeding $600 million. It is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and has contributed significantly to advancements in technology, science, and medicine. UIUC is also known for its contributions to computer science, having played a key role in the development of the first graphical web browser, Mosaic.

The campus spans over 6,000 acres and features state-of-the-art facilities, including the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA), which houses some of the most powerful supercomputers in the world. The university also boasts one of the largest academic libraries in the United States, with millions of volumes and extensive digital resources.

UIUC has a diverse student body, with over 50,000 students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 100 countries. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 1,600 student organizations, NCAA Division I athletics, and a thriving arts and cultural scene. The Fighting Illini, the university’s athletic teams, compete in the Big Ten Conference and have a strong tradition in sports such as basketball, football, and wrestling.

The university’s alumni network is extensive, with graduates excelling in various fields, including business, technology, academia, and government. Notable alumni include Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and leaders in Fortune 500 companies.

With its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign continues to be a leader in higher education and research, making a significant impact on society both nationally and globally.

• College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

  The College of ACES offers tremendous opportunities for students and faculty to achieve success. Nearly 40 organizations provide more than 2,500 undergraduate students and nearly 750 graduate students the opportunity to network, learn about careers, and contribute to the life of the college. ACES research encompasses initiatives in bioenergy, biotechnology, integrated landscapes, environmental sustainability, food and agricultural systems, global climate change, family resiliency, public policy, and more.

• College of Applied Health Sciences

  The mission of the College of Applied Health Sciences is to advance research, instruction and public engagement that promotes the development of healthy, livable communities, facilitates optimal living with disability and promotes health and wellness across the lifespan and throughout a diverse society.

• College of Business

  The College of Business is the business school at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It offers programs in accountancy,business administration, and finance. Starting from 2015, the College of Business is in partnership with Coursera to offer a list of massive open online courses (MOOCs) and an online MBA program.

• College of Education

  Our College addresses the challenges facing today's learners by advancing knowledge and impacting policy through research, teaching, and outreach. We develop the tools, methods, and habits of mind that innovate; and contribute to making education equitable and accessible to all learners; and we prepare leaders, researchers, and passionate advocates committed to transforming learners of all ages. 

• College of Engineering

  As one of the world’s top ranked engineering programs, our students, faculty, and alumni set the standard for excellence. We drive the economy, reimagine engineering education, and bring revolutionary ideas to the world. We solve the world’s greatest challenges. We look toward the future and find ways to make it a reality. Leading the innovation of virtual reality. Designing electronic tattoos to treat seizures. Building safer global water systems. Converting algae to biofuel. Exploring fusion energy.

• College of Fine and Applied Arts

  The College of Fine and Applied Arts is dedicated to the advancement, practice, and understanding of the arts. The central focus of the college is the synergy between research and the preparation of students for professional careers in the creation and interpretation of the environmental, visual, and performing arts. Deeply related to that focus is the commitment to elevate and sustain the study of the arts as both a necessary mode of understanding and a vibrant expression of human experience within the local, national, and international communities.

• Graduate College

  The Graduate College provides campus-wide leadership for the advancement of graduate education; promotes excellence, integrity, and equity in all graduate programs; and serves the scholarly and professional needs of prospective and current graduate students from recruitment and admission through graduation. We work with graduate faculty and staff to establish academic policies and programs designed to assure quality and support student progress.

• School of Labor and Employment Relations

  A recognized leader in education and research, the School of Labor and Employment Relations (LER) prepares students for exciting careers in human resources and industrial relations. Our degree programs provide students with the breadth of knowledge to become effective practitioners in corporate settings or in labor union leadership, as well as the flexibility to build a depth of knowledge in critical aspects of employment. Our Labor Education Program (LEP) provides technical training, conferences and professional development for more than 2,000 union leaders each year and is developing new online learning opportunities.

• College of Law

  Established in 1897, the University of Illinois College of Law is one of the oldest and best-known law schools in the nation. It was one of the small number of charter members and founders of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS) and was on the first national list of law schools approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Illinois is the home of the founding chapter of the law honor society now known as the Order of the Coif, has been the home to many of the nation's great law textbook and treatise writers, and is the birthplace of the interdisciplinary movements such as law and economics and law and psychology.

• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

  The scope of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences spans the breadth of human endeavor. Within its more than 60 academic units, faculty and students are pursuing knowledge on scales that stretch from the subatomic to the cosmic and from the individual to the global. We fondly refer to LAS as the heart of the University because of its fundamental role in all education and research. Our students graduate well-versed in their chosen field and with the analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills that are essential to success in life and the workplace.

• Gradute School of Library and Information Science

  The University of Illinois Graduate School of Library and Information Science (GSLIS) is recognized as a premier institution, consistently named the top LIS school in the nation. GSLIS has earned its reputation by creating pioneering and innovative educational opportunities, including the oldest extant LIS doctoral program in the country (1948), our award-winning Leep online learning program (1996), and an advanced degree in digital libraries (2005). Today, GSLIS is a charter member of the iSchools Project, a community of schools interested in the relationship between information, technology, and people and committed to increasing the visibility of the field of library and information science. Founded in 1893, GSLIS helped establish and develop the methods used in the field of LIS. Today we continue this tradition by translating the core principles of library science—information organization, access, use, and preservation—to meet the needs of our information society. This natural integration of library science and information science allows for opportunities to enhance and strengthen learning, teaching, and research: at GSLIS, we understand that fluency with current technologies is important to all information professionals, from librarians, archivists, and museum curators to information architects, Web developers, and data managers.

• College of Media

  The College of Media is focused on the study and exploration of media – how to develop content that is informative, accurate, strategic, persuasive, entertaining, creative, targeted and sharable through any media platform. We are student-centered in our approach to learning and scholarship. Our faculty are scholars and researchers exploring the impact of media and messaging. College of Media alumni are journalists, editors and producers with communications companies around the globe; they develop strategic advertising for agencies and corporations large and small; they teach in colleges and universities worldwide. Many return to the College to lecture in classes. They invite students into their companies as visitors, interns and employees. Illinois connections run deep through the industries we serve. The College is home to Illinois Public Media (WILL-AM-FM-TV-Online), the public broadcasting service of the University of Illinois. The community benefits from the high-quality news, information and entertainment produced and provided by public media. Students benefit from working directly with experts in news gathering and production.

• Carle Illinois College of Medicine

  As the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Urbana-Champaign, one of four campuses that make up one of the largest public medical schools in the U.S., works to create its vision for the future, it does so by building on the quality and strengths of its past. For over 40 years, the college has been shaping the best and brightest minds into the medical leaders of tomorrow. It has always taken pride in the caliber of the physician-scientists it educates, the research it conducts, and the difference that is being made in improving human health every day.

• School of Social Work

  The School of Social Work embraces the three-fold mission of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: research, teaching, and public engagement. The School is committed to developing and disseminating knowledge that contributes to responsive social welfare policies, programs, and practices. The School promotes the values of the social work profession through its commitment to diversity and social justice, its focus on reciprocal interactions between people and their ecological systems, and its emphasis on the use of research-based practice with vulnerable and marginalized populations. The School serves the citizens of Illinois by linking knowledge development to community needs, by educating students for public service in child welfare, health care, mental health, and school settings, and by sharing the School’s resources with the community.

• College of Veterinary Medicine

  The College of Veterinary Medicine is uniquely qualified to address some of the world’s most critical problems. Our qualifications arise from the singular role of the veterinary profession, the only health profession trained in multispecies comparative medicine and able to elucidate key interconnections among human health, the environment, and agriculture. Through our professional and graduate degree programs, we supply veterinary scientists who work to improve animal, human, and environmental health. Through our outreach programs we touch the lives of thousands of animals and their owners and provide direct services that place us on the frontline of key economic and public health issues in Illinois. Through our research expertise and facilities, we are making significant contributions to science and facilitating the translation of discoveries in the theoretical sciences into biomedical applications that benefit human and animal health.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) was founded in 1867 as the Illinois Industrial University. It was established as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act of 1862, which aimed to promote higher education in agriculture, engineering, and military science. In 1885, the university was renamed the University of Illinois to reflect its broader academic mission.

From its early years, UIUC emphasized research and innovation. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the university expanded its academic programs and facilities, becoming a leader in engineering, agriculture, and science. The establishment of the Graduate College in 1892 further strengthened its research capabilities.

During the 20th century, UIUC played a significant role in technological advancements. In the 1940s and 1950s, the university contributed to the development of early computers, including the ILLIAC series. The university also became a pioneer in computer science education, establishing one of the first computer science departments in the United States in 1964.

UIUC has been home to many groundbreaking discoveries. In 1951, John Bardeen, a professor at the university, won the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on semiconductors and the invention of the transistor. He later won a second Nobel Prize in 1972 for his contributions to the theory of superconductivity.

The university has also been a leader in accessibility and inclusion. In 1948, UIUC established the first comprehensive program in the United States to support students with disabilities, which later became the model for national policies on accessibility in higher education.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, UIUC continued to grow in size and reputation. It became a hub for research in artificial intelligence, materials science, and bioengineering. The university is also known for its contributions to supercomputing, with the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) playing a key role in the development of the Mosaic web browser, a precursor to modern internet browsers.

Today, UIUC is recognized as one of the top public research universities in the United States. It offers a wide range of academic programs across its 16 colleges and schools, serving tens of thousands of students from around the world. With a strong commitment to innovation, diversity, and academic excellence, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign continues to shape the future of education and research.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) has specific admission requirements for undergraduate and graduate applicants. The admission process varies depending on the program and level of study.

For undergraduate admissions, applicants must submit an online application through the Common Application or the university’s own application portal. Required materials include high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT, though UIUC has adopted a test-optional policy for recent admission cycles), a personal statement or essay, and letters of recommendation (optional but encouraged for certain programs). International students must also provide proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores. The minimum TOEFL iBT score is typically 80, while the minimum IELTS score is 6.5. Some programs may have higher requirements.

UIUC evaluates undergraduate applicants based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and personal achievements. Certain competitive programs, such as engineering and business, have more rigorous admission standards. The university also considers demonstrated interest and fit for the chosen major.

For graduate admissions, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Required materials typically include official transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores (depending on the program), a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume or CV. Some programs may require a portfolio or writing samples. International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements, with minimum TOEFL and IELTS scores similar to those for undergraduate admissions.

The application deadlines vary by program and level of study. For undergraduate admissions, early action deadlines are usually in November, while regular decision deadlines fall in January. Graduate program deadlines depend on the department, with some having rolling admissions and others requiring applications by December or January for fall admission.

UIUC is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in engineering, business, and computer science. Admission is competitive, and applicants are encouraged to highlight their academic achievements, leadership skills, and relevant experiences in their application materials.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), one of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The HLC accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region of the United States. UIUC has maintained continuous accreditation since 1913, ensuring that its academic programs meet high standards of quality and rigor.

In addition to institutional accreditation by the HLC, many of UIUC’s individual colleges, schools, and programs hold specialized accreditations from professional organizations. For example, the College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is a globally recognized accreditation for business schools. The College of Engineering is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that its engineering and computer science programs meet industry standards.

The College of Education at UIUC is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which evaluates teacher preparation programs. The School of Architecture is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), and the School of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The College of Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), which is essential for graduates who wish to practice law in the United States.

Accreditation is an important process that ensures the university maintains high academic standards, provides quality education, and remains eligible for federal funding and financial aid programs. The accreditation process involves periodic self-evaluations, peer reviews, and assessments to ensure continuous improvement. UIUC regularly undergoes accreditation reviews to maintain its status and uphold its reputation as a leading research institution.

The university’s accreditation status can be verified through the Higher Learning Commission’s official website. Additionally, UIUC provides detailed accreditation information on its own website, including reports and documentation related to past and upcoming accreditation reviews. This transparency helps students, faculty, and stakeholders stay informed about the university’s commitment to academic excellence.

Overall, accreditation plays a crucial role in maintaining the credibility and recognition of UIUC’s degrees, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers and further academic pursuits.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for academic, social, and personal growth. With over 50,000 students, the campus provides a diverse and inclusive environment where students can engage in various activities, clubs, and organizations.

One of the key aspects of student life at UIUC is its extensive selection of student organizations. The university has more than 1,600 registered student organizations (RSOs), covering interests such as academic and professional development, cultural and international groups, performing arts, sports, and community service. These organizations allow students to connect with peers who share similar interests and develop leadership skills.

UIUC also has a strong Greek life presence, with more than 90 fraternities and sororities. Greek organizations provide students with opportunities for networking, philanthropy, and social events. Many students participate in Greek life to build lifelong friendships and engage in community service projects.

The campus offers a variety of recreational facilities, including the Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) and the Campus Recreation Center East (CRCE). These centers provide students with access to fitness equipment, swimming pools, basketball courts, and group exercise classes. Intramural and club sports are also popular, allowing students to stay active and compete in various sports.

UIUC is known for its lively campus events, including concerts, cultural festivals, and guest lectures. The Illini Union serves as a central hub for student activities, offering study spaces, dining options, and entertainment. The university also hosts annual traditions such as Homecoming Week and Quad Day, where students can explore different organizations and campus resources.

Housing options at UIUC include residence halls, university-owned apartments, and off-campus housing. Living on campus provides students with a supportive community and easy access to academic buildings and dining facilities. The university's dining services offer a variety of meal plans and diverse food options, including vegetarian and international cuisine.

The city of Champaign-Urbana enhances student life with its vibrant downtown area, featuring restaurants, coffee shops, music venues, and cultural attractions. Students can explore local parks, attend live performances, and participate in community events. Public transportation, including the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD), makes it easy for students to navigate the area.

Overall, student life at UIUC is dynamic and engaging, offering countless opportunities for students to grow academically, socially, and personally. Whether through student organizations, recreational activities, or cultural events, UIUC provides a well-rounded college experience.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students beyond lectures and seminars.

The University Library is one of the largest public university libraries in the United States, providing access to millions of books, journals, and digital resources. Students can use study spaces, research assistance, and technology support.

The Campus Recreation facilities include the Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) and the Campus Recreation Center East (CRCE). These centers offer fitness equipment, swimming pools, basketball courts, group fitness classes, and intramural sports programs.

The Student Health and Wellness Services are provided through McKinley Health Center, which offers medical care, mental health counseling, wellness programs, and pharmacy services. The Counseling Center provides mental health support, workshops, and crisis intervention.

The Illinois Student Union serves as a hub for student activities, dining, and social events. It houses meeting rooms, study spaces, and entertainment options.

The Career Center helps students with career planning, resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies. It also organizes career fairs and networking events.

The Technology Services department provides IT support, free software, and access to computer labs across campus. Students can also use printing services and high-speed internet.

The Housing and Dining Services offer on-campus housing options, dining halls, and meal plans. There are also apartment-style residences for graduate students and families.

The Cultural and Resource Centers include the Asian American Cultural Center, Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center, La Casa Cultural Latina, and the Native American House. These centers provide support, programming, and community engagement opportunities.

The Public Transportation system, operated by the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD), offers free bus services for students, making it easy to travel around campus and the surrounding areas.

The Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) provide opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, leadership development, and community service. There are over 1,600 student organizations covering a wide range of interests.

The International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) supports international students with visa guidance, cultural adjustment programs, and social events.

The Disability Resources and Educational Services (DRES) ensures accessibility and accommodations for students with disabilities, including assistive technology and academic support.

These facilities and services contribute to a well-rounded student experience at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is a top-ranked public research university known for its academic excellence, innovation, and diverse opportunities. Here are a few reasons why students should choose UIUC:

1. Academic Excellence – UIUC is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States. It offers over 150 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, computer science, and liberal arts.

2. Strong Engineering and Computer Science Programs – The Grainger College of Engineering is one of the best in the world, with highly ranked programs in computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Many graduates go on to work for top tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.

3. Cutting-Edge Research – UIUC is a leader in research and innovation, with over $600 million in annual research funding. The university has contributed to major technological advancements, including the development of the first graphical web browser, Mosaic.

4. Diverse and Inclusive Community – With students from all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries, UIUC fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment. The university values diversity and provides numerous cultural organizations and support services.

5. State-of-the-Art Facilities – The campus features world-class facilities, including the Siebel Center for Computer Science, the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, and one of the largest university libraries in the country.

6. Strong Career Opportunities – UIUC has strong connections with top employers, and its graduates have high job placement rates. The university hosts career fairs, networking events, and internship opportunities to help students succeed in their careers.

7. Vibrant Campus Life – With over 1,600 student organizations, NCAA Division I athletics, and a lively arts and music scene, UIUC offers a dynamic and engaging student experience. The university also has a strong tradition of school spirit and community involvement.

8. Affordable Education – As a public university, UIUC provides a high-quality education at a more affordable cost compared to many private institutions. There are also numerous scholarships and financial aid options available for students.

Choosing the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign means joining a prestigious institution with a strong academic reputation, excellent career prospects, and a vibrant campus life. It is an ideal place for students looking to challenge themselves, grow academically and professionally, and make a lasting impact in their fields.