UNITED STATES · CHICAGO

University of Illinois Chicago

public · Founded 1982 · Languages: en

In short

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is a large public research university offering over 260 programmes in a vibrant urban setting. It is recognized for social mobility and provides access to a leading health sciences system.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1982
Students: 35,869
International students: 5,000
Acceptance rate: 79%
Tuition (intl): €28–32k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Chicago, United States

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,420/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

University of Illinois Chicago · United States

Bachelor of Arts in Spanish

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Spanish at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is offered through the Department of Hispanic and Italian Studies within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Spanish language, literature, and cultures. It aims to develop strong communication skills in Spanish, critical thinking abilities, and an in-depth knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests, whether in linguistics, literature, cultural studies, or professional applications.

University of Illinois Chicago · United States

Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies

The Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies is designed for students aiming for professional careers in jazz and related contemporary music fields. The program focuses on developing individual talents as jazz artists while equipping them with the versatile skills needed for a well-rounded musician. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students gain knowledge, exposure, and practical experience. Key components of the program include weekly private instruction, in-depth improvisation study in small group workshops, and extensive coursework in jazz theory, arranging, composition, jazz history, and jazz keyboard. The curriculum aims to foster creative growth and technical proficiency. Located in Chicago, students benefit from a vibrant and diverse professional music scene. Many students find opportunities to perform professionally off-campus, immersing themselves in Chicago's rich jazz community. This includes engagement with renowned organizations and events such as Jazz at Symphony Center, The Jazz Institute of Chicago, and the annual Chicago Jazz Festival.

University of Illinois Chicago · United States

Bachelor of Music in Music Education (BMus)

The Bachelor of Music in Music Education (BMus) program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) prepares students to become leaders in the field of music education. This program is designed to equip future educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach music effectively in various school settings. The curriculum includes supervised field experiences in schools, ensuring practical application of learned theories. Students will graduate with the qualifications needed for music teaching licensure.

University of Illinois Chicago · United States

Bachelor of Music in Performance

The Bachelor of Music in Performance is designed for students passionate about advancing their skills in piano, voice, orchestral, or band instruments. This program offers the opportunity to study with distinguished artist-teachers in Chicago, benefit from regular master classes led by acclaimed guest artists, and engage in numerous performance opportunities. Students will also have access to a weekly concert series featuring world-renowned guest artists and faculty members. The curriculum includes mandatory weekly private lessons throughout the four years of study.

University of Illinois Chicago · United States

Biomedical Engineering Graduate Programs

The Richard and Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) offers graduate programs for students seeking advanced study and research opportunities. You will learn from world-renowned faculty and engage in research within a dynamic urban environment in Chicago. The department is committed to supporting your academic journey and preparing you for impactful careers in the field. We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant graduate community.

University of Illinois Chicago · United States

BS in Biochemistry

The Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry program is offered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and housed within the Department of Chemistry. This program is designed for students who plan to pursue advanced studies in biochemistry or molecular biology, are considering medical school, or aim for careers in fields like biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotechnology. Students receive advising through the LAS advisors in the Department of Chemistry.

Scholarships

for United States

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Duke University

Karsh International Scholarship Program

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.

University of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)

University of Miami Stamps Scholarship

Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated tuition fees for international undergraduate students at the University of Illinois Chicago?

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For the 2025-26 academic year, international undergraduate tuition at UIC is estimated to be between USD 32,492 and USD 37,538 per academic year. These figures are subject to annual changes.

What are the estimated living costs for students at UIC?

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Students at UIC should budget approximately USD 14,000 to USD 18,000 per year for living expenses. This estimate includes costs for housing, food, and transportation.

What academic programmes does the University of Illinois Chicago offer?

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UIC offers over 260 degree programmes across 16 colleges, including undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees. Popular areas include health sciences, engineering, arts, and humanities.

Does UIC offer scholarships or financial aid for international students?

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While some scholarships like the UIC Honors College Scholarships are available for high-achieving undergraduates, specific financial aid options for international students should be verified directly with the university. Graduate students may be eligible for assistantships that include tuition waivers and stipends.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?

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International applicants typically need a TOEFL iBT score of at least 80 or an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no sub-score below 6.0. Specific program requirements may vary.

University of Illinois Chicago

Why study here

Student life

For international students