UNITED STATES · URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

public · Founded 1867 · Languages: en

In short

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a leading public research university known for its extensive academic programs, innovation, and diverse international community. It offers a strong return on investment and affordability alongside academic excellence.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1867
Students: 60,000
International students: 12,474
Acceptance rate: 60%
Tuition (intl): €30–44k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Urbana-Champaign, 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 Urbana-Champaign · United States

Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences in Molecular & Cellular Biology

The Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences (BSLAS) in Molecular & Cellular Biology program offers a comprehensive foundation in key biological sciences. You will gain in-depth knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, cellular biology, biochemistry, physiology, and structural biology, complemented by a strong background in chemistry, mathematics, and physical sciences. The curriculum allows for specialization within various areas, including biochemistry, cells and tissues, developmental biology, infection and immunity, microbiology, genetics, neurobiology, and physiology. An advising program is available to help students tailor their advanced coursework to their specific interests and career goals.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · United States

Computer Engineering

The Computer Engineering program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is housed within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE). This major focuses on the design and application of computing systems across all levels, appealing to students who enjoy understanding, building, and working with computers. You will gain comprehensive knowledge of computer systems, from their fundamental components to their overall architecture, preparing you to develop the computing systems and devices used daily. This program provides a strong foundation in core computer engineering knowledge, including circuits, systems, electromagnetics, computer systems, electronics for information processing, and computer science. The curriculum integrates lecture, discussion, laboratory work, and project-based learning. Students benefit from extensive laboratory courses and access to advanced computing facilities, ensuring practical experience. Engineering design, communication, and teamwork are emphasized throughout the program.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · United States

Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical & Computer Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Electrical & Computer Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers two admission tracks: a traditional doctoral program for those with a master's degree and a direct doctoral program for those with a bachelor's degree. This program focuses on advanced research and aims to develop students' abilities to identify and solve complex technical challenges in the field. Students will gain in-depth knowledge in specialized areas, develop strong communication and teaching skills, and be prepared for research-oriented careers. Research within the department is diverse, spanning numerous interdisciplinary programs and laboratories, including affiliations with centers like the Beckman Institute and the Coordinated Science Laboratory. This provides ample opportunities for graduate students to engage in cutting-edge research and collaborate across disciplines. Students can also pursue specialization through the Computational Science & Engineering optional graduate concentration. Graduates are expected to demonstrate expertise in at least one sub-area of ECE, possess a broad understanding of the field's research landscape, and be capable of functioning effectively as researchers and potential educators.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · United States

Doctor of Philosophy in Information Sciences

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Information Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a research-focused degree program offered by the School of Information Sciences (iSchool). This program equips students with the advanced knowledge and skills to conduct independent, impactful research in various areas of information science. It emphasizes a deep understanding of complex global information systems, intellectual reasoning, creative inquiry, social and cultural awareness, and leadership in community engagement. The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 48 graduate hours of coursework and 32 graduate hours of thesis credit. Key components include foundational seminars, research methods, electives, a field exam, and dissertation research. Students are encouraged to develop expertise across subfields of information science and to engage in interdisciplinary research. The program aims to prepare graduates for academic careers, research positions, and leadership roles in diverse information-related fields.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · United States

Doctor of Philosophy in Landscape Architecture

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Landscape Architecture program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides an opportunity for advanced study and research into land use and its human impact. This interdisciplinary program, jointly administered with the School of Architecture, emphasizes cross-disciplinary inquiry. Students can focus on areas such as history and theory, technology and environment, or behavioral and cultural factors in design. The program aims to equip students with strong research skills, the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly through writing and presentations, and the capacity to conduct original, significant research. Students will develop advanced written, visual, and technical literacy, and engage in design research methodologies. For those interested in urban planning, faculty also participate in a related PhD program administered by the Department of Urban and Regional Planning.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · United States

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering

The Department of Mechanical Science & Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering. This program integrates fundamental scientific principles with traditional mechanical engineering disciplines. Research focuses on critical societal issues in health, security, energy, environment, manufacturing, and transportation. Students can specialize in areas such as nanomechanics, biomechanics, and computational science and engineering. The department emphasizes a research-driven curriculum with opportunities for both traditional PhD pathways (requiring a prior Master's degree) and direct PhD pathways (for those entering with a Bachelor's degree). The program aims to equip graduates with a deep understanding of core mechanical engineering areas, the ability to conduct independent research, and strong communication and collaboration skills. Faculty and students engage in theoretical and experimental investigations across a wide range of topics, supported by numerous research centers and laboratories.

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 academic programs are available at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?

+

The university offers a wide array of academic programs with over 150 undergraduate majors, 200 master's programs, and 90 doctoral programs across 16 colleges. This extensive selection caters to diverse academic interests and career aspirations.

What are the tuition fees for international students?

+

Tuition and fees vary significantly by program and residency status. For example, the MS Strategic Brand Communications (SBC) program has specific tuition rates for the 2026-2027 academic year, which are subject to change. Prospective students should consult the university's official financial aid pages for precise and up-to-date information for their chosen program.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?

+

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests. Accepted tests include TOEFL iBT with a minimum score of 79, IELTS Academic with a minimum overall score of 6.5, or Duolingo English Test with a minimum score of 115.

Does the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offer scholarships for international students?

+

Yes, the university offers International Undergraduate Scholarships, which are merit-based awards for high-achieving international applicants. Graduate students may be eligible for Fellowships & Assistantships that include tuition waivers and stipends.

What is the campus environment like for international students?

+

The university is a diverse and inclusive community, attracting students from over 125 countries. It fosters a vibrant academic and student life, with extensive resources and cultural centers to support international students' success and integration.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Why study here

Student life

For international students

Programs