University of Illinois Chicago

UIC offers an affordable education, ranking tenth nationally in social mobility. The university provides comprehensive financial aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities. Starting in fall 2025, the UIC Aspire grant program will cover tuition and mandatory fees for new Illinois residents with family income or assets of $75,000 or less.

UIC has an acceptance rate of 79% and is test-optional. The university seeks to enroll a diverse student body, with 40% of the fall 2024 freshmen being first-generation students. UIC is committed to providing access to higher education for students from all backgrounds.

UIC provides a challenging, career-building education with a focus on research and discovery. The university offers over 90 bachelor's, 100 master's, and 60 doctoral degrees across 16 colleges. Teaching and research are intertwined, with researchers bringing their expertise into the classroom.

UIC graduates benefit from the university's extensive alumni network of over 337,000 people, with nearly 72% working in Chicago. The university is recognized as a leader in social mobility and value, preparing students to compete globally. A popular major at UIC is Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services.

UIC is a diverse and welcoming campus community with over 460 student organizations. While largely a commuter school, UIC offers a range of activities and resources to foster community, including cultural centers and student centers. The campus is located near vibrant neighborhoods with easy access to downtown Chicago.

UIC prioritizes campus safety with 24-hour security patrol, emergency phones, and escort safety rides. The university also provides a mobile campus emergency alert system. Students are advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially at night, due to the urban setting.

The Honors College at UIC fosters academic excellence and provides opportunities for civic engagement and leadership. Honors students participate in interdisciplinary courses, research projects, and a capstone project. The college offers scholarships and exclusive facilities, such as a computer lab and study lounges.

UIC's diverse student body includes a significant international population, representing 65 countries. The university provides resources and support for international students, including visa assistance and cultural programs. All international students are required to have health insurance.