University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Admission at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign admits about 45% of applicants, which makes it selective. Admission is holistic: four years of transcript and course rigor first, then essays and activities, then recommendations and test scores. Grades and rigor carry most of the decision; well-written essays and a clear intended major help at the margin.

GCC applicants: international curricula (IB, American Diploma with APs, A-levels) are read in their own terms. English proficiency tests are usually waived for English-medium schools; check the university's waiver rule. Saudi students on a Ministry scholarship should confirm the programme is on the approved list before applying Early Decision.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign supplemental essays, 2025-26

1. First-choice major experience150 words

   Explain, in detail, an experience you've had in the past 3 to 4 years related to your first-choice major.

2. First-choice major goals150 words

   Describe your personal and/or career goals after graduating from Illinois and how your selected first-choice major will help you achieve them.

3. Undeclared: future goals150 words

   What are your future career or academic goals?

4. Undeclared: academic interests150 words

   What are your academic interests? Please include 2-3 majors you're considering at Illinois and why.

5. Second-choice major essay (optional)150 words

   Please explain your interest in your second-choice major or your overall academic or career goals.

Every US applicant also writes the Common App personal statement: 650 words, seven prompts. Admitify's coach reads drafts line by line and never writes for the student.

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Engineering · Computer Science · Business