Admission requirements at University of Illinois

Hi fellow applicants. Anyone else applying to U of I? I'm struggling to find a definitive account of their admission requirements. I know GPA, test scores, and ECs are key, but is there anything specific they're looking out for?

Indeed, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) considers several factors for admission. To give you an idea of what they look for in an applicant, in recent years the middle 50% unweighted GPA among admitted students has been around 3.65-4.00. The middle 50% SAT score is 1380-1530, and that for the ACT is 30-34.

That being said, I agree with you that GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars play a significant role. Course rigor, meaning the difficulty of the classes you take, is also important. They prefer students who have taken challenging courses in high school, such as Honors, AP, or IB classes.

Essays are another crucial part of the application. UIUC uses the essays to gain insights into the student's unique qualities and interests outside of academic achievements. Thus, a well-crafted essay that genuinely reflects you can help your application stand out.

UIUC is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, so submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional for all applicants. However, if a student's score is strong, it can make their application more competitive.

Also, UIUC does review an applicant's extracurricular activities to understand their dedication and leadership ability. However, keep in mind that quality is more critical than quantity. They seek students with Tier 1 and Tier 2 extracurriculars, which demonstrate a high level of achievement or leadership. However, all types of extracurricular involvement, from Tier 1 to Tier 4, can contribute value to your application.

Keep in mind that the specific requirements might vary depending on the program you're applying to. For instance, the Gies College of Business or the Grainger College of Engineering might value certain areas slightly more than others. Therefore, it might be useful to browse their specific college pages or reach out to them for more specific information.

Remember, every component of your application provides a different opportunity for you to demonstrate your fit for UIUC. Make each part count, and good luck with your application!