University of Illinois Chicago

Chicago, United States of America

The University of Illinois Chicago was established in 1965. It is an American higher education establishment located in Chicago, Illinois. In the last three decades, UIC has transformed itself into one of the top research universities in the United States.
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The University of Illinois Chicago is known as Chicago's leading public research university (R1 classification) with a core commitment to access and equity. It is particularly renowned for its health sciences programs, including one of the nation's largest medical schools, and for its strong programs in engineering, business, architecture, and the urban-focused social sciences. UIC provides a world-class education to a highly diverse student body in the heart of a global city.
While UIC has a significant number of students who commute, it has transformed into a vibrant residential campus with a strong campus life. Over 5,000 students live in university-owned housing, and hundreds of student organizations, events, and campus facilities like the Student Center and recreation centers foster a dynamic and engaged community, blurring the lines between a traditional commuter and residential campus.
UIC has a total enrollment of over 34,000 students across its undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. This includes a diverse and vibrant community from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, making it a microcosm of the global city it calls home.
The priority deadline for Fall freshman admission is November 1st. The final deadline is February 1st. For Transfer students, the Fall deadline is April 1st, and the Spring deadline is November 1st. It is always recommended to check the official UIC admissions website for the most current and specific program deadlines.
Admission is competitive and holistic. For Illinois residents, a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically expected for guaranteed consideration, though some programs are more selective. UIC is test-optional for admissions, meaning submitting SAT/ACT scores is not required for most applicants, allowing greater emphasis on high school coursework and GPA.
A complete graduate application typically includes an online application, official transcripts from all previous institutions, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, a current resume/CV, and GRE/GMAT scores if required by the specific program. International students must also provide proof of English language proficiency.
UIC has its own fully sworn, 24/7 police department (UIC Police) that patrols the campus. Additional resources include over 1,000 security cameras, a network of blue-light emergency phones that connect directly to police, a free night-time shuttle service, and safety escort services upon request. The UIC Safe mobile app provides direct access to emergency contacts, friend walk, and alert systems.
The UIC campus is located in a large metropolitan area and the university takes extensive measures to maintain a secure environment. The campus itself is well-patrolled and lit, with secure access required for residence halls and many academic buildings after hours. Students are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings, utilize university safety resources, and take part in safety education programs offered by the university.
The UIC Safe app is the official mobile safety app of the university. It features a mobile blue light that sends your location and information to campus security with one touch, a "Friend Walk" that allows you to share your location with a friend as you walk, access to emergency procedures, and push notifications for urgent campus alerts.
Yes, it is possible to change your major, but the process and feasibility depend on the specific colleges and programs involved, as some have capacity constraints and specific GPA requirements. Students should first speak with their current academic advisor to discuss the process and then connect with an advisor in the desired program to understand the requirements for transferring.
Absolutely. UIC, as an R1 research institution, actively encourages undergraduate students to engage in research. The Chancellor's Undergraduate Research Award (CURA) provides funding for projects, and many faculty members welcome undergraduates into their labs. Students can find opportunities by talking to professors, department advisors, and through the Office of Undergraduate Research and External Fellowships.
Class sizes vary depending on the level and subject. Introductory-level lecture courses can be large, often with several hundred students, but these typically break down into smaller discussion sections led by teaching assistants. Upper-division and graduate-level courses are significantly smaller, often with 20-30 students, allowing for more personalized interaction with faculty.
The federal school code for the University of Illinois Chicago is 001776. This code is used on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to have your financial information sent to the university for aid consideration.
UIC offers a wide range of scholarships, including merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen and transfer students, departmental scholarships for students in specific majors, and donor-funded scholarships with various criteria. There are also need-based grants, work-study programs, and loans available as part of a financial aid package.
Typically, admitted students who have submitted their FAFSA by the priority deadline begin receiving financial aid award letters in the spring for the upcoming academic year. The timing can vary, so it is important to monitor your my.UIC portal and ensure all required documents have been submitted.
The cost of on-campus housing varies by room type and building. For the academic year, rates typically range from approximately $8,500 to $12,000 for a shared room with a meal plan. Specific rates for each residence hall are published on the Campus Housing website.
On-campus housing is not guaranteed for all students. It is offered on a first-come, first-served basis after a student has been admitted and paid their enrollment deposit. First-year students are given priority if they meet the housing application deadlines, but it is important to apply early.
There are numerous off-campus housing options in the neighborhoods surrounding UIC, including Little Italy, Pilsen, University Village, and the West Loop. The UIC Off-Campus Housing website provides a listing service to help students find apartments, roommates, and understand tenant rights in Chicago.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization that allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their degree. Students must apply for OPT by submitting a form to their international student advisor and then filing an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before their program end date.
To stay in the U.S. after OPT expires, you would typically need to change your visa status. The most common path is to be sponsored for an H-1B visa by an employer. The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to employ graduate-level professionals in specialty occupations. It is subject to an annual cap and a lottery system.
It is crucial to plan ahead, as processing times for OPT by USCIS can take 90-120 days or more. Students are eligible to apply up to 90 days before their program end date and must ensure their application is received by USCIS no later than 60 days after their program end date. Late applications will be denied.

University Of University of Illinois Chicago Application Statistics

29048
3971
17575
11473
1613
19
18
77 %
$ 26500
$ 10900
$ 3180
2.9
32
67 %
1260
29
6.5
600
299
149
150

Learn About -

* All cost are in USD

University Of University of Illinois Chicago Application Statistics

29048
3971
17575
11473
1613
19
18
77 %
$ 26500
$ 10900
$ 3180
2.9
32
67 %
1260
29
6.5
600
299
149
150

Learn About -

* All cost are in USD

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