University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, United States of America

Located in Springfield, Illinois, the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is a public university. With an emphasis on post-graduate education, the Illinois General Assembly founded the university in 1969 as Sangamon State University.
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Frequently Asked Questions

The University of Illinois Springfield is a small public university with around 4,000 students, including both undergraduate and graduate populations. It offers a more intimate, personalized learning environment with small class sizes. The campus is known for its diverse student body, including a significant number of international students and online learners.
UIS's greatest distinction is its location in the state capital, providing unparalleled access to internships and networking opportunities in state government, politics, and non-profit organizations. It emphasizes experiential learning through internships, practicums, and capstone projects as a core part of its curriculum.
While many local students commute, UIS has a vibrant residential campus life with on-campus housing, over 100 student clubs and organizations, and competitive NCAA Division II athletics. The university actively fosters a community feel with events, leadership opportunities, and recreational activities.
UIS takes a holistic review approach, but for assured admission, a high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically expected. While test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required for most students, submitting them can strengthen an application. Students below a 3.0 GPA are still encouraged to apply and may be admitted based on a review of their full academic profile.
UIS has rolling admission, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, it is best to apply by the priority deadlines of April 1st for the Fall semester and November 1st for the Spring semester to ensure consideration for scholarships and to secure a spot in classes and housing.
A complete application includes the online application form, the application fee, official high school transcripts or GED score report, and optionally, SAT/ACT scores. Transfer students must also submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
The UIS campus is considered very safe. It has its own full-service Police Department with sworn officers available 24/7. The campus is well-lit, and services like emergency blue light phones, a safe-walk escort service, and a comprehensive emergency notification system are in place to ensure student safety.
Students can contact the UIS Police for immediate assistance. For non-emergency support, the Office of Dean of Students, the Counseling Center, and the Wellness Hub provide confidential resources for mental health, conflict resolution, and personal safety concerns. The university also has strict policies against discrimination and harassment.
Yes, on-campus housing in residence halls like Lincoln and Founders is secure, requiring key card access for entry. There are live-in Residence Directors and Student Resident Assistants (RAs) on each floor. The UIS Police regularly patrol the residential areas, and security cameras are strategically placed throughout campus.
UIS is highly regarded for its programs in Computer Science, Accountancy, Business Administration, Public Administration, Political Science, and Criminal Justice. The university's strengths are closely tied to its capital city location, providing exceptional opportunities in government, technology, and management.
Yes, UIS is a leader in online education. Many of its degree programs, especially at the graduate level, can be completed entirely online. For on-campus students, there is often flexibility to take a mix of in-person and online courses to fit their schedules.
Due to the small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio, UIS professors are very accessible. They maintain regular office hours and are typically open to scheduling additional meetings. It is common for students to work closely with professors on research projects and receive personalized mentorship.
The first and most important step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year. UIS's school code is 009333. This form determines your eligibility for federal, state, and university-based financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study.
Yes, UIS offers merit-based scholarships for international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. These are typically awarded based on academic achievement and standardized test scores. Students are automatically considered for these scholarships upon admission; no separate application is usually required.
Most UIS merit scholarships are renewable for up to four years, provided the student maintains a specified minimum GPA (often between 2.5 and 3.0 on a 4.0 scale) and completes a minimum number of credit hours each academic year. The specific renewal criteria are outlined in the scholarship offer.
Springfield is the state capital, offering a unique blend of government, history, and a affordable mid-sized city lifestyle. Students have access to internships, museums, historic sites like the Lincoln Presidential Library, and a growing downtown scene with restaurants and coffee shops. It is less hectic than a large metropolis like Chicago.
UIS offers traditional residence halls with suite-style living (shared bedroom, shared bath) and apartment-style living in Founders Hall (private bedroom, shared kitchen/living area). The Housing Commons is a newer facility offering modern amenities. Living on campus is required for first-year students not meeting exemption criteria.
Yes, there are numerous apartments and rental houses located within a short driving distance of the campus. The UIS Off-Campus Housing Resource website provides listings and resources to help students find suitable accommodation. Many students choose to live off-campus after their first year.
The primary visa option is Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows most students to work in the U.S. for 12 months in a field directly related to their major. Students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) designated programs can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, allowing for a total of 36 months of work authorization.
The International Student Services (ISS) office provides dedicated advising on immigration regulations. They host workshops on OPT/CPT, help students complete the application paperwork, and guide them through the process of maintaining legal status before and after graduation.
Yes, international students on an F-1 visa can work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the semester. While this on-campus work is valuable for experience and income, it does not directly lead to a post-study visa. However, the skills gained can strengthen your resume for future OPT employment.

University Of University of Illinois Springfield Application Statistics

3944
2503
1441
740
$ 12242
2.6
6

University Of University of Illinois Springfield Application Statistics

3944
2503
1441
740
$ 12242
2.6
6

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  • One University Plaza, Springfield, IL 62703, United States
  • (217) 206-4847

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