University of Illinois Chicago
The Vibe Check
UIC feels like a dynamic urban campus where the city is your classroom and campus. The vibe is diverse, ambitious, and gritty, with a constant buzz of students navigating the modern campus nestled among Chicago's iconic neighborhoods. It's a place for self-starters who thrive on real-world energy and opportunities.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UIC is a powerhouse in health professions, engineering, business, and computer science, with strong ties to Chicago's medical and corporate sectors. Students benefit from hands-on research opportunities alongside faculty, especially in STEM fields, supported by state-of-the-art facilities. The curriculum is rigorous and career-focused, blending theory with practical application.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Chicago
Students dive into Chicago's world-class food scene, catching deep-dish pizza or exploring diverse neighborhoods like Pilsen and Little Italy. For fun, they hit up Lake Michigan beaches, attend free concerts in Millennium Park, or take the 'L' train to Wrigley Field for a Cubs game. The city’s museums, nightlife, and cultural festivals keep weekends packed.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($68,740):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UIC has its own police department and a well-lit, modern campus, but like any urban university, students should stay aware of their surroundings. The campus is generally safe, but it's wise to use campus shuttle services and avoid isolated areas late at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prime location in Chicago provides unmatched internship and job opportunities
- ✓ Diverse student body fosters a rich cultural and learning environment
- ✓ Strong programs in health, engineering, and business with research access
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition and solid graduation rate for a public urban university
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate is lower than some peer institutions at 60.9%
- ✗ Urban setting can feel overwhelming or unsafe for some students
- ✗ Commuter-heavy campus may lack a traditional residential college vibe
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UIC is known for its top-ranked programs in health professions, engineering, business, and computer science, as well as its commitment to urban education and diversity. It's a leader in research, particularly in medicine and technology, with strong ties to Chicago's industries. The university's location in a major city provides real-world learning experiences.
UIC has an acceptance rate of 78.5%, making it moderately selective. The middle 50% SAT range is 1150-1330, with an average of 1242, and most admitted students have strong GPAs. While not extremely competitive, applicants should focus on solid academic records and demonstrate fit with the campus's urban mission.
Campus life is vibrant but urban, with a mix of commuter and residential students. Over 300 student organizations cater to diverse interests, from cultural clubs to professional groups. The campus buzzes with events, and its location means easy access to Chicago's endless entertainment, though it lacks a traditional 'college town' feel.
Yes, especially for in-state students with an average net price of $12,313 and median earnings of $68,740 after 10 years. The degree pays off through strong job placement in Chicago's economy, though out-of-state students should weigh costs against opportunities. Overall, the ROI is solid for a public urban university.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1858
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 23,627
- In-State Tuition $14,338
- Out-of-State $29,360
- Zip Code 60607
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $12,313 and strong in-state value, UIC offers excellent ROI, especially for Illinois residents. The 10-year median earnings of $68,740 outpace many peers, making the investment worthwhile for most students. Out-of-state tuition is higher, but scholarships and Chicago's job market can offset costs.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.