University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Diego State University: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Diego State University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Diego State University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Diego State University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Diego State University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State UniversityStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
4.4/5
6 Verified Reviews
4.2 Internships- 4.7 Part time work
- 4.3 Post study jobs
- 5 Quality of faculty
- 4.8 Student Life
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4.3/5
6 Verified Reviews- 3.8 Internships
- 4.7 Part time work
- 4.3 Post study jobs
- 4.7 Quality of faculty
- 4.8 Student Life
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State UniversityCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State University MS
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State University B.E. / B.Tech
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State University MBA/PGDM
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State University MEng
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State University M.A.
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Other courses
- BBA (22 courses)
- B.Sc. (34 courses)
- BHM (1 course)
- B.A. (36 courses)
- M.Arch (11 courses)
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- BBA (12 courses)
- B.Sc. (16 courses)
- B.A. (30 courses)
- Others PG (2 courses)
- BFA (1 course)
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State UniversityCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1867
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
6370 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
1897
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
283 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+3 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s San Diego State UniversityCampus Comparison
Campus videos & images
University of Illinois Bike Tour
The Journey Is Yours | The Power Of I
The Campus Tour | Urbana-Champaign
Front View
Building
Outside view
Campus
View
Winter View
ConvocationBuildingOutside viewCampusViewWinter ViewConvocation
SDSU Webinar
SDSU Transform Your Tomorrow
SDSU Move-In Experience
Define Your Tomorrow at SDSU
Fall 2023 Recruitment - High School Seniors
Front View
Campus
Building
Aerial View
Classroom
Lecture Hall
Library
Library
Auditorium
Student Union Theatre
Zura residence Hall
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Country Facts
Study in USA
Top Ranked and Reputed Universities
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program- Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Campus Culture and Safety- Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
- Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
Good Quality of Life- High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
- Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Study in USA
Top Ranked and Reputed Universities- Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
- Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Campus Culture and Safety- Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
- Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
Good Quality of Life- High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
- Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Get a detailed view about the country. Add a college!
Student’s views on campus
Views on University of Illinois Urbana Champaign campus
A
Anonymous
Master of Education in Educational Administration and Leadership - Batch of 2026
4.3
A big university in a small town with modern facilities.
Tips: The university is truly awesome, you don't have to worry about that. If you are looking for a calm but fun town to spend your 5 years of the Ph.D, then you are looking at the right place. It's very fresh in here. If you are expecting US city life, then you probably need to go to Chicago, which is around 3 hours away from here. There are many on-campus jobs available and even plenty of off-campus jobs as well. If you are a graduate student, it's even better because you can work with professors on their research projects. The hourly pay is also not bad as the expenses in this town are very low. Overall, I am very satisfied with the environment, people, university culture, eating out options, etc.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): In general, there are fewer immigration options in the US. Provided the current scenario, the opportunities are getting even fewer. If I get a chance to permanently immigrate to the US, I would definitely not think twice about it. But the chances are better if you are from a STEM field or Academia.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1400
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 70000
Keval Morabia
Professional Master of Computer Science (MCS) - Batch of 2020
4.5
One of the best CS grad schools where I was able to make net positive money during my Masters!
Tips: Do not let cold weather be a reason for not joining UIUC, you get used to it. Apart from the thesis, there is no difference between MS and MS programme and both are considered the same for job applications but the thesis programme helps you improve your profile by getting to work with a professor on a research project. Computer Science programme has decent TA/RA opportunities and if you get one, you get 100% fee waiver and $2500 monthly stipend which is well above the monthly expenses. Post covid, intake to the professional MS programme has significantly increased from ~60 to ~300 resulting in a lot more competition to get a TA/RA.
Likes (Quality of faculty): UIUC has some of the best faculty in Computer Science, many times professors teach content that has been published in books by themselves. UIUC has many diverse professors, a very wide choice of course selection and a lot of flexibility in choosing courses.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Since Urban-Champaign is a college town, there are not that many Indian restaurants and for people who eat Jain food, there are hardly any food options outside. But there are many events in the department buildings where you can occasionally get free Pizzas.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
Akash Singh
Master of Science in Systems and Entrepreneurial Engineering - Batch of 2022
5
Best campustown in USA which gives you most bang for your buck compared to anywhere in states
Tips: Very accommodating culture. It will be the best experience of your life. Teachers are very knowledgeable. MS programme can be tailored to your liking where you can take courses from any department without much restrictions. This happened to be the best experience of my life.
Likes (Safety): Campustown is organized in a manner where all the students converge to Green Street where we have everything needed creating an awesome environment to meet new people and have fun. Cricket lovers can join Cricket Club of Illinois for a rewarding cricket experience and tons of tournaments in summer.
Dislikes (Public transportation): Faculty is very approachable and compassionate. After first semester most Masters student can find a RA or TA position. Try to meet with the faculty and show what drives you to do research and teaching and you will get a way around. The faculty is well-educated and mostly from universities ranked above UIUC.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 900
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 62650
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering - Batch of 2024
4.1
Most people and faculty are friendly.
Tips: Champaign is the best town to live in for those coming to the US for the first time. Pros such as low rent, a friendly campus, etc. can be of help. I availed a Research Assistantship which resulted in a tuition fee waiver. Very satisfied with my courses and the University.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes21 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering - Batch of 2023
3.9
My Review on doing a Masters in UIUC
Tips: Since the university is in Illinois, the weather during the winters is brutal, which most Indians will find difficult to adapt to. Hence I advise you to buy proper winter clothes when winter approaches. The grocery stores on or near campus are also expensive, so you need to learn how to buy food in bulk without wasting anything. UIUC has a large diaspora of not only Indians but other nationalities as well, so socializing is necessary but not tedious. Despite this, feelings of loneliness can set in since everyone will be busy studying for their courses, which one should be prepared for.
Likes (Public transportation): The campus has a functional transportation service which is free for students of UIUC, with plenty of buses there to reach most parts of Champaign-Urban. Despite buses taking more time to reach the destination you wish to go to, the part that is already included in your tuition fees is convenient since one pays $60 as public transportation fees.
Dislikes (Value for money): Since I did my Masters in Aerospace Engineering, finding internships for myself was tedious due to ITAR. And unlike Indian institutes, we have to find internships by ourselves because most companies that come to the career fair look for US citizens only, though I would advise going to the career fair anyway to network.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1200
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85000
A
Ayush Sharma
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2026
4.3
You will be required to work hard.
Tips: UIUC is a work hard-play hard type of university. If you're into that, then definitely do apply! Also keep in mind that UIUC does not give out many scholarships to international students.
The research opportunities are great here, along with more than 1000+ clubs and organizations.
Likes (Public transportation): The bus transportation system is one of the best in the country. The bus system is free for all students, and the bus network extends beyond the campus, to the surrounding Champaign-Urbana area. There are a number of buses, which means there's never a shortage or long waiting time on them. Buses are also more so generally they are quite on time.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There aren't many authentic versions of Indian dishes in the dining halls. Although, you could get Indian food in restaurants outside the campus. Some days, in particular dining halls such as ISR, Indian food is provided in the form of samosas or paneer, however I wouldn't rely on the authenticity.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 6516
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 150000
R
Rishabh Asthana
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2017
4.2
Life changing and worthwhile experience.
Tips: Before you join this university it is important to prepare beforehand regarding the course curriculum and academic requirements. If possible get a tour of the campus before you permanently move in and join whatever informative sessions are held. Part- time opportunities are not so great.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 6700
Prepping time for classes39 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 113750
Views on San Diego State University campus
A
Anonymous
MS/MA in Geography - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Diego State University
3.9
Lovely place to study.
Tips: The best thing about this university is how accepting and welcoming the environment is and students often go out of their way to make you feel included. The faculty and the fact that they are happy to help out whenever needed. Explore the campus when you get here as the architecture is beautiful and you will get an idea about where your classes are located.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 5475
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85975
A
Anonymous
MS in Big Data Analytics - Batch of 2024
Offered by San Diego State University
4.2
School of fun & opportunities
Tips: There are so many hidden opportunities like scholarships, job opportunities, fun gigs. Be open to opportunities and don't hesitate to speak to anyone. You don't know where you find the gold. Do not just sit in the heads of Indian students. Make at least two or three American friends and learn about their work styles and methods.
Likes (Part time work): SDSU has a lot of options for part time jobs. You just have to be proactive. There are ample opportunities in student dorms, dining, TA & RA, and Lab Assistant opportunities. Also, there are many clubs and cultural centres that hire Undergraduate and Graduate Student Assistants. So make sure you follow their Instagram pages for lot many opportunities.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Permanent settlement in US is very difficult if you follow the track of doing Masters and then availing work permit. It depends on factors if your employer sponsors the position then if your H1B is picked. USCIS has been very strict in recent years considering the immigration norms. US is any time place with lots of money and opportunities. However India is still growing at a rapid pace. So if you are earning more than 20LPA in India with an experience of less than 3 years. I would suggest considering growth opportunities in India!
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 850
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
MS Information Systems - Batch of 2024
Offered by San Diego State University
4.6
The University in America's Finest City: San Diego State University
Tips: There is a cultural shift as there is a very diverse student population and campus culture. University has welcoming faculty and staff are always ready to help you. SDSU is known for academic excellence, diverse student body and vibrant college life, you can get engaged in research activities on campus. I am satisfied with the course structure and curriculum as it aligns with my area of interest. San Diego is popular for its climate, beaches and attraction.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 802
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 120420
P
Prashanth Kattela Chandrashekar
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2023
Offered by San Diego State University
4.1
Research well before joining.
Tips: I would say that as a student one should research on the coursework and the department. Thesis requirements, number of credits, course fees and living expenses. The taxes after getting a job are quite high compared to other states in California. All these said San Diego is a beautiful city and I don't intend to leave this city anytime soon.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1011
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 100308
Chiranjivi Aulakh
MS in Medical Physics - Batch of 2024
Offered by San Diego State University
4.3
University where you could have fun while studying.
Tips: It is like every other American university. The fees here are less compared to other universities. It is very tough to get scholarships for your fees, but there are a ton of part-time opportunities at the university. Additionally, the weather here is beautiful so you do not have to worry about snow and harsh weather conditions. Plus, the university graduate association is very active, they will take you out for free to some tourist attractions in San Diego like the beach, zoo, sea world, etc.
Likes (Part time work): There are a lot of part time options here in the university. You can work as a TA, RA with your professors in your department. Apart from that, you could also work on campus with many restaurants and cafeterias. Also, the university has a stadium where all kinds of events happen and many students are employed there as well.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): It seems like a very long process, with first on F1 visa as a student, then OPT, then H1B and then PR. From what I have heard from the seniors, they have been in the US for like eight to ten years and they are still on some kind of work visa. But, life here is pretty good in San Diego.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1299
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 59170
V
Vaibhav Joshi
MS Information Systems - Batch of 2024
Offered by San Diego State University
5
Wonderfull Life at San Diego State University
Tips: Everyone should research properly for the course curriculum of this university and find out proper accommodations off campus. This university provides each and every information that is required by students, so that they can figure out the best course for themselves.
Likes (Public transportation): SDSU is famous for weekend parties. Everyone enjoys studying, working and parting on campus. The campus has movie night on every Mondays, where we can connect with other fellow students and learn from their experiences. The students here are polite enough to guide other students.
Dislikes (Internships): Faculties help every student to understand each and every concept. San Diego State University has a variety of professors that teaches even after provided class time. They help us in every possible way, be it with assignments, coding lectures and even self doubt classes for upcoming exams.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1507
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 80034
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