University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Jose State University: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Jose State University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Jose State University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Jose State University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs San Jose State University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.

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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USAStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
4.4/5
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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3.8/5
3.1 Internships
2.7 Part time work
4.1 Post study jobs
4.6 Quality of faculty
4.5 Student Life
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USACourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USA MS
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USA MBA/PGDM
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USA B.E. / B.Tech
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USA B.Sc.
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USA BBA
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Other courses
- MEng (11 courses)
- M.A. (38 courses)
- BHM (1 course)
- M.Arch (11 courses)
- B.A. (36 courses)
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- M.A. (17 courses)
- M.Arch (1 course)
- B.A. (30 courses)
- MPH (1 course)
- BFA (5 courses)
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USACollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1867
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
6370 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
1857
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
154 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+4 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s SJSU USACampus Comparison
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Country Facts
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
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.
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2025Read more

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.
Reviewed on 5 Mar 2024Read more

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.
Reviewed on 28 Feb 2024Read more
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.
Reviewed on 11 Feb 2024Read more
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.
Reviewed on 25 Jan 2024Read more
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.
Reviewed on 7 Jan 2023Read more
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.
Reviewed on 31 May 2024Read more
Views on SJSU USA campus
A
Anonymous
BFA in Graphic Design - Batch of 2027
Offered by San Jose State University
3.9
Interesting place to learn and grow.
Tips: Everything here is deeply technical and detailed, and even if you don't get an opportunity to work in the USA, you can find something decent and take back a lot of exposure with you. But come prepared, and if you have a scholarship or some form of financial aid, it makes sense to come here. It's just not worth it if you are forced to make a big sacrifice.
Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
MS Computer Engineering - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
3.7
The competition is high, as everyone is here with the same purpose.
Tips: I did transition from CBSE to a completely international and unique pattern of teaching, and the process has been intense. The competition is high, and everyone is here with the same purpose, so standing out is not the easiest. The weather is divine, but unpredictable also and the career fair sees a lot of attention here. Get involved in a club of your choice and sign up for office hours whenever needed.
Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
MS in Data Analytics - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
3.9
The university provides great amenities that can be fully utilized by the students.
Tips: The living costs are crazy high, so you'll have to budget like a pro just to get by. You'll learn to be very self-reliant also, so to do well, accountability is a must. The library stays up till super late, so make use of it during the deadline. My experience has been fulfilling as I have learnt a lot and found professors who are truly inspiring.
Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
Master of Public Administration - Batch of 2025
Offered by San Jose State University
4
The classes are interactive and engaging.
Tips: The best thing about this college has got to be its location, how central it is if you are looking for something in the heart of Silicon Valley. You'll learn a lot of industry information, and classes are super relevant too. You get to explore a lot of cool case studies and personal projects here as well.
Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025Read more
A
Akshansh 
MS in Industrial and Systems Engineering - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
3.7
Lots of potential to grow.
Tips: I did see myself come out of my shell on campus and was truly able to embrace university life here. People are kind, and you'll have a lot to look forward to. Jobs are not really readily available, so come mentally prepared by doing some research. Public transport is decent, but biking is ideal. Also, the faculty are highly qualified and expert in their field. Feel free to reach out to them.
Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
Masters of Science in Software Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by San Jose State University
3.9
The classes here are very industry-relevant and practical.
Tips: The classes here are very industry-relevant and practical as well. Since San Jose is a tech hub itself, you will get the opportunity to network and be a part of some very passionate and well-versed individuals here, including your professors, as some of them have even worked in Silicon Valley. I have learnt a lot so far and had a good time overall.
Dislikes (Part time work): There are limited options available when it comes to working part-time, mainly because of the regulations in place. There are some on-campus opportunities, and you can try to look for a research position or a teaching assistantship. Other than these, there's not much available.
Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025Read more
A
Aarav Sharma 
BA in Communicative Disorders and Sciences - Batch of 2025
Offered by San Jose State University
3.6
Lots to learn and grow.
Tips: Coming from Delhi, I was actually quite surprised by how relaxed and fun studying in San Jose is. The weather is ideal and the lectures are really engaging. The campus is diverse, and there are plenty of Indian students around. Also, don't skip the academic or career fairs; I landed my first internship like that.
Reviewed on 28 Jun 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
BA in Liberal Studies - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
3.1
Pretty enriching and rewarding experience.
Tips: Studying here will open your eyes and make you grow more than you'd imagine. If you are passionate about your major, you are sure to have a good time. A lot of classes offer extra credit and participation points, so try to be as involved as you can. Aside from academics, there are numerous events, clubs and activities which you should take advantage of.
Reviewed on 27 Jun 2025Read more
T
Tanmay 
BFA in Animation & Illustration - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
3.7
he environment is very liberal and welcoming.
Tips: I initially took a while to get accustomed to the education system as it was wildly different from what I had experienced so far back home. But after a semester or so, I fell in love with the place. Here you are encouraged to learn and absorb the material in your own way, and even experimenting is encouraged. The environment is very liberal and welcoming, which is a lot of the reasons why I had such a great time in school.
Reviewed on 27 Jun 2025Read more
S
Sanjay 
BA in Child and Adolescent Development - Batch of 2025
Offered by San Jose State University
3.5
The university campus is vibrant and diverse.
Tips: My best decision was coming to study here. I have enjoyed every minute I spent at SJSU, and I would be remiss if I didn't mention the city as well. San Jose is a beautiful city, and I'm really glad I got to study here. I really recommend that anyone planning to study here do some travelling in the surrounding area. I should've applied for the scholarship. I think I'd have had a pretty good shot at getting one. But the scholarships probably didn't have much impact on what I was learning, so I don't think missing out on them affected my studies too much. All in all, San Jose State University is a good place to study.
Reviewed on 25 Jun 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
MS in Artificial Intelligence - Batch of 2025
Offered by San Jose State University
3.9
Great university to study at and greater opportunity to grow professionally.
Tips: Be prepared for a dynamic journey at SJSU. Right from class schedules, to assignments, to exams, quizzes, and much more, it will be a wholesome experience in your academic journey. Not only studies, but there are a plethora of opportunities to build other skills with their rich opportunity for various clubs and sports. Above all, networking opportunities are excellent around the Bay Area.
Likes (Public transportation): There are well-connected bus and train services around the campus, and they cover a fair bit of the city around the campus. For students, it is free as well. In addition, for students, there is an option for Baywheels (electric as well as normal) cycles to go from place to place.
Dislikes (Part time work): Being a state public university with a relatively smaller campus size, the number of available on-campus job opportunities may be limited compared to larger institutions. However, there are still provisions for students to apply for positions such as Teaching Assistant (TA), RA, and various other departmental or administrative roles.
Reviewed on 31 May 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Accounting and Analytics - Batch of 2027
Offered by San Jose State University
3.7
Truly a unique place to be in and learn.
Tips: Things came across as overwhelming at first, but once I was able to better my schedule, I was able to really adjust to living here. People are friendly, but they also appreciate their space, so you might have to get used to that. I also received a scholarship for 6,000 USD, which made things more affordable for me. The coursework can be hectic, and the environment is not exactly stress-free, but it does pay off, I feel. Professors and faculty have been helpful as well.
Likes (Safety): The environment both on and off campus is pretty safe, with very few incidents and crime reports. When you are near San Francisco, you need to be more wary about pickpockets and such, which can be avoided if you are careful with your belongings in public spaces.
Reviewed on 30 May 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
Master of Biotechnology (MBT) - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
4.1
Great to grow individually.
Tips: You will need to balance your academics as well as your co-curriculum to the best of your ability while somehow managing living costs all from the first semester itself. In a way, studying here teaches you real growth and adulthood. The environment is pretty competitive and serious as well because mostly people come higher for their post-studies, like Master's or PhDs. Deadline and plagiarism is taken very seriously.
Reviewed on 30 May 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
BA in Communication Studies - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
3.9
Our faculty is very dedicated, and they are more than happy to hear us out.
Tips: I did not expect to enjoy my major and campus as much as I have so far. This university truly gives you a glimpse of Silicon Valley life, and the professors are more dedicated to our classes than we deserve. They are on the ball to assist in research and/or assistantships. On the downside, the cost of tuition and other expenses remains high, and even though scholarships have reduced, you can rely on professors for roles in research and assistantship.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Our faculty is very dedicated, and they are more than happy to hear you out. What is important is that you respect their time and take advantage of office hours whenever possible. You should also show participation and feel free to express yourself. They are pretty diverse as well.
Reviewed on 29 May 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
BA in Behavioral Science - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
3.7
San Jose State University is quite expensive as compared to other colleges.
Tips: I have had a pretty decent experience at this school. However, I should also add that it's more expensive than many other schools where some of my friends attend. But this is mainly because of unavoidable factors such as lack of time and groceries, which have risen in cost. A meal plan can help save you time and increase convenience if you have a tight schedule like mine. The city is beautiful, and once you come here, you will have a hard time leaving. Since I am still studying here, I cannot say much about the job prospects, but so far, the situation does not look promising.
Reviewed on 29 May 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
MS in Data Analytics - Batch of 2025
Offered by San Jose State University
2.9
Good learning experience for shaping the career.
Tips: Students should come to college early, at least a month before starting college. Starting to apply for part-time jobs as early as possible helps to land part-time jobs easily. Reach out to professors for TA's and RA's both directly and over email, as it helps a lot in boosting your experience academically and helps a lot to build your profile. Attend a lot of networking events, talk to people, seek referrals, know about the tech, work on personal projects, attend conferences, join clubs, hackathons and build person branding form the beginning - all these helps a lot in shaping one's future and bring you lot of great opportunities and improves confidence. Internships, coding and job applications keep doing from the beginning.
Likes (Indian Food): I mostly cook at home and rarely eat out. Groceries from various countries are easily available, and the city offers a wide range of quality local and international cuisines. Although the cost of living and rent are slightly high, the college supports low-income and in-need students by providing food essentials such as vegetables, fruits, milk, and pulses through its pantry, which greatly helps students.
Dislikes (Safety): The college is located downtown, where there is a noticeable presence of unhoused individuals in and around the campus and even in the library. They sometimes cause trouble. As a result, walking around the campus for necessities can sometimes feel unsafe, especially during certain hours.
Reviewed on 13 May 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
MS in Environmental Studies - Batch of 2023
Offered by San Jose State University
3.7
Absolutely great college with amazing infrastructure and diverse campus.
Tips: This college is well-reputed. The main thing is that, as you go for the feels option, they give us the option to pay fees monthly. This is convenient for those from middle-class families. I would not recommend making this your permanent home as you should always try new things. While the college is fine for staying in long-term, the campus is not that interesting. I'd also say this place is a good place to study and grow as a person. Campus security is good and it is really safe here. Everyone is friendly, so nothing to worry about. You can absolutely feel safe here. The teachers are caring, and all other staff are good, so overall security is great. Overall, I am satisfied with the college.
Reviewed on 28 Jan 2025Read more
A
Anonymous
BA in English - Batch of 2025
Offered by San Jose State University
4.1
Truly a memorable experience to reminisce.
Tips: The campus initially came off as rather laid-back and calm but as the semester progressed, the intensity and workload also increased. The popular courses here are primarily in STEM and the faculty is also well-reputed. You will have to undergo relatively grading in your classes which can often be make or break.
Reviewed on 31 Oct 2024Read more
S
Sharanya Gopala 
MS in Justice Studies - Batch of 2026
Offered by San Jose State University
4.1
Had a positive experience at San Jose State University.
Tips: The curriculum is very challenging but the professors are equally competent and the experience will leave you well prepared and ready for the job market which my seniors have also declared. Once you start applying, make sure you leave adequate time for the visa process as well. I am fully content with my course, university and the country.
Reviewed on 31 Oct 2024Read more
I
Ishaan Mathur 
MS in Bioinformatics - Batch of 2024
Offered by San Jose State University
3.7
great experience being here
Tips: One of the first things that stood out to me was the strong sense of community and diversity present here. The International Students Association has been an integral part of helping me settle in, and I've made most of my friends from here as well. Campus life will allow you to explore multiple opportunities and outdoor activities, which you should take advantage of. Overall, I am fully satisfied with my experience.
Reviewed on 29 Oct 2024Read more
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