University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs The University of Illinois at Chicago: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs The University of Illinois at Chicago based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs The University of Illinois at Chicago on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs The University of Illinois at Chicago based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs The University of Illinois at Chicago on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at ChicagoStudent 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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3.9/5
2.9 Internships
3.4 Part time work
4.1 Post study jobs
4.4 Quality of faculty
4.4 Student Life
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at ChicagoCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at Chicago MS
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at Chicago B.E. / B.Tech
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at Chicago MBA/PGDM
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at Chicago M.A.
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at Chicago BBA
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Other courses
- MEng (11 courses)
- B.Sc. (34 courses)
- BHM (1 course)
- B.A. (36 courses)
- M.Arch (11 courses)
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- B.Sc. (18 courses)
- B.A. (36 courses)
- M.Arch (4 courses)
- Others PG (3 courses)
- BFA (3 courses)
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s The University of Illinois at ChicagoCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1867
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
6370 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
1982
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
250 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 The University of Illinois at ChicagoCampus 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
Convocation
Building
Outside view
Campus
View
Winter View
Convocation
University at a Glance
University Housing
Welcome to Computer Science at UIC
Welcome to UIC Business
Welcome to UIC
Liberal Arts and Sciences at UIC
University of Illinois (Chicago Campus) picture
University of Illinois (Chicago Campus) picture
University of Illinois (Chicago Campus) picture
University of Illinois (Chicago Campus) picture
Campus
College of Pharmacy – Rockford Campus
East Campus
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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.
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 The University of Illinois at Chicago campus
A
Anonymous
MA in Political Science - Batch of 2027
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
3.9
Student life in Chicago.
Tips: There was a slight cultural shock in terms of body language, pace of life and even how classes are conducted here. There is a lot more student autonomy here than I am used to, but the class registration and academic advising are a bit chaotic and rent is expensive as well. You'll have better luck networking outside of campus as compared to the student centres for placements. Good country to live in and work in.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2400
Prepping time for classes34 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 103725
A
Anonymous
MS in Business Analytics/MS in Finance - Batch of 2026
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
3.6
Lots to do and explore here.
Tips: The finance and business programs here are well thought out and planned in a way that gives you an understanding of the core of business management. Classes are very practically conducted and professors help bring in multiple perspectives to better your understanding. Admin work can be slow and I've even seen delays in the visa process, so be aware. I've had a good learning experience here.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1750
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 101400
A
Anonymous
MA in Communication - Batch of 2025
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
3.7
My university life in Chicago is decent.
Tips: The student experience here is very subjective and tends to vary based on involvement and perspective. You are expected to have an independent mind and tackle coursework problems your own way, especially if you're in a creative major. The best part about the university is its location in downtown Chicago which helps a lot with connectivity and giving a city feel. Be wary of theft and pickpockets.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1600
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 101400
A
Anonymous
BS in Computer Science - Batch of 2025
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
3.9
Awesome place and great opportunity.
Tips: It's good about being in middle of the city. You should be outgoing to network and meet more and more people. And beware of the weather. It changes quite quickly and goes really coud. Easy to score a great Goa but be up to date with assignments and stuff.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2000
Prepping time for classes12 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90000
A
Anonymous
MS in Business Analytics/MS in Management Information Systems - Batch of 2025
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
3.1
The college is good but the quality has deteriorated over time.
Tips: The University of Illinois at Chicago is good. The faculty works hard to give students the best education possible, even though fee waivers have been removed and the dean of CBA has changed, which has affected funding a lot. On-campus positions are good, and every student gets one in the end. The campus atmosphere is excellent. Overall, I am quite satisfied with my experiences.
Likes (Public transportation): The public transportation system here is excellent. There is no place you can't reach with the public transport. With both metro and buses, things only get easier. The only downside is that safety is a concern. There are too many homeless people and gun violence is very high, so you have to be on your toes at all times.
Dislikes (Internships): The market is bad right now, and students are having a hard time getting internships. Even experienced students are finding it difficult to land one. The college doesn't provide much support to help students get internships, but the market has improved recently and is looking positive at the moment.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1275
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 89850
S
Shobhit Srivastava 
BS in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2021
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
4.4
It’s a fun filled and academically driven college.
Tips: Students should know that there are a lot of facilities there on campus for students to access. Ranging from academic to non academic and extracurricular so as to be involved in any of them the students should know that they can reach out to the faculty.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3457
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 75957
R
Rohan Rajesh Wangikar 
MS in Mechanical Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
4.4
Moving here has been smooth
Tips: The transition from India to moving here has been good.
I experienced no cultural shift as there are many Indians here as well.
The staff provides no special facilities as such for Indian students but there are orientations. One should know where to stay and what areas to avoid in Chicago.
What courses to go for is an important decision.
Also, an internship requires extra fees. College students should know about the UIC global situation.
No prior courses are required to settle into this course.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 873
Prepping time for classes9 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
BS in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
4.3
A diverse, supportive, and career-focused university experience.
Tips: The initial transition can be challenging due to the cultural and academic differences, but the support systems in place are really helpful. I didn’t receive a scholarship, but there were many part-time job opportunities to support my expenses. The coursework is intensive, but very rewarding. I'm very satisfied with the quality of teaching, the diversity on campus, and the career opportunities after graduation.
Likes (Student Life): Student life is vibrant and inclusive. I attend lectures, join group studies, and actively participate in clubs like the Entrepreneurship Club and International Students’ Association. Regular cultural events and career fairs make campus life engaging, with great support for academics and well-being.
Dislikes (Indian Food): While there are a few Indian restaurants around, they are often on the expensive side for a student budget. Most serve North Indian cuisine with limited South Indian options. On average, a meal outside can cost anywhere between USD 12 to 20. Because of limited variety and high pricing, I mostly prefer cooking at home. Grocery stores do carry basic Indian spices and ingredients, so it’s manageable if you’re comfortable cooking.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 0
Prepping time for classes18 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 52000
A
Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Disability and Human Development - Batch of 2023
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
4.4
Great support from faculty and management.
Tips: I have received a scholarship. I had a lot of opportunities like sports activities an industry-relevant curriculum, and strong career placement support, which ultimately translated to a significant return on investment for students entering the competitive job market. All faculty were very supportive and helpful. The tuition fee for my course is largely justified considering the high quality of education provided, including access to specialized faculty, advanced technology, industry-relevant curriculum, and strong career placement support. I can now see the benefits and have no regrets about my decision to study here. Overall, I am satisfied with my experiences.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 5975
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 103825
G
Gargi 
MS in Construction Engineering and Management - Batch of 2024
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
2.6
University is amazing, but don’t be a Global Student.
Tips: Never apply through Shiksa or any other agency and become a Global Student. I joined UIC via SHIKSHA and I am a research assist currently with 100% tuition waiver, but that was taken away from me only because I am a global student, who did not pay application fees.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1702
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 60532
H
Himanshu 
Bachelor of Arts in Design Studies - Batch of 2023
Offered by The University of Illinois at Chicago
4.4
Best campus I have ever seen in my life.
Tips: Students should have good ettiquetes and better english speaking and understanding. Students should have better skills to enjoy in good way.
Students should have quality to attract fellow students to make good friends and explore things in the campus.
Likes (Internships): We get so many internships before the final exams. We get internships on the basis of practicals and skills that we have. We get paid internships also to manage expenses of daily routine. We also get apprrciation certificate from the companies to make better CV.
Dislikes (Student Life): Students face more stress and do not enjoy much. Students face stress of exams, internals, practicals, and more over curricular activities. They are bounded by these things ispite of enjoying college life and exploring new things, people and places.
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2022Read more
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