University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of Massachusetts Amherst: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of Massachusetts Amherst based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of Massachusetts Amherst on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of Massachusetts Amherst based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Vs University of Massachusetts Amherst on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass AmherstStudent 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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4.1/5
3.6 Internships
3.5 Part time work
4.3 Post study jobs
4.9 Quality of faculty
4.7 Student Life
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass AmherstCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass Amherst MS
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass Amherst B.E. / B.Tech
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass Amherst MBA/PGDM
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass Amherst M.A.
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass Amherst 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. (25 courses)
- BHM (1 course)
- B.A. (33 courses)
- M.Arch (5 courses)
- Others PG (9 courses)
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University of Illinois Urbana Champaign V/s UMass AmherstCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1867
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
6370 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+2 More
Established Year
1863
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
1450 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 UMass AmherstCampus 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
UMass Overview
Summer in UMass
School Of Public Health & Health Sciences at UMass
The Impact Of UMass Rising
UMass Testimonials
UMass Campus
UMass Campus
UMass Front View
UMass Inside Campus
UMass Aerial View
UMass Aerial View
UMass Aerial View
UMass Classroom
UMass Classroom
UMass Old ChapelGet a detailed campus view, add a college
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 UMass Amherst campus
A
Anonymous
MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2027
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4.3
The university is a bit on the expensive side but worth it.
Tips: Be prepared to apply mathematics. Every course in this university is mathematically heavy, and you will learn a lot as well. Mass Amherst does not provide any scholarships to master's students. But overall, the university is amazing for people who want to explore research and learn cutting-edge technologies.
Likes (Post study jobs): A lot of big tech companies do offer sponsor visas, and seniors in our college seem to be getting placed well. Our seniors have been placed in development roles like web development and cloud. Machine learning engineer roles are also available to students.
Dislikes (Part time work): Only dining jobs are available to graduation students, making it really convenient. Also, no research assistantship or teaching assistantship is available. Hourly positions are sometimes available in summer, but plan to have all finance already sorted.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1075
Prepping time for classes21 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 102175
A
Anonymous
MS in Environmental Engineering - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
3.6
Highly qualified faculty and a welcoming campus.
Tips: There has been a transition in various aspects of my life and personality. My courses in Mass have helped me in analysing things from various angles, which has improved my problem-solving skills and thinking ability. As my bachelor's was also in the USA, I would say life here has become quite familiar and comfortable for me. The downside is that if I don't get a job here within a certain time, I'll have to leave, and I haven't planned for that. Please keep your options in check before you commit and make the most of what you learn.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2875
Prepping time for classes37 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 95250
A
Anonymous
MS in Biostatistics - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4
Great campus and an eye-opening experience.
Tips: Don't be afraid of change and allow things to happen to you. That's my conclusion about studying abroad in general, especially here. Some programs here are seriously underrated, and I feel I've gained a more in-depth knowledge here than I would have anywhere else. The campus is great, and you'll feel safe here throughout.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3025
Prepping time for classes36 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85975
D
Dinesh 
MBA with MS in Civil Engineering - Batch of 2027
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
3.5
Lot of growth in so limited time.
Tips: I have indeed seen a lot of growth and understanding develop in me after moving here. One of the crucial things Mass taught me was adaptability. Extra credit will help you stay afloat in some of the trickier courses, and there are plenty of culture-friendly options in the form of restaurants and communities, so you will always feel a sense of belonging here. Travelling within the city is convenient and affordable for students.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): There is barely any scope for actually finding a decent job after graduation here. Although some industries are open to hiring immigrants, that would be mainly in STEM fields, and it is becoming increasingly competitive by the day. Given a chance, I would love to live in this country after graduation.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2975
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 82900
A
Anonymous
MBA with MS in Civil Engineering - Batch of 2026
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4
An interesting sand meaningful experience.
Tips: I have transitioned well after coming here, and a lot of people back home can see the difference in my personality as well. The classes and coursework are intense, and you'll have to rely on yourself rather than expect too much spoon-feeding here. A lot of learning happens in group settings via projects and fieldwork.
Dislikes (Internships): With internships and jobs in general, a lot depends on your own network and ability to put yourself out there. There is not too much that the university involves itself with. What can help is striking a connection with professors and being active in classes and office hours.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3250
Prepping time for classes34 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 71325
S
SR 
MS in Data Analytics and Computational Social Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
3.7
There is an Indian student union and many events on campus. Try to participate in them.
Tips: I mainly chose to study here because of the affordability and strong faculty for my programme. Be ready for rough winters and get your winter essentials ready in time. The labs are well-equipped and huge, encouraging you to go all out. There is an Indian student union as well, and many other such cultural clubs on campus to be a part of.
Dislikes (Part time work): You are not really allowed to work part-time in a lot of places in the United States. Moreover, with my work schedule, it was really implausible to find time. You can look for roles within the campus, but that is also limited in scope and opportunities.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2550
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 76725
K
Kushal Raju 
MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4.1
Great university in terms of research and it is really peaceful.
Tips: The transition to the University of Massachusetts Amherst was smooth academically, but there was a noticeable cultural shift socially. There are no scholarships at the University of Massachusetts Amherst at the master's level, but there are a few benefits like tuition waivers for Teaching Assistantships (TAs) or Research Assistantships (RAs) but not in courses like MS CS and MS B.A.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The professors are really good and focus on how well you have understood anything. They maintain regular office hours, and many are open to scheduling additional time if you have further questions or need guidance. The courses are designed to provide both theoretical and application-based knowledge. The university is well diverse.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There are no Indian restaurants nearby. Most of the foods are of different cuisines. The university does have its own dining facilities, where good food is provided but the food is mostly not from my country of origin. If you are looking for good Indian food, you will have to go to Boston.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1075
Prepping time for classes14 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85825
A
Anonymous
MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4.7
UMass is a better place to be researcher
Tips: The coursework would be tough, the place is bit remote. There is no TA/RA positions but plenty of on-campus jobs are available. Learn to balance everything together. Master's journey is not as easy as it seems in India and the education pattern is very different. Hence, one needs to break the stereotypes before pursuing this dream.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1200
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 130000
A
Anonymous
MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4.3
Explore as much as possible. Good course.
Tips: Not much cultural shift is there to experience. No scholarships are there at University of Massachusetts Amherst. Everything is good as of now, courses are also good.
Umass is a bit of research oriented so if you are interested to research then go for it.
Very less systems courses, so if you are not into AI/ML things then think again.
Likes (Student Life): Student life is pretty cool, there are many gyms and many sports activities if you are interested. The food also is great in the commons where you can get all sorts of foods including Indian food, so it's pretty much covered, and the living is a bit expensive which is a problem.
Dislikes (Value for money): It's very expensive so think about that as well. And there are no TA or RA jobs so that is another minus point. The only part time allowed is the UMass dining, which helps you get food and money which is decent enough and also there will be no way of income.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1125
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 100750

Jash Mitesh Dalal 
MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4.4
Course framework is good for work opportunities.
Tips: TA/RAs are not allowed in the CS department but it is allowed in the other departments. Happy with the course. Scholarships are not available for this course. A cultural shift is also present. Food is difficult to get from India so knowing cooking before coming here is a must.
Likes (Value for money): Course content is good. ML is upcoming and Mass Amherst has a very high rating for Machines Learning or Data Science concentration in Computer Science. For other courses, there is a possibility of TA/RA and in MS CS there is a possibility of gradership. Even good part-time jobs are available to keep you giving.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Permanent immigration is difficult in the US. But after doing an MS the chances are less since H-1B renewal is less. If the school is offering Ph.D. programs and is a public land-grant university, like Mass Amherst, it will offer Ph.D. programs and will give you a chance at immigration options.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 750
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 100000
A
Anonymous
MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2025
Offered by University of Massachusetts Amherst
4.6
Extremely good for Computer Science
Tips: This university does provide TA or RA easily. Grade posts can be applied and is quite easy to get into. Otherwise, there are plenty of research opportunities and diversified faculty research fields. Courses such as RL are a must for computer Science students as the concepts are originated here.
Likes (Part time work): There are about 4 dining common and 1 canteen, hence plenty of openings are available for students. They allow the student employees to eat there after their shifts and provide a health and wellness fund. The pay per hour is also good enough Hence, the benefits are plenty.
Dislikes (Indian Food): Indian restaurants are very few at Amherst, compared to other cities in the US. There are about 3 restaurants about 10 miles away from the place, good authentic Indian food. Either way, you have an option in Doordash from these restaurants. Cannot expect too many options.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1000
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 110000
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