UIUC Ranking 2025: Stats + Admission Tips

Thinking about applying to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)? The UIUC ranking is something you’ll definitely want to check out. Rankings can give you a good sense of a university’s reputation, research strengths, and how well students do after graduation—and UIUC holds its own among the best, especially when it comes to engineering and tech.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how UIUC stacks up nationally and globally, what the application process looks like, and how you can boost your chances of getting in. Plus, we’ll highlight what makes UIUC stand out in a crowded field of top universities.

• How Does UIUC Rank Nationally and Globally?
• UIUC Application Process
• Other UIUC Rankings
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Does UIUC Rank Nationally and Globally?

Let’s take a look at UIUC’s rankings from the three most well-respected sources: U.S. News & World Report, Times Higher Education, and QS World University Rankings.

U.S. News & World Report Rankings

U.S. News & World Report examines graduation rates, faculty resources, and academic reputation to determine where schools stand. If you’re wondering how UIUC stacks up, here’s a look at its rankings in 2025:

UIUC is ranked 9th among the top public universities in the country. If you’re considering other top public universities, here’s what you need to know:

• #1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Known for outstanding film, performing arts, and medical research programs, UCLA offers students access to top industry connections.
• #2. University of California, Berkeley. A leader in engineering, computer science, and social activism, Berkeley is known for its rigorous academics and strong history of student advocacy.
• #3. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. UMichigan is renowned for its business and engineering programs and combines academic excellence with a spirited campus culture.
• #4. University of Virginia. Home to the prestigious McIntire School of Commerce, UVA is known for its rigorous academic environment and leadership development.
• #5. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Strong in journalism, business, and athletics, UNC is one of the oldest public universities in the U.S. 
• #6. University of California, San Diego (UCSD). Excelling in oceanography and biomedical research, UCSD offers students state-of-the-art facilities for hands-on learning.
• #7 (tie). University of Florida. A hub for innovation, technology, and athletics, UF offers strong programs in business and engineering. Its entrepreneurial culture encourages students to develop groundbreaking ideas and businesses.
• #7 (tie). The University of Texas at Austin. Known for its strong business, engineering, and arts programs, UT Austin provides students with a thriving job market.
• #9 (tie). Georgia Institute of Technology. One of the best engineering schools, Georgia Tech specializes in aerospace and computing. 
• #9 (tie). University of California, Davis. A leader in agriculture, veterinary science, and environmental studies, UC Davis is dedicated to sustainability and scientific research.
• #9 (tie). University of California, Irvine. Known for its healthcare-related fields and business programs, UC Irvine has strong ties to the medical and tech industries and offers students excellent research and career opportunities.

Times Higher Education Rankings

Times Higher Education ranks universities worldwide based on research quality, teaching, and global influence. UIUC ranks #46 globally for 2025, proving its strength in academics, research, and industry connections. If you’re considering UIUC, its strong scores show it’s a leader in research, industry partnerships, and academic excellence.

Here’s a look at how UIUC performs in different categories:

With a Research Quality score of 84.1, you’ll learn from professors leading groundbreaking discoveries. And thanks to an Industry score of 86.7, UIUC partners with top companies, giving you access to internships, projects, and job opportunities.

Here are a few ways UIUC is making an impact:

• National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA).  If you’re into AI, big data, or cybersecurity, UIUC’s NCSA is a hub for cutting-edge research, working with NASA, IBM, and the U.S. government. The center develops advanced computing technologies that power everything from space exploration to medical breakthroughs.
• Grainger College of Engineering. Ranked among the best in the country, this college is home to major innovations in robotics, renewable energy, and biomedical engineering. Faculty and students work on real-world solutions, from self-driving cars to sustainable energy systems. 
• Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center (IQUIST). If quantum computing excites you, UIUC is at the forefront, exploring next-gen computing technologies that could revolutionize the world. Researchers here are working on breakthroughs that could lead to ultra-secure communication and unprecedented computing power.

QS World University Rankings

QS World University Rankings focus on academic reputation, research impact, and how well graduates perform in the job market. UIUC’s #69 (tie) ranking globally shows it stands out among top universities worldwide. With a strong employer reputation and research networks, you’ll learn in a place where innovation meets real-world success.

Here’s a breakdown of UIUC’s QS rankings:

UIUC’s global reputation makes it a leader in research and innovation. Its strong employer connections help graduates land jobs at major companies, making it a great place to launch your career.

With a vast international research network, you’ll have opportunities to collaborate on groundbreaking projects with institutions worldwide. For example:

• The Illinois Global Institute. UIUC’s commitment to global research is reflected in the Illinois Global Institute, which supports international studies, cross-cultural collaborations, and research partnerships. From global development to cybersecurity, students can work on projects with worldwide impact and connect with top researchers from different countries.
• Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology. UIUC’s Beckman Institute is a world-class interdisciplinary research center where students and faculty tackle big challenges in neuroscience, bioengineering, and artificial intelligence.
• Research Park at UIUC. Home to over 120 companies and more than 2,000 employees, Research Park is a major innovation hub connecting students with startups and Fortune 500 firms. It hosts events like the AgTech Innovation Summit and the Research Park Career Fair, giving students access to industry leaders and cutting-edge technology. With EnterpriseWorks supporting over 350 startups and recent success stories like EarthSense and Boston Bioprocess, it’s the perfect place to gain hands-on experience and launch your career.

UIUC Application Process

If you’re interested in applying to UIUC, here’s what you need to know:

1. Gather your materials.

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. Grab a copy of your high school transcript, your ACT or SAT scores if you want to include them, and a credit card for the application fee. If you’re eligible for a fee waiver, have your school counselor submit the form.

2. Complete your application.

You’ll need to list your high school courses and grades exactly as they appear on your transcript. Be ready to choose a major (and a second choice) and answer a few writing prompts. Don’t forget to highlight your extracurricular activities, honors, and awards to help your application stand out.

Aim for a 3.9 GPA or higher, especially for competitive majors like engineering or computer science. If your GPA isn’t perfect, strong test scores, extracurriculars, and essays can help balance your application.

One key essay prompt asks: “Describe your personal and/or career goals after graduating from Illinois and how your selected first-choice major will help you achieve them.” To answer this, be clear about your future ambitions, whether it’s launching a tech startup, becoming a research scientist, or leading in business. 

Connect your major to specific UIUC resources, like research opportunities, internships, or faculty expertise, to show why Illinois is the perfect place for your goals. Joining competitions and programs like Regeneron ISEF and Clark Scholars Program can also help reinforce your passion and readiness for success.

3. Submit test scores (if you want).

UIUC allows you to include ACT or SAT scores, but you don’t have to. If you decide to submit them, aim for a strong score to make your application more competitive.

Most admitted students score between 1350-1510 on the SAT or 30-34 on the ACT, so if your scores fall in that range or higher, they could help showcase your academic strengths.

4. Pay the application fee.

Once ready to submit, you must pay the application fee of $50 for domestic students and $75 for international students. Your counselor must submit the required form if you qualify for a fee waiver. Your application isn’t complete until the fee or waiver is received.

5. Check for additional requirements.

Some programs, like art, music, theatre, and dance, have extra steps. If you’re applying to these majors, you may need to submit a portfolio or complete an audition. Make sure to review any additional requirements before you apply.

6. Track your application status.

After you submit your application, you can track its progress on myIllini. If you applied through the Common App and don’t have a myIllini account, UIUC will create one for you and send login instructions. Keep an eye on your portal for updates and admission decisions.

Other UIUC Rankings

From its diverse student body to its top rankings in Illinois and beyond, UIUC offers an amazing college experience that prepares you for success. Here’s how UIUC stands out and why it could be the perfect fit for you:

#1 most students of color among top-ranked Midwest universities

UIUC is known for its diverse and inclusive campus, ranking #1 for most students of color among top Midwest universities. With over 20,500 students of color, UIUC boasts more students of color than any other top-ranked Midwest university. The student body represents all 50 states and 123 countries.

Ranked #2 in Illinois

UIUC is ranked #2 in Illinois. While the University of Chicago holds the #1 spot with its elite academics and a low acceptance rate of 5%, UIUC stands out with a larger undergraduate enrollment of 35,564 students and a broader range of over 150 majors across 11 academic communities. UIUC is also particularly renowned for its strong emphasis on STEM and engineering programs.

#13 U.S. college town

UIUC is situated in Champaign-Urbana, ranked #13 among the best college towns in the U.S. This unique area combines urban amenities with expansive green spaces, providing an ideal environment for both study and leisure.

The community is known for its diverse culinary scene, hosting numerous restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes. Additionally, Champaign-Urbana boasts a lively arts and music scene. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How hard is it to get into UIUC?

Getting into UIUC is competitive, but you have a solid chance if you have strong grades and activities. The acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 is 42.4%, meaning a little less than half of the applicants got in. Your chances depend on your major; engineering and computer science are more competitive than other programs.

2. What GPA do you need for UIUC?

UIUC doesn’t have a strict GPA requirement, but most admitted students have a 3.9 GPA or higher. If you’re applying for a highly competitive major like engineering or computer science, you must be at the top of that range. Strong test scores, extracurriculars, and essays can help boost your application even if your GPA isn’t perfect.

3. Does UIUC give a lot of scholarships?

UIUC offers scholarships based on merit, financial need, or your major. Illinois residents may qualify for additional state-based financial aid. To improve your chances, submit your FAFSA early and check UIUC’s scholarship portal for opportunities.

4. What’s the graduation rate at UIUC?

The graduation rate at UIUC is an impressive 84.9%, meaning most students complete their degrees. If you’re thinking long-term, that’s a solid sign of strong academics and student support.

Takeaways

• UIUC is ranked #33 among National Universities and #9 among Top Public Schools, making it one of the best public colleges in the U.S., especially for engineering and technology programs.
• On the world stage, UIUC ranks #46 in Times Higher Education and #69 in QS World University Rankings, proving its strong research impact and international reputation.
• To apply, you’ll need your high school transcript, optional SAT/ACT scores, and a strong application essay, plus meeting specific program requirements for competitive majors like engineering.
• UIUC’s acceptance rate is 42.4%, so while it’s competitive, having strong grades, extracurriculars, and a compelling application can boost your chances of getting in.
• Want to get into UIUC? A college admissions expert can help you craft a compelling application highlighting your strengths and maximizing your chances of acceptance.