Student Life & Universities in Illinois

Illinois has an exceptional higher education landscape, from Big Ten powerhouses to renowned private institutions. This guide covers what you need to know.

Major Public Universities

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Enrollment: 50,000+ Character: Premier research university, Big Ten athletics, strong STEM and business

The flagship of Illinois public higher education. Known for engineering, computer science, and business programs that rival Ivy League in their fields.

Campus Culture:

• Quintessential college town experience

• Passionate Illini athletics following

• Research opportunities abound

• Diverse student body from around the world

Cost Consideration:

• In-state tuition is a strong value

• Competitive merit scholarships available

University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)

Enrollment: 33,000+ Character: Urban research university, diverse, healthcare focus

Chicago's public research university offers urban campus life with strong healthcare and architecture programs.

Campus Culture:

• Commuter-friendly but housing available

• Medical campus is major asset

• Extremely diverse student body

• City is your campus

Illinois State University

Enrollment: 20,000+ Character: Teaching-focused, strong education programs

Located in Normal, ISU is known for excellent teacher preparation and a more personal academic experience.

Southern Illinois University

Enrollment: 12,000+ (Carbondale) Character: Research university, outdoor recreation access

Carbondale campus offers access to Shawnee National Forest and a different pace from northern schools.

Top Private Universities

Northwestern University

Location: Evanston Enrollment: 22,000

Elite private university on Lake Michigan. Top journalism, business, engineering, and performing arts programs.

What to Know:

• Highly selective admission

• Big Ten athletics with academic prestige

• Beautiful lakefront campus

• Strong Chicago connections

University of Chicago

Location: Hyde Park, Chicago Enrollment: 18,000

Intellectually rigorous, known for economics, law, and graduate programs.

What to Know:

• "Where fun goes to die" (joking reputation)

• Nobel laureate faculty

• Gothic campus architecture

• Serious academic culture

Loyola University Chicago

Location: Rogers Park, Chicago Enrollment: 17,000

Jesuit tradition, strong nursing and business programs.

DePaul University

Location: Lincoln Park & Loop, Chicago Enrollment: 22,000

Largest Catholic university in U.S., strong theater and business programs.

Community Colleges

Illinois has an excellent community college system:

• City Colleges of Chicago (7 campuses)

• Harper College (Palatine)

• College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn)

• Numerous others statewide

Benefits:

• Affordable path to 4-year degree

• Strong transfer agreements with universities

• Career and technical programs

• Accessible to working adults

Student Life Considerations

Housing

• Champaign-Urbana: Abundant, affordable off-campus options

• Chicago schools: City housing prices apply

• Smaller schools: Often more campus-centric

Transportation

• UIUC: Excellent campus bus system

• Chicago schools: CTA access

• Downstate: Car helpful but not always necessary

Cost Management

• In-state tuition at public schools is significant value

• Merit scholarships vary by school

• FAFSA essential for all students

• Work-study and campus jobs available

Choosing the Right Fit

Questions to Ask

1. What's the campus culture like?

2. How accessible are professors?

3. What are employment outcomes for graduates?

4. What's the surrounding community like?

5. How do students spend weekends?

Visit Campus

Nothing replaces an in-person visit. Attend classes, eat in dining halls, talk to current students.