Difficulty of Admissions at the University of Illinois

Hey everyone, I'm currently a junior and I'm really interested in applying to the University of Illinois. I've heard rumors that some colleges within this university are super hard to get into. Wondering if anyone has experience or knowledge about which colleges are the toughest for admission there?

Yes, you are correct. The University of Illinois is broken down into several colleges, and the admissions selectivity varies greatly among them. For example, the Gies College of Business and the Grainger College of Engineering are often considered among the most competitive within the university.

The Grainger College of Engineering is highly sought-after due to its strong national ranking and extensive research opportunities. Moreover, the Computer Science and Electrical Engineering programs are particularly selective, often attracting high-achieving students.

Similarly, the Gies College of Business is a highly-regarded business school with well-established programs such as Accounting and Finance. This also contributes to its competitive admission process.

Keep in mind that admissions can vary year to year and are based on multiple factors, such as the strength of the applicant pool, the number of available spaces, and the strategic goals of the university. It's important to note that even within competitive programs, there are still many opportunities for admitted students to thrive and engage with their field on a deep level. Despite the level of competitiveness, I would encourage you to apply if you are truly interested in these programs.

Remember, UIUC takes into account academic accomplishments but also values experiences and qualities such as leadership, motivation, and character. So, make your application stand out by highlighting your strengths, experiences, and talents, but also, demonstrate your interest in your chosen field of study, and contribute to the campus community. It's not entirely about test scores and GPA—your essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars matter too. Good luck with your application process.