Best universities to apply to in Illinois?

I'm considering staying in-state for college and am looking for some of the best universities in Illinois. Whether it's for academics, campus life, or extracurriculars, which universities should I have on my radar?

Absolutely! Illinois houses some excellent universities with a range of strengths and offerings.

Firstly, the University of Chicago stands out as a top-tier institution known for its rigorous academics and globally distinguished faculty. It's one of the best in the world for economics, but has strong programs across the board, from humanities to STEM. Despite its urban location, the UChicago campus also has a collegiate feel and a host of student organizations for extracurricular engagement.

Northwestern University, located in Evanston, also provides high-quality education and is renowned for its School of Communication, Kellogg School of Management, and Medill School of Journalism. Its location near Lake Michigan and its proximity to downtown Chicago offer a great balance of campus life and city access.

The University of Illinois system (both Urbana-Champaign and Chicago campuses) is well-regarded too. UIUC is particularly known for its top-ranked engineering and business programs, and UIC is a good choice, especially for health and medical-related fields.

Loyola University Chicago is another worthy contender. It's a Jesuit university known for its programs in health sciences, law, business, and social work. Loyola’s beautiful location along Lake Michigan and closeness to downtown Chicago presents plenty of opportunities for students to explore.

Depaul University, particularly recognized for its programs in business, communication and media, offers its students opportunities afforded by a large city, including internships, extracurriculars, and cultural diversity.

Lastly, consider Illinois Institute of Technology, especially if you're looking into engineering, architecture, or technology-related fields. It's located in downtown Chicago, providing plenty of opportunities to engage with the professional world.

All of these universities have different strengths, so consider what you're aiming to major in and what type of campus experience you want when choosing between them.