The Value of an Illinois Education
A combination of affordability, strong outcomes, and a world-renowned legacy.
Illinois is a 5★ university for combining quality and affordability, according to Money.
That means you get a high-quality education at a cost that makes sense.
Estimate Your CostWhat Sets Us Apart
Illinois is a large, diverse campus, known for excellence and opportunity, where our students and faculty do important work across every field.
Strong Academic Programs
Illinois offers hundreds of majors, including many top‑ranked academic programs in the nation.
Here, you can find a path that fits your goals and expands your options.
Explore MajorsResearch You Can Join Early
Take part in research starting from your first year.
Work with leading faculty, explore labs and studios, or get involved at Research Park.
Undergraduate Research Research ParkAward-Winning Faculty Who Care
Our professors are renowned in their fields and constantly finding new ways to innovate through their teaching and research.
That passion and expertise extend into the classroom where they’re always ready and willing to help you succeed.
Illini Success
Whether you want to work on campus or with a Fortune 500 company, Illinois opens opportunities both before and after graduation.
- 96 Fortune 100 companies recruit Illinois students
- 93% of graduates are employed or continuing their education within six months
- 500,000+ living alumni excited to help you make connections after graduation
We Stay on Track
95% of Illinois students return for their second year.
At other public universities, the average is 78%.
We Finish Strong
86% of Illinois students graduate within six years.
At other public universities, the average is 64%.
Sources: National Student Clearinghouse and National Center for Education Statistics
Is College Worth the Cost?
College helps you grow and prepares you for what comes next.
You discover who you are, build confidence, and gain skills that lead to better job options, higher pay over time, and more stability after graduation.
More Education Means Better Jobs and Higher Pay
| Education Level | Median Weekly Earning | Unemployment Rate |
| Doctoral | $2,278 | 1.2% |
| Professional | $2,363 | 1.3% |
| Master’s | $1,840 | 2.2% |
| Bachelor’s | $1,543 | 2.5% |
| Associate’s | $1,099 | 2.8% |
| Some College, No Degree | $1,020 | 3.8% |
| High School Diploma | $930 | 4.2% |
| Less than a High School Diploma | $738 | 6.2% |
| Average | $1,221 | 3.3% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics