University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

UIUC dominates in STEM, with computer engineering (392 graduates), computer science (361), and molecular biology leading its most popular majors ([16]). The Grainger College of Engineering and Gies College of Business are crown jewels, but the university offers over 150 undergraduate programs ([15]) spanning arts (notably architecture) to agriculture ([13], [14]). Research permeates the experience—UIUC spends over $700M annually on R&D ([17])—and students praise the wealth of undergraduate research opportunities. The academic culture leans collaborative but intense, especially in technical fields where curves are common.

Life at UIUC revolves around three hubs: the sprawling quad, the bustling Green Street corridor, and the 1,600+ student organizations ([20], [22]). Greek life claims about 20% of students and drives much of the party scene ([21]), but alternatives abound—from acapella groups to the nation's largest student-run hackathon. Traditions run deep, from rubbing Lincoln's nose for luck to the 100-year-old Mom's Weekend ([20]). The campus feels self-contained but not isolated, with Champaign-Urbana offering coffee shops, concert venues, and a surprising diversity of global cuisine. As one Reddit user puts it: 'Good or bad depends totally on your ability to manage time and socialize' ([19]).

UIUC delivers strong ROI: 91% of graduates secure employment or continue education within six months ([25]), with median earnings of $36,427 one year out and $81,054 after a decade ([27], [29]). The 86% six-year graduation rate ([30]) outpaces national averages, rising to 93% for engineering majors. Nearly two-thirds of graduates pursue advanced degrees ([25]), benefiting from UIUC's pipeline to top graduate programs and corporate recruiters (especially in Chicago and the Bay Area). The Illini Success report shows 27% employed immediately, with tech, finance, and consulting as top sectors ([25]).

UIUC's net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. averages $14,272 after aid ([33]), with 43% of students receiving grants or scholarships ([35]). In-state tuition sits at $17,138 while out-of-state students pay $36,120 ([33]), though engineering and business majors face premium rates. The university meets 56% of demonstrated need on average ([31]), with the Illinois Commitment program covering tuition and fees for in-state families earning under $67,100. Prospective students should use the [official net price calculator](https://app.meadowfi.com/illinois) ([32])—aid packages often include work-study and loans alongside grants.

UIUC combines the heft of a top-5 engineering school ([17]) with the spirited community of a Big Ten campus. Its strengths are unmistakable: a top-ranked CS program that feeds Silicon Valley, groundbreaking research facilities like the National Center for Supercomputing Applications, and alumni networks that open doors from Chicago to Shanghai. Yet it retains a workmanlike Midwestern ethos—where undergrads can access billion-dollar labs but still bond over cornfield sunsets and legendary campus bars. For students seeking rigorous academics without Ivy League pretension (and at half the cost), UIUC delivers.