Access and Affordability
A high-quality education shouldn’t be out of reach. At the University of Illinois System, we’re committed to making our three best-in-class universities accessible and affordable for driven students. We offer a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers, to help keep costs down. In fact, our universities consistently rank among the “best value” public institutions in the nation.
We’re also dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Our support programs and resources are designed to help students from all backgrounds, especially those from historically underrepresented groups, achieve their academic goals. We believe an education from a U of I System university is the key to a brighter future.
Fast Facts
- 32% of our undergraduate students identify as members of underrepresented minority groups, reflecting our commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
- 79% of undergraduates at U of I System universities are Illinois residents.
- U of I System financial aid has increased nearly 60% over the last decade.
- Over half of Illinois public university students attend one of the U of I System universities.
- Almost 60% of our undergraduates pay less than full tuition and fees.
- We have students from every county in the state.
- 37% of undergraduate, in-state students have tuition and fees fully covered.
- We have 21,000+ Pell Grant recipients annually.
- Graduates of our universities have lower debt than the national average.
See financial aid data
Programs & Initiatives
Across our system, we’re developing and nurturing programs that make a U of I System education accessible and attainable for all learners. Our commitment to providing multiple pathways to success ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to achieve their academic goals.
See the latest stories about how we are widening doors of opportunity:
Read more stories
Admissions Offices
First-year undergraduate students can now apply to all three of our universities through the Common App. Please visit the admissions websites for specific requirements and procedures for each university.
Financial Aid Offices