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Freshman FAQ

1. When do I apply for admission?
   • Application deadlines can be found on our dates and deadlines page
2. Once I submit my application, how soon will I be notified?
   • Notification dates are listed on our dates and deadlines page.
3. How does my application fee effect my application status?
   • An application will be considered incomplete and will not be processed until an application fee or an authorized fee waiver has been received. If you choose "pay later", a check or money order made out to the University of Illinois will need to be sent directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, accompanied by a letter stating the applicant's name as it appears on the application, date of birth, and an explanation that it is the application fee. Payment via credit card is only available at the time of application submission.
4. When will I know if I will be considered for priority filing?
   • To apply during the Priority Filing Period, a complete application must be submitted online by midnight Central time on November 1, or if applying by paper, postmarked by Novermber 2. All supporting documents must be received or postmarked by November 1, 2009. Applications will be designated as received during the Priority Filing Period once the entire application file has been completed and processed. Please allow 1-2 weeks for processing time. After that time, the Admission Type listed on your Check Application Status website will change from Regular Admission to Priority Admission.
5. What ACT/SAT or class rank do I need to be admitted?
   • There is no set ACT/SAT score or class rank to be admitted. We evaluate students based upon a combination of coursework, test scores, class rank, professional statement, and personal statement. For the middle 50 percent of ACT/SAT scores and class rank for admitted students, see admission requirements.
6. Do you consider the competitiveness of my high school?
• Students who have had the advantage of attending an academically competitive high school are often better prepared for the national exams such as ACT or SAT. This is why we use strength of academic curriculum, rigor and performance, test scores, and application essays in the application process. The combination of such criteria allows us to view the complete package for each student.
7. Is the University requiring the writing portion of the ACT?
   • Yes, it is required for at least one sitting of the ACT.
8. Do you accept letters of recommendation or other additional materials (e.g., DVD's, portfolios, pictures, essays, etc.)?
   • No, we do not accept letters of recommendation. Unsolicited materials, including letters of recommendation, will be removed from the file and discarded before the application is reviewed. An audition, portfolio, or interview may be required for Fine and Applied Arts applicants. Please see our freshman application tips and checklist for more details.
9. Do you accept test scores by rush paper report from the testing agency?
   • No. We currently consider test scores sent electronically from the testing agency (preferred method). Test scores listed on an official high school transcript or the student's test score report sent with the application and/or transcript as official scores will only be accepted as official for 2010 admission. Starting with 2011 admission, only scores sent directly from the testing center will be considered as official.
10. What percentage of undergraduates are from out-of-state?
    • Approximately 13 percent of our undergraduates are nonresidents. Out-of-state students are evaluated against the same criteria used for in-state students.
11. What percentage of students graduate in four years?
• We follow the federal Student Right to Know Act, which measures the six-year completion or graduation rate for full-time students. Find out our graduation rate on the reputation, retention, and graduation rates page.
12. How large are freshman classes?
    • Only six percent of 100-level courses are larger than 100 students. Most large lecture courses have a small discussion, quiz or lab section. Some of the large lecture courses are large due to an outstanding faculty member or being an interesting general education requirement option.
13. What percentage of courses are taught by teaching assistants?
    • Approximately 25-30 percent of all undergraduate courses are taught by graduate students, many of whom are in the last phase of doctoral studies. Many faculty are involved in teaching along with research and bring a combination of both experiences to the classroom. Teaching assistants provide another opportunity for new ideas to be shared in the classroom, small group discussion or office hours.
14. Is it safe on campus?
• Students feel very comfortable on our campus. We educate students in crime prevention and take a proactive stance toward a secure campus. We have a University Police Department that works with both the Champaign and Urbana Police Departments. Emergency phones are located throughout campus along with escort services and evening ride programs. Residence halls may be entered after 7:00 p.m. only by residents with keys.
15. How do I obtain a catalog?
• The Programs of Study and Courses Catalog are available online.
16. Can I appeal my admission decision?
    • If you wish to appeal your admission decision, please print and complete the Appeal of Admission Decision form. Request for reconsideration should only be submitted if new and compelling information that is relevant to the admissions criteria not on the original application is available. Requests must be made by the applicant. The Admissions Committee will not consider seventh or eighth semester grades, new extra-curricular activities or awards, ACT or SAT test scores submitted after January 12, or letters of recommendation.  The Admissions Committee decision made on your appeal is final. The deadlines for reconsideration are May 1 for incoming freshmen; June 1 for incoming transfers for the Fall semester; and January 2 for incoming transfers for the Spring semester. The form must be mailed or faxed to our office at the address or fax number provided on the form.

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