123
countries represented on campus
50
U.S. states represented on campus
Diversity & Inclusion
We strive to foster an environment defined by diversity, inclusion, and openness. With new ideas, experiences, and perspectives constantly available to you, our campus provides a space in which all students can succeed on their terms.
#1
most students of color
among top-ranked midwest universities (NCES)
Cultural Houses
Open to all students, our cultural houses help you celebrate your own heritage and give you a better appreciation for other ways of life.
Meet Our Students
Every Illini has a journey. These are their stories.
Jonathan
Building a network of peers, connecting with mentors, and inclusive programs at Illinois helped first-gen student Jonathan achieve his dream career as a Boeing Engineer.
Angela
From cultural and academic student organizations to biology research labs, Angela has never missed an opportunity to get involved on campus during her journey to medical school!
Devon
Future educator and resident advisor for University Housing, Devon is following in her father's footsteps to become an advocate for the next generation.
Resource Centers
Our resource centers work to foster an environment that's open, safe, and inclusive for people of all backgrounds and identities, and they offer opportunities for you to network and build support systems on campus.
Academic Support
The Jeffries Center supports the academic achievement, personal development, and graduation rates of first-generation, low-income, and historically underrepresented students at Illinois.
What do Illini have to say about The Jeffries Center? Read about two students' experiences.
Cultural Student Groups
We offer nearly 100 student groups related to culture and diversity, and you can explore them all before arriving on campus. Don't see what you're looking for? You can always create your own group as an Illini, too!
Additional Resources
- Disability Resources & Educational Services (DRES)
- Inclusive Illinois Events Calendar
- Inclusion in Housing
- International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS)
- Office for Access & Equity (OAE)
- Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations (OIIR)
- Office of the Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Diversity Programs
Seniors from the city of Chicago and other high schools in the Chicago area are invited to Multicultural Academic Achievement Receptions, where they're recognized for their academic achievements. We provide them with information about the college search process and encourage them to consider applying to Illinois. One of the receptions we offer is bilingual in nature (English and Spanish). We also host a Multicultural Academic Achievement Reception in Champaign for local students and their families.
Admitted students from EOP schools in the Chicago area and their families are invited to attend one of our Next-Up receptions. Attendees learn about the dynamic opportunities offered at Illinois through presentations and dinner conversations with staff, current students, and alumni. One of the receptions we offer is bilingual in nature (English and Spanish).
This day-long campus program is for President's Award Scholarship recipients and their families. It includes a reception, meetings with our colleges, a current student panel, informational sessions on student resources, and a residence hall lunch and tour. Transportation is provided from Chicago.