Is the computer science program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as competitive as everyone says? I'd love to hear about admission requirements and how strong their program is.
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The computer science program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ranks among the top 5 computer science programs in the United States, making it extremely competitive for admission. Acceptance rates for UIUC's CS program typically hover around 15%, with admitted students usually having exceptional academic credentials, including high GPAs (often 3.8+ unweighted) and strong standardized test scores when submitted.
UIUC's CS department stands out for its rigorous curriculum and world-class research opportunities. The program is particularly renowned for its expertise in artificial intelligence, systems, and theoretical computer science. As a student, you'll have access to cutting-edge facilities and research labs, with many undergraduates participating in research projects as early as their sophomore year.
To be competitive for admission, you should demonstrate strong performance in advanced mathematics courses, including calculus if available at your school. The admissions committee also values coding experience, whether through AP Computer Science, personal projects, or extracurricular activities. Your application should highlight leadership in technology-related clubs, participation in programming competitions, or independent coding projects.
Beyond academics, UIUC's CS program offers exceptional career opportunities. The university maintains strong connections with major tech companies, and many students secure internships at leading firms like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. The program's career fair specifically for CS students is one of the largest in the country, attracting hundreds of employers each year.
The challenging nature of admission reflects the program's quality and outcomes. CS graduates from UIUC often receive multiple job offers with competitive starting salaries, and many go on to prestigious graduate programs or launch successful tech startups. If you're considering applying, start preparing early and focus on building a strong foundation in math and computer science while developing a compelling personal narrative about your interest in the field.
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