The University of Illinois Springfield emphasizes liberal arts and a broad engagement in public affairs issues. UIS has been consistently ranked among the top 15 regional public universities in the Midwest for over a decade. UIS is also among its Best Value Schools and provides a uniquely student-centered educational experience both in and out of the classroom through active learning, meaningful research and impactful civic engagement that prepares graduates to contribute fully to society. UIS is a diverse campus community that includes a mix of traditional freshmen, full/part-time adult, graduate, online & transfer students. Nearly 30% of students are of color & nearly 10% are international; welcoming students from 45 nations.
No. 1 public regional university in Illinois
No. 4 public regional university in the Midwest
No. 6 regional university in Illinois
Top 20% of performers on Social Mobility
Top 25% of regional universities in the Midwest
4,146
$19,118
Required
Required
Neither required nor recommended
Involvement in campus organizations is an important part of your complete educational experience at UIS.
Student organizations offer social, service, and professional opportunities for their members within the university and community. Membership can broaden acquaintances, develop leadership ability, build decision-making and problem-solving skills, and complement classroom instruction.
UIS Star Map Goals
Self-Awareness: Students will be able to identify and comprehend their emotions, interests and abilities as they cultivate a sense of self-worth and acknowledge the worth of others.
Connections: Students will understand meaningful connections as the foundation for their continued development.
Inclusion: Students will understand inclusion as both being socially aware and globally focused.
Leadership: Students will understand leadership as both taking action and creating a legacy.
Cultural and Educational Events
International students at USI make new friends through activities, clubs, and organizations on campus. Explore some of the many ways in which you can get involved on campus. Click here to read about the 100 things to do in Springfield
Outdoor Adventures with TRAC
The Recreational and Athletic Center (TRAC) is offering outdoor adventures throughout the Fall 2021 semester. These are amazing opportunities for all UIS students to enjoy the beauty and fun that nature in the US has to offer.
UIS International Festivals and Holidays
Every year, hundreds of campus and community members have met for an international meal, programs, and exhibits. This event is made possible through the work of volunteers, who spent hours working as masters of ceremony, setting up the stage, greeting guests at the door, and cleaning up afterward. This year we were unable to celebrate our annual International Festival due to COVID-19. We hope to continue our annual International Festival next Fall 2021. Check out some of the UIS international festivals and holidays UIS celebrates below!
Cultural and Religious Observances
Holiday Resources
International Festivals
International Education Week
International Student Associations
International Student Ambassadors
Qualifying scores must have been obtained within the last 2 years, the only exception is for applicants that submit scores for a test taken more than 2 years ago is if the student has been continuously studying at a college or university within the U.S.
TOEFL iBT/PBT: UG 61/500, Grad 79/550
IELTS: UG 5.0, Grad 6.0
PTE: UG 50, Grad 65
iTEP: UG 4.0, Grad 4.5
ELS: Level 112
UIS also waives the English Proficiency Requirement for qualifying coursework and experience as well. Reach out for more information
The Office of International Student Services (ISS) is dedicated to the highest standards of excellence and best professional practices in the field of International Student Advising.
ISS provides the support and assistance necessary for international students to achieve their educational goals and to ensure institutional compliance with government immigration regulations. It provides the documents required for international students to obtain and maintain their legal status.
Home Country: Vietnam
Major: Business Administration '21
Future Plans: Earn a master’s and doctorate degree in business
Quynh (Selina) Tran chose the University of Illinois Springfield “because of its friendly environment and affordable tuition for international students.” On-campus, she works as an international student ambassador for the Office of International Student Services. In that role, she helps other international students adjust to life at UIS. She enjoys attending UIS because “almost all professors are willing to help and answer students’ questions.” She also enjoys UIS’ outdoor activities, such as kayaking, skating and horseback riding trips. Following graduation from UIS, she plans to earn a master’s and doctorate degree in business. “I dream that I can work for international corporations and travel to different countries while working,” she said. “I love learning about new cultures and working styles.”
Leadership is lived at UIS. Every day.
First-time freshmen with a GPA of at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) may qualify for Lincoln or Capital Scholars Merit Scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $10,000. In addition, the honors program offers 5 full tuition and housing awards to winners of a competition. Complete the form at the top of the page to learn more!
Many international students choose to come to the US and pursue part of their bachelor degree at a US community college. UIS has a long history of helping students transfer their coursework and we look forward to helping you transfer your courses from your home country or from another US institution.
Current transfer agreements with international institutions:
Dalian University of Foreign Languages
University of Danang
Ho Chi Minh University
Kunjang International Institute