You Are Here:

International Freshman FAQ

1. Can I apply online?
• Yes! Click here to Apply online.
2. When do I apply for admission?
• Application deadlines can be found on our dates and deadlines page.
3. Once I submit my application, how soon will I be notified?
• Notification dates are listed on our dates and deadlines page.
4. What items are needed for my application to be complete?
• The following documents are needed in order for your application to be complete: (1) completed and signed application, (2) $50 (US) application fee, (3) all official transcripts (with courses in progress), (4) signed financial verification form and current and original bank letters, (5) official test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, and/or ACT/SAT), and (6) application essays.
5. Do you require the completion of ACT or SAT I? What about the SAT II?
• Yes, all freshman applicants must complete either the ACT or SAT I. The University does not use SAT II scores.
6. If I have attended an institution in the US, is TOEFL required?
• You need to have completed a minimum of two academic years of full-time study at the secondary or collegiate level in the US (also United Kingdom, Australia and most of Canada) immediately prior to desired term of entry, in order to be exempt from the TOEFL requirement. The TOEFL requirement may also be waived with a 560 or higher critical reading score on the SAT I (ACT English score 25 or higher).
• Illinois also accepts the IELTS to determine English proficiency. Minimum total score for admission: 6.5, including a minimum subscore of 6 on all four modules.
7. Are letters of recommendation required?
• Letters of recommendation are strongly discouraged, as they are not used in the evaluation process. Please do not send them. Also, please do not send copies of certificates of achievement, resumes, or other materials that are not required. Doing so can greatly increase the amount of paperwork in the office and sometimes can even delay the review of the application.
8. May the application fee be waived or deferred?
• No, we will not process the application without the $50 (US) application fee for international applications.
9. Do I need to submit financial verification papers with the application?
• Yes. For students requesting the F-1 or J-1 student visa, the financial verification form and documentation should be included with the application materials; however, if the financial verification form and bank statement need to be signed and sent from sponsors/parents overseas, these items may follow the application materials. Please note that if you are admitted, a delay in sending these documents to us will mean a delay in sending your immigration paperwork to you. For more information, visit the International Student requirements page.
10. I am currently an international student on visa. However, I will have permanent resident alien status at the beginning of the term. Do I apply as an international student now?
    • Yes, you should complete the international undergraduate application at this time. When you receive your "green card," send us a copy and we will change your status within our system. For more information regarding residency classification, click here.
11. How can I get more information about the visa process?
    • Please review our visa information for international undergraduate students.
12. How do I obtain the Programs of Study or Courses catalogs?
• The Course Catalog and Programs of Study are available online.

FAQ

• Admitted
• Counselors
• Freshman - General
• Home Schooled Applicants
• International Freshman
• International Transfer
• Transfer
• Visiting Campus