Various Updates

  • Admissions Processing: The Office of Admissions Processing is responsible for functions related to application processing and review, course credit evaluation, credential processing, and transfer agreements.
    • Processing: After the start of the Fall 2024 semester, we process on average 80 applications a week through the end of December.
    • Evaluations: After the start of the Fall 2024 semester, we typically evaluate an average of 158 first year, 7 transfer and 170 graduate applications per week through the end of December.
    • Transfer Agreements: We have attended several transfer exploration nights with the U of I System, UIC, and UIUC in partnership with area high schools and corresponding district community colleges in an attempt to reach students earlier. We continue to work on building more equivalent courses with all of the Illinois community colleges and we’ve started meeting with program chairs to discuss ways we can partner together to improve the UIS transfer experience. 
        
  • Admissions Recruitment: Admission offices are often seen as gatekeepers, standing between applicants and their academic goals. But what happens after that acceptance letter lands in a student's inbox? The yield work begins, a crucial yet sometimes overlooked aspect of the higher education journey.
    • What is yield?  
      Yield work is a complex and nuanced endeavor, but its rewards are substantial. By understanding the factors that influence student choice and implementing effective strategies, we can cultivate a thriving and engaged student body, setting the stage for a successful academic journey. Yield, in admissions terms, refers to the percentage of admitted students who choose to enroll at a particular university. A high yield means that more students are choosing our institution over others, signifying a strong academic reputation, vibrant campus life, and effective recruitment strategies.
    • Why is yield work important?
      A healthy yield isn't just a vanity metric. It has tangible benefits for the university and student:
      • For the university: A higher yield ensures a full incoming class, leading to financial stability, optimal class sizes, and a diverse and engaged student body.
      • For the student: A well-managed yield process helps students make informed decisions, find the right academic fit, and feel confident about their chosen path.
    • The Art of Yielding: Strategies for Success
      So, how do we cultivate commitment and entice admitted students to choose UIS over other options? Here are some key strategies:
      • Financial aid optimization: Offering competitive scholarships and need-based aid packages significantly impacts a student's decision.
      • Showcasing the experience: Virtual tours, interactive webinars, and personalized campus visits bring the university to life, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.
      • Building relationships: Prompt communication, dedicated advisors, and personalized outreach make students feel valued and supported throughout the enrollment process.
      • Harnessing the power of community: Connecting admitted students with current students, alumni, and faculty mentors creates a sense of belonging and excitement for the future.
    • Call to Action - what can YOU do?
      • Call admitted students to put a personal touch on what your program offers and the care you have for them.
      • Connect admitted students to current students.
      • Current student stories: Do you have a current student who would give a quote, testimonial, or do a video with admission.
      • Provide an email that admission can send to parents. Remember, successful yield isn't just about filling seats; it's about creating a community where students can thrive and reach their full potential. 
         
  • Financial Assistance: Approximately 80 percent of UIS undergraduate students receive financial aid through scholarships, grants, loans, and/or student employment. We are ready to help you apply for and receive assistance to fund your education.

    FAFSA Simplification 2024-25 Information
    The 2024-25 revamped, simplified Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) was launched by Federal Student Aid (FSA) on December 31, 2023. This is almost three months later than the normal launch data of October 1. Since this was a brand-new application, FSA called it a “soft launch,” with plenty of downtime and maintenance. If you would like to learn more about the new FAFSA and the related changes, please see the Campus Partners Brief provided by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA). 

    We encourage students and families to apply as soon as possible. At this time, the application should be available for students 24/7. Visit the 2024-25 FAFSA Issue Alerts website for details on known issues.  Our timeline for processing applications and providing aid offers to students for 2024-25 has been considerably impacted and delayed. We will do our very best to provide students with information as soon as we can; however, we must ensure that we are providing accurate information. Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation. 
     
  • Records and Registration: The Office of Records and Registration (also known as the Office of the Registrar) has a number of updates per area.
    • Catalog/Scheduling: The 2024-25 UIS Catalog is now available on the Course Schedules and Catalogs website.
    • Degree Audits: Working with the Office of Admissions Processing to continue the efforts on improving course-to-course articulations and transferability for incoming students.
    • Registration: Registration for Spring 2025 begins in November. November 4 for Priority registration and November 11 for new students. Please encourage students to register as soon as possible before classes fill up or get canceled due to a lack of enrollment.
    • Tuition/Fees: Tuition, fee, and assessment amounts for Fall 2024 are available on the Tuition and Fees website. The tuition calculator has been revamped to include complete cost of attendance information.
    • Graduation: Students graduating in Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 should watch for important email communications (including application deadlines) from the Registrar.