Students apply through the EngageU portal. Major tasks include uploading a copy of their passport and electing someone to serve as their recommender.

All international travelling students are required to enroll in U of I system health and safety insurance. Some programs may require additional insurance.

Program costs depend on the program type. Exchange & NSE programs charge UIS student tuition. Short-term programs fees, not including tuition start at about $3,500.

Yes, students may participate multiple times, provided they meet eligibility and academic requirements for each program.

The “best” time depends on the program requirements and program type. The first opportunity to study away is the summer after completing the entire freshman year (two semesters). Most students participate during their sophomore or junior year to ensure degree progress and academic flexibility.

Housing varies by program and may include university residence halls, host families, shared apartments, hotel rooms, or self-arranged housing. Each program brochure page will list more detailed information regarding housing.

Students are encouraged to start planning at least 6–9 months in advance to meet application, passport, and scholarship deadlines.

Yes, both transfer and international students can apply as long as they meet the program’s eligibility and GPA requirements.

No, most programs offer courses in English, though language skills can enhance your experience and immersion.

Yes, Study Away enhances your résumé, builds global connections, and may include internship or service-learning options.

Students are encouraged to present at campus events, share blogs, or participate in Study Away promotional activities.

UIS offers undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, certificate, and online degree programs across multiple disciplines.

Yes. UIS is institutionally accredited.

12.3:1

UIS offers student organizations, athletics, residence life, leadership opportunities, and campus events.

Yes. UIS offers a wide range of online undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

UIS combines personalized education, public university value, strong online learning, and professional preparation.

UIS is recognized for academic quality, affordability, and student support.
US News & World Report rankings:

• No. 1 public regional university in Illinois (2020-2025)
• No. 10 in top public school in the Midwest regional category (2025)
• No. 14 best college for veterans, Midwest regional category (2025)
• Top 50 best online bachelor’s programs in the U.S. (2026)

UIS welcomed the largest first-year class in university history in the fall of 2019.
The College of Business and Management is accredited by the AACSB, a distinction earned by less than 5% of business schools worldwide.
UIS alums comprise 30% of the college-educated workforce residing in Sangamon County.
UIS and its students and alumni add $943.2 million to the Illinois economy in fiscal year 2023.
UIS is recognized as a Rural-Serving Institution.

US News & World Report rankings:
No. 1 public regional university in Illinois (2020-2025)
No. 10 in top public school in the Midwest regional category (2025)
No. 14 best college for veterans, Midwest regional category (2025)
Top 50 best online bachelor’s programs in the U.S. (2026)

UIS supports military-connected students through veteran services and military education benefits.

UIS supports diversity, equity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ student resources.

UIS serves both residential and commuter students.

UIS offers academic, cultural, leadership, recreational, and service organizations.

Yes, UIS competes in NCAA Division II in men’s and women’s soccer, tennis, basketball, golf, cross country, track and field, softball, volleyball and baseball.

Springfield offers a lower cost of living, internships, government opportunities, and community activities.