Choosing the right college is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. At the University of Illinois Springfield, students consistently say they’ve found the perfect fit. Why? Because UIS offers more than just a degree. With personalized learning, a supportive and inclusive campus community, real-world experience and leadership opportunities that help you grow, UIS sets students up for success from day one.

But don’t just take our word for it. Hear directly from our students about why they love being a Prairie Star!

Choosing a college major can feel like a huge decision—one that feels like it determines the rest of your life. But here’s the truth: it doesn’t have to. Many students need extra time to explore their interests and decide to enroll as “undecided.”

Your college roommate can significantly impact your first-year experience. Your roommate is often one of the first people you meet on campus. They are also someone with whom you spend a lot of your time with. So, it’s important to put some effort into finding someone who works with your personality and lifestyle. Here's how to find the right fit at UIS.

Choosing the right university isn’t just about academics. It’s also about location. The University of Illinois Springfield offers a unique advantage for our students. We are home to a campus in the heart of Illinois that makes exploring some of the Midwest’s most exciting cities easy and convenient. For example, Chicago and St. Louis are just a few hours away.

Your Next Chapter Starts at UIS

You may not have started your college journey at UIS, but you can still earn a University of Illinois degree by transferring. UIS offers countless opportunities for academic growth, campus involvement and career advancement. 

If you’re looking for an experience beyond the classroom, studying abroad might just be the adventure you’re looking for. At the University of Illinois Springfield, our Study Away program allows you to step outside your comfort zone, immerse yourself in new cultures, make lifelong memories and develop skills that set you up for future success. 

Eager to know more about the benefits of studying abroad during your time at UIS? Check out how our students are benefiting from the Study Away program:

Figuring out how to pay for college can be challenging. But there are resources to help! The FAFSA, scholarships, grants and programs like the Prairie Promise can help make college more affordable. Students can significantly reduce their expenses by exploring financial aid options. Financial aid is available from the University of Illinois Springfield, federal and state programs, and outside private scholarships. First-year UIS student Evelyn Martinez explored all these options to become a Prairie Star. 

Time management is essential for efficiency and success and balancing productivity and relaxation. Knowing when to focus and when to rest can make a huge difference in overall well-being and productivity.

College is an investment, and understanding the full cost of college is important. When researching the cost of different colleges, most do a simple Google search and accept the first number that appears as the cost. The real cost varies depending on several factors: location, program, financial aid and scholarships.

We’re taking the mystery out of applying for college. Here are the key steps to go from interested to enrolled at UIS: