
The University of Illinois, originally named Illinois Industrial University, is a public university that was founded in 1867 in the city of Urbana. As of fall 2024, the university has a record-breaking total student enrollment of 59,238, including on-campus and online students. This number includes 37,140 undergraduates and 20,765 graduate students. The freshman class of 2024 has a total enrollment of 9,008 students, with 6,429 students from Illinois and 1,233 international students from 48 countries.
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The University of Illinois welcomed almost 60,000 students in 2024
The University of Illinois, originally named Illinois Industrial University, welcomed almost 60,000 students in 2024, setting a new record for student enrollment. The freshman class for the fall 2024 semester at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign had 9,008 students, with a total enrollment of 59,238, including on-campus and online students. This includes 37,140 undergraduates and 20,765 graduate students, with an additional 1,547 transfer students. The freshman class includes 6,429 students from Illinois, 1,346 students from other US states and territories, and 1,233 international students from 48 countries.
The University of Illinois has come a long way since its founding in 1867 when it opened its doors to 77 students in 1868. The university has a diverse and vibrant campus community, with a strong reputation for excellence and opportunity. It is consistently ranked highly, including being recognised as the #9 public and #33 overall university in the nation. The university also has a strong track record of enrolling students from underrepresented groups, with an increase in self-identified Hispanic, African American, Native American, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander students in recent years.
The University of Illinois offers a wide range of academic programmes and is known for its research and innovation. The PLATO system, developed at the university, was the first generalised computer-assisted instruction system, influencing modern multi-user computing. The university's preliminary undergraduate retention rate is an impressive 95%, and its six-year graduation rate is 85%, well above the national average for public universities. The university is committed to supporting its students in their academic and career pursuits, with 91% of graduates finding employment or enrolling in graduate programmes within six months of graduation.
The University of Illinois provides a holistic educational experience, fostering excellence both inside and outside the classroom. The campus is home to various resources and centres, such as the Prairie Research Institute, which houses several divisions focusing on research areas like agriculture, biodiversity, and public health. The Technology Entrepreneur Center, for example, offers students resources to develop their entrepreneurial ideas through classes and other support. The university also has a rich history in sports and extracurricular achievements, with notable alumni in baseball, entertainment, and game shows.
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There are over 35,000 undergraduates
The University of Illinois boasts an impressive student body, with a total undergraduate population of over 35,000. This large and diverse group of students forms the heart of the university's vibrant academic community. Spread across various schools and colleges, these undergraduates pursue a wide range of academic disciplines, reflecting the university's comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to higher education.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is one of the largest undergraduate divisions, offering a broad array of programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Other popular undergraduate colleges include the Grainger College of Engineering, known for its rigorous and innovative programs, and the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences, which attracts students interested in fields related to agriculture, sustainability, and environmental studies.
The university also boasts a strong business school, the Gies College of Business, which is consistently ranked among the best in the nation. Here, students can explore a variety of specializations, including finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the university's School of Social Work, College of Education, and College of Media attract students who aspire to make a difference in their respective fields.
Beyond its academic diversity, the undergraduate population at the University of Illinois is also notable for its cultural and geographical diversity. Students come from all over the United States and the world, bringing a rich tapestry of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to the campus. This diversity fosters a global mindset and encourages cross-cultural understanding, enriching the overall student experience.
The large undergraduate population also contributes to a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities catering to a wide range of interests. From academic societies to cultural groups, performing arts ensembles to athletic teams, there are countless opportunities for students to get involved, connect with peers, and pursue their passions outside the classroom. This vibrant campus community enhances the overall growth and development of the student body.
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Over 20,000 students are postgraduates
The University of Illinois has a total student population of over 59,000, including both on-campus and online students. Of these, over 20,000 are postgraduates. This figure represents a record number of graduate students for the university. The University of Illinois has a strong reputation for supporting students in their academic pursuits and career aspirations. The large number of graduate students reflects the university's success in attracting students to its graduate programs.
The University of Illinois offers a wide range of graduate programs across various disciplines, providing students with diverse academic opportunities. The university's graduate programs are known for their academic excellence and are highly regarded in their respective fields. Many of the graduate programs are ranked among the best in the nation, offering students a high-quality education and valuable credentials. The university's research capabilities and resources also attract graduate students seeking to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in their areas of interest.
The University of Illinois has a strong track record of not only enrolling graduate students but also ensuring their academic progress and success. The university provides comprehensive support services, resources, and mentorship opportunities to help graduate students excel in their studies and research endeavours. This commitment to graduate student development contributes to the university's appeal for students seeking advanced degrees.
Additionally, the University of Illinois boasts a vibrant and diverse campus community, which is enhanced by the presence of a substantial graduate student population. Graduate students bring a wealth of knowledge, experiences, and perspectives to the campus, enriching the academic and social environment for all students. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion further enhances the campus experience, fostering a sense of belonging and creating a supportive community for graduate students from a variety of backgrounds.
The large number of graduate students at the University of Illinois also contributes to the intellectual discourse and collaborative opportunities on campus. Graduate students often engage in research, academic projects, and extracurricular activities, driving innovation and knowledge creation across various fields. The university provides resources and platforms that facilitate collaboration among graduate students, fostering a dynamic and stimulating academic environment.
The University of Illinois' record number of graduate students reflects its success in providing high-quality graduate education and its appeal as a destination for students seeking advanced degrees. With over 20,000 postgraduates, the university offers a rich academic environment that fosters intellectual growth, diversity, and a strong sense of community.
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22% of first-year students are first-generation college students
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign welcomed a record-breaking freshman class for the fall 2024 semester, with a total enrollment of 9,008 first-year students. This includes 6,429 students from Illinois, 1,346 from other U.S. states, and 1,233 international students. Notably, 22% of these first-year students are first-generation college students, indicating that neither of their parents has obtained a four-year college degree. This percentage is even higher in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS), where 24.4% of first-year students are first-generation.
First-generation students face unique challenges in the college application and enrollment process, often having to navigate the complex process independently. The University of Illinois recognizes these challenges and provides resources specifically for first-generation students, such as a dedicated website, a guide to university life, and a directory to connect with first-generation mentors. These initiatives empower first-generation students and help them succeed in their educational journey.
The University of Illinois has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting first-generation students and ensuring their success. With a significant proportion of first-year students being the first in their families to pursue higher education, the university's efforts are crucial in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. This commitment is reflected in the university's impressive retention and graduation rates, which exceed national averages for public universities.
In addition to its focus on first-generation students, the University of Illinois prioritizes diversity and representation. The freshman class of 2024 includes 22% of students from underrepresented groups, showcasing the university's dedication to creating a student body that reflects the diverse world we live in. This commitment to diversity extends beyond racial and ethnic representation, with the university also offering financial hardship fee waivers to ensure that students from all backgrounds have access to higher education.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's record-breaking enrollment in 2024, with a significant proportion of first-generation students, underscores its reputation as a welcoming and inclusive institution. The university's dedication to supporting first-generation and underrepresented students is evident in its resources, programs, and initiatives. As Provost John Coleman stated, "Illinois is a special place to learn, grow, explore and succeed — a place full of opportunity."
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The university welcomed 7,425 new postgraduates in 2024
The University of Illinois, originally named Illinois Industrial University, has welcomed its largest class in university history, with a total student enrollment of 59,238 in the fall of 2024. This includes 37,140 undergraduates and a record number of 20,765 graduate students. Of these, 7,425 are new postgraduates, an 18% increase over the previous year. The University of Illinois has come a long way since its inception in 1868 with just 77 students.
The freshman class of 2024 includes 6,429 students from Illinois, accounting for 71% of the class. The remaining students come from other states and territories, with 1,346 students, and 1,233 international students from 48 countries. The freshman enrollment stands at 9,008, with a notable increase in the number of students from underrepresented groups. This year, 1,434 students self-identify as Hispanic, 594 as African American, 122 as Native American/Alaska Native, and 28 as Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander. The University of Illinois is committed to diversity and providing opportunities for students from all backgrounds.
The University of Illinois has a strong reputation for academic excellence and has produced many notable alumni. The university is also known for its research capabilities, with the Prairie Research Institute focusing on areas such as agriculture, biodiversity, and public health. The university's retention and graduation rates are impressive, with a 95% undergraduate retention rate and an 85% six-year graduation rate, both well above the national average for public universities.
The University of Illinois has a rich history and has made significant contributions to various fields. It was one of the first universities to offer a certificate in architecture, with Nathan C. Ricker becoming the first person in the United States to graduate with this qualification in 1873. The university also has a strong track record in sports, with notable alumni including baseball pitcher Ken Holtzman and WWE Tag Team Champion David Otunga. In recent years, the university has also gained recognition for its diverse student body and commitment to social issues, receiving the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award for 10 out of the past 11 years.
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Frequently asked questions
As of fall 2024, there is a record-breaking total of 59,238 students enrolled at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
There are 37,140 undergraduate students enrolled at the University as of fall 2024.
There is a record number of 20,765 graduate students enrolled at the University as of fall 2024.
There are 9,008 freshmen enrolled at the University as of fall 2024.
In spring 2018, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign had 45,813 students enrolled.










































