The best universities in Illinois in 2026 include University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The state is home to 180+ higher education institutions. In-state tuition averages $14,000 – $18,000/year, while out-of-state students pay $32,000 – $40,000/year.
Illinois is a major center for higher education, home to world-class institutions like the University of Chicago and Northwestern University. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is the state’s flagship public university, renowned for engineering and computer science. Chicago provides unparalleled internship and career opportunities.
Illinois at a Glance
| Colleges & Universities | 180+ |
| State Capital | Springfield |
| Population | 12.6 million |
| Flagship University | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign |
| In-State Tuition (avg.) | $14,000 – $18,000/year |
| Out-of-State Tuition (avg.) | $32,000 – $40,000/year |
Source: Compiled from QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, and ARWU 2026 data.
What Are the Top Universities in Illinois for 2026?
| Rank | University | City | Type | Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Chicago | Chicago | Private | 18,000+ |
| 2 | Northwestern University | Evanston | Private | 22,000+ |
| 3 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign | Public | 56,000+ |
| 4 | Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago | Private | 7,000+ |
| 5 | University of Illinois Chicago | Chicago | Public | 34,000+ |
Rankings based on US News, QS, and THE data for the 2025–2026 academic year.
What Is the Higher Education System Like in Illinois?
- Adler School of Professional Psychology
- American College of Education
- American InterContinental University
- Argosy University
- Augustana College
- Aurora University
- Benedictine University
- Blackburn College
- Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing
- Bradley University
- Catholic Theological Union
- The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
- Chicago State University
- Chicago Theological Seminary
- Columbia College Chicago
- Concordia University-Chicago
- DePaul University
- DeVry University
- DeVry University-Chicago
- DeVry University-DuPage
- Dominican University
- East-West University
- Eastern Illinois University
- Ellis University
- Elmhurst College
- Erikson Institute
- Eureka College
- Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
- Governors State University
- Greenville College
- Hebrew Theological College
- Illinois College
- Illinois College of Optometry
- Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago
- Illinois Institute of Art-Schaumburg
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- Illinois State University
- Illinois Wesleyan University
- Institute for Clinical Social Work
- John Marshall Law School
- Judson University
- Kendall College
- Knowledge Systems Institute
- Knox College
- Lake Forest College
- Lake Forest Graduate School of Management
- Lakeview College of Nursing
- Lewis University
- Lexington College
- Lincoln Christian College & Seminary
- Lincoln College
- Loyola University Chicago
- Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago
- MacMurray College
- McCormick Theological Seminary
- McKendree University
- Midstate College
- Midwestern University
- Millikin University
- Monmouth College
- Moody Bible Institute
- National University of Health Sciences
- National-Louis University
- North Central College
- North Park University
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Northern Baptist Theological Seminary
- Northern Illinois University
- Northwestern University
- Olivet Nazarene University
- Principia College
- Quincy University
- Robert Morris College
- Rockford College
- Roosevelt University
- Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science
- Rush University
- Saint Anthony College of Nursing
- Saint Augustine College
- Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
- Saint John’s College
- Saint Xavier University
- School of the Art Institute of Chicago
- Seabury-Western Theological Seminary
- Shimer College
- Southern Illinois University System
- Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies
- Trinity Christian College
- Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences
- Trinity International University
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois System
- University of Saint Francis
- VanderCook College of Music
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Illinois?
| Expense | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition (Public) | $14,000 – $18,000/year |
| Out-of-State Tuition (Public) | $32,000 – $40,000/year |
| Private University Tuition | $40,000 – $62,000/year |
| Room & Board | $12,000 – $17,000/year |
| Books & Supplies | $1,000 – $1,500/year |
Tip: Apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine your eligibility for grants, work-study, and federal loans.
How Do You Apply to Universities in Illinois?
The college application process in Illinois typically involves:
- Research Schools: Use College Board, US News rankings, and university websites to find programs that match your interests.
- Standardized Tests: Most universities require SAT or ACT scores. Some schools are now test-optional.
- Application Materials: Prepare transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and extracurricular activity lists.
- Apply: Submit applications through Common App, Coalition App, or directly to the university.
- Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and apply for scholarships through both the university and external organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best universities in Illinois?
The top universities in Illinois are ranked based on academic reputation, graduation rates, research funding, and student outcomes. See our ranking table above for the latest 2026 data.
How much does it cost to attend college in Illinois?
Costs vary widely. In-state public tuition averages $14,000 – $18,000/year, while out-of-state and private universities can cost significantly more. See our cost table above.
What financial aid is available in Illinois?
Students can access federal aid (Pell Grants, Stafford Loans), state-specific grants and scholarships, and institutional aid. Complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility.
What are the admission requirements?
Most universities require high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (some are test-optional), letters of recommendation, and personal essays. Requirements vary by institution and program.
Can international students study in Illinois?
Yes, universities in Illinois welcome international students. You will need an F-1 student visa, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), and sufficient financial documentation.