University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is a public liberal arts and sciences university located in Springfield, the capital of Illinois. Founded in 1969 as Sangamon State University, UIS became part of the University of Illinois system in 1995. As one of three campuses in the University of Illinois system alongside Urbana-Champaign and Chicago, UIS offers an intimate, student-centered education with small class sizes and a strong focus on public affairs, government, and civic engagement. Its location in the state capital provides exceptional access to government internships, policy research opportunities, and professional networks. UIS enrolls approximately 4,661 students across undergraduate and graduate programs, with international students representing 22% of the student body — one of the highest proportions among Illinois public universities. The university is ranked #29 among Regional Universities Midwest and #10 among Top Public Schools in that category by U.S. News 2026. UIS has earned recognition for its strong online programs, robust transfer pathway from Illinois community colleges, and commitment to social mobility and access. Prairie Stars compete in NCAA Division II athletics.
Visa, OPT, H-1B alumni outcomes, and acceptance rates by country — sourced from FOIA, USCIS H-1B Hub, and DHS SEVIS.
The deep admissions playbook beyond the headline acceptance rate — round-by-round breakdowns, nationality data, requirements, and contact paths.
Domestic
—
/yr
Out-of-State / Intl
$22270
/yr
Beyond the sticker price — every named scholarship, the financial aid policy, need-aware notes, and a personalized net-cost estimate.
How life on campus actually feels — clubs, sports, traditions, housing realities, and how the school integrates with its city.
Where alumni go after graduation — top industries, grad-school continuation, and the qualitative outcomes story.
Sticker price (annual, out-of-state): $22,017
Net-cost estimate is US-resident-only — international applicants are typically excluded from need-based aid at most schools and should treat the sticker price as the planning baseline.
