1. Get prepared.
Before applying as a transfer student, you'll want to learn our course and GPA requirements, which of your classes will transfer, whether your intended major is considering applicants, and more. You can find links to all of these resources on our transfer application preparation page.
2. Complete your application.
You'll choose a major, write an essay, and list your extracurriculars, work experience, honors, and awards. Note that we'll also use your application to determine admission into campus honors programs and award merit-based scholarships.
How to Transfer: A Complete Guide
We've created a guide to help you navigate our transfer application process. We hope it helps as you begin your planning!
3. Pay the application fee.
When you submit your application, you'll pay a nonrefundable fee by credit card. If you're a domestic student who qualifies for a fee waiver, your college counselor/school official must submit a fee waiver on your behalf. We must receive a fee or fee waiver form by our deadlines for your application to be considered complete.
- $50 Domestic
- $75 International
If you're a domestic student at the University of Illinois at Chicago or Springfield, you don't need to submit a fee. Instead, select "fee waiver" on the application and "I am currently enrolled at UIC/UIS" as the reason for the waiver. Current registration at UIC/UIS will be verified for applicants who select this option.
4. Send us your transcripts.
We need official transcripts from all colleges or universities you've attended. We also need a final, official transcript from your high school or your high school equivalency exam results to confirm you've graduated. When you apply, ask that these institutions send your official transcripts directly to our office.
5. Demonstrate your English proficiency.
You must meet one of our listed conditions to satisfy our minimum English proficiency requirement. In many cases, the standards needed to gain admission will be much higher, so it's worth submitting all test scores showing a high level of English competency.
Accepted Test Scores
We accept TOEFL iBT, Duolingo English Test, IELTS Academic, and IELTS Indicator. We'll also accept the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition for fall 2025, although a decision has not been made for future terms. If you're including these scores, you should report your highest valid TOEFL iBT (do not use MyBest score), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test score and highest sub-scores, regardless of test date. Scores are considered valid if taken within two years of enrollment.
Sending Your Test Scores
We require official test scores when you apply, and they must be dated within two years of your enrollment at Illinois. Our TOEFL iBT code is 1836. IELTS scores should be sent electronically via your testing center to the following account name: University of Illinois Urbana Champaign Undergraduate. Duolingo English Test scores should be sent electronically to the following account name: University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign Undergraduate Admissions.
6. See if you have further application requirements.
Depending on your background or the major you're applying to, you may have just a few more things to do.
International Applicants
You'll need to follow these additional steps during the application process.
Art & Design Applicants
You also need to submit a portfolio. More information is available through the School of Art and Design or by calling 217-333-6632.
Dance Applicants
You also need to complete an audition. More information is available through the Department of Dance or by calling 217-333-1010.
Music Applicants
You also need to complete a music application and audition or interview. More information is available through the School of Music or by calling 217-244-7899.
Theatre Applicants
You also need to interview and complete an audition or portfolio review. More information is available through the Department of Theatre or by calling 217-333-2371.
7. Check your status.
Once you've submitted your application, check its status by clicking on your application in myIllini. Make sure your personal information is correct and you report any errors to us. If you need to make a change, submit the necessary Change Request Form in myIllini.
Important Dates
Learn when our spring and fall transfer applications are available and when you'll be notified of a decision.