Applying to study in the United States is a big and exciting step, and the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) offers a supportive, easy-to-follow admissions process for international students around the world. Whether you’re just finishing high school, transferring from another university, or planning to start a graduate program, this guide explains every step you must follow to submit a successful application.

This complete 2025 guide covers the international student application process, F-1 visa requirements, admission deadlines, document submission rules, and more—designed to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

⭐ Step 1: Understand Your UIS Applicant Category

Before starting your application, it’s important to identify which type of applicant you are. UIS has four main categories, each with its own requirements.

📘 First-Year Applicants (Freshmen)

Apply as a first-year student if you have:

• Finished high school or secondary school

• Not completed any university-level coursework

Your admission will be based on:

• Your academic coursework

• GPA converted to the U.S. 4.0 scale

• A personal statement

• English proficiency scores (if required)

This path leads to a bachelor’s degree program.

📗 Transfer Applicants

Choose this category if you have:

• Completed some university coursework

• Not yet earned a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s

Admission depends mainly on your university GPA (U.S. 4.0 scale).
Some programs may have additional requirements, so always check your program’s admission page.

📙 Graduate Applicants (Master’s or Doctoral Programs)

You are considered a graduate applicant if you:

• Already hold a bachelor’s degree

• Are applying for a master’s or doctoral program

Graduate admissions decisions are made directly by academic departments, and requirements vary by program.

📒 Non-Degree Applicants

This option is for students who:

• Want to take classes without earning a degree

• Want personal or professional enrichment

⚠️ Important: Non-degree students are NOT eligible for an F-1 student visa.

⭐ Step 2: Submit Your Online Application Before the Deadline

UIS accepts international applications for the Fall and Spring semesters. The only exception is the Master’s in Athletic Training Program, which begins in the Summer.

UIS recommends submitting your application at least 3 months before the semester begins to allow time for visa processing and preparation of your I-20.

📅 International Application Deadlines

• Fall Semester: May 15

• Spring Semester: November 15

• Summer Semester (Athletic Training Only): March 15

Applications must be completed on time so UIS can prepare your immigration documents and you can schedule your F-1 visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

If you have special circumstances, UIS encourages you to contact International Admissions for help.

⭐ Step 3: Prepare Your Personal and Academic Statements

Most UIS programs require at least one writing sample. You may be asked for:

✍️ Personal Statement

This is your opportunity to share:

• Who you are

• Your personal story or background

• Your interests and goals

• Achievements not shown in your transcripts

✍️ Academic Statement

This is more focused on your academic and professional goals, including:

• Why you chose your UIS program

• Your intellectual interests

• Relevant experiences or projects

• Your long-term career plans

These statements help UIS understand your motivations and readiness for academic success.

⭐ Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

UIS requires a non-refundable application fee:

• Undergraduate Applicants: $60

• Graduate Applicants: $75 per application
  (Graduate programs do not offer fee waivers.)

You can pay the fee when you submit your application or through your applicant portal.

⭐ Step 5: Submit All Supporting Documents

Every international applicant must submit official academic transcripts and, in most cases, proof of English proficiency.

To know exactly what you need, visit the UIS International Applicant Requirements page and select your country. Requirements vary based on where you studied and what level you are applying for.

🎓 Credential Evaluation Exceptions

UIS does NOT require a credential evaluation if:

• You attended an International Baccalaureate (IB) school

• You attended a Council of International Schools member using a U.S. curriculum

• Your school is U.S. State Department–assisted

• Your institution has U.S. regional accreditation

Also exempt:

• First-year international applicants who completed all high school coursework in the U.S.

• Transfer or graduate applicants who completed all university-level coursework in the U.S.

⚠️ Special Circumstances

If you experienced academic interruptions due to:

• Political unrest

• Educational strikes

• Refugee or asylum situations

• Loss of documentation

UIS will review your situation individually.
Email: [email protected] with a detailed explanation and supporting documents.

⭐ Step 6: Check Your Application Status Page

Once you submit your application, UIS will send an email with instructions to access your Admissions Status Page. This is your personal dashboard where you can:

• Upload required documents

• See what items are missing

• Track your application progress

• Receive your admission decision

Checking this page regularly helps avoid delays.

🎓 Start Your UIS International Journey Today

The University of Illinois Springfield offers international students a clear and supportive application process designed to help you succeed. By understanding your category, preparing your documents early, and meeting all deadlines, you’re well on your way to studying in the United States and building a bright future.