Illinois Institute of Technology
The Vibe Check
Illinois Tech feels like a collaborative innovation hub where theory meets real-world application. The atmosphere is intensely focused but supportive, with students bonding over challenging problem sets and late-night coding sessions. It's a community of hands-on learners who value practical impact over abstract theory.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Illinois Tech is renowned for its rigorous STEM programs, particularly in engineering, computer science, and architecture, with a strong emphasis on project-based learning. The university boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering close mentorship and undergraduate research opportunities from the first year. Students frequently collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research in fields like food safety and sustainable energy.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Chicago
Students take full advantage of Chicago's world-class museums, live music venues, and diverse food scene, often using the 'L' train to explore different neighborhoods. On weekends, you might find groups heading to Lake Michigan for a run, catching a Cubs game, or exploring the vibrant arts and culture scene. The city's internship opportunities in tech, finance, and engineering are unparalleled.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($82,592):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in the Bronzeville neighborhood, which has seen significant redevelopment and is generally considered safe with a visible campus security presence. Like any urban area, students are advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially at night, but the campus itself is well-lit and patrolled.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong focus on hands-on, project-based learning and undergraduate research.
- ✓ Prime location in Chicago offers unmatched internship and job opportunities.
- ✓ High graduation and retention rates indicate strong student satisfaction and support.
- ✓ Robust career outcomes with median 10-year earnings exceeding $82k.
Cons
- ✗ Tuition is high, though net price can be significantly lower with aid.
- ✗ The urban campus may feel compact to those wanting a traditional sprawling college town.
- ✗ The curriculum is heavily STEM-focused, which may be less ideal for students pursuing purely liberal arts paths.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Illinois Tech is known for its strong emphasis on STEM education, particularly in engineering, computer science, and architecture. It is also recognized for its unique 'Architecture and Design' program and its close ties to industry leaders in Chicago. The university prides itself on a hands-on, project-based curriculum that prepares students for real-world challenges.
With an acceptance rate of 55.42%, Illinois Tech is considered moderately selective. While not as competitive as some elite universities, it seeks students with strong academic records, particularly in math and science. The middle 50% SAT range is typically between 1210 and 1410, so applicants should aim to be within or above this range for a strong chance of admission.
Campus life is a blend of rigorous academics and a close-knit community. With a small undergraduate enrollment of around 2,800, students benefit from small class sizes and accessible professors. Students are actively involved in project teams, research, and student organizations, and they take advantage of Chicago's cultural and recreational offerings just a short train ride away.
For many students, particularly those in STEM fields, the answer is yes. The average net price of $19,353 is much lower than the sticker price, and the median 10-year earnings of $82,592 indicate a strong return on investment. The high retention (86.9%) and graduation (73.8%) rates also suggest that students are well-supported and successfully complete their degrees.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1890
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 3,517
- In-State Tuition $51,763
- Zip Code 60616
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
While the sticker price is high, the average net price of $19,353 makes it more affordable for many families, especially with a 29.1% Pell Grant rate indicating strong support for lower-income students. The 10-year median earnings of $82,592 for graduates suggest a strong return on investment, particularly for those in top majors like engineering and computer science. The investment is often justified by the high graduation rate and direct pipeline to top employers in a major city.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.