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The UIC Honors College is an option for undergraduate students at UIC. Honors students are high-achieving and motivated to engage in the many learning opportunities offered in the classroom, through research, during service and internship experiences, and from each other.

Admitted students typically have strong academic records; well-developed essays demonstrating thoughtful reflection on the essay prompt; extracurricular involvement showing commitment and leadership; unique talents or abilities; and willingness to embrace diversity in both ideas and people.​ Selection into the Honors College is competitive. Applicants are reviewed using a set of criteria designed to consider both past accomplishments and future promise.

  • 94 % First-to-second year retention

  • 71 % Four-year graduation rate

  • 60 % Graduates who go on to graduates or professional school.

What to Expect Heading link

Honors student with UIC sweater smiling in the lounge.

The UIC Honors College offers the advantages of a small college with the opportunities of a large research university. The Honors College fosters a community of academic excellence, connects students with premier faculty, and promotes civic engagement and leadership opportunities.

The UIC Honors College is an option for undergraduate students at UIC who seek additional academic challenge and engagement opportunities outside the classroom.  Members of the Honors College take honors courses or participate in out-of-classroom learning experiences each semester.

Honors College Fact Flyer Heading link

Our students are recognized on campus as leaders, innovators and contributors to the UIC community and the city at large. Please download our fact flyer for more information on demographics, enrollment statistics, and more.

Download Fact Flyer

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Key Benefits Heading link

Students in a classroom
Courses
Small Honors-level courses and seminars taught by premier faculty.
Student sitting with an Honors member standing above them
Mentorship
Faculty Fellows and Honors Advisors assigned to all students for mentoring and advising.
Student presenting at URF
Engagement
Engagement in undergraduate research, service, and leadership.
Students writing on sticky notes with a taped prompt.
Involvement
Ongoing special events and organizations to engage with a community of like-minded peers.