This guide ranks 4 colleges in Illinois by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.

What is the hardest college to get into in Illinois?

University of Chicago has the lowest acceptance rate among Illinois colleges on this list at 4.8%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.

Which Illinois college has the highest graduate salary?

University of Chicago graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Illinois colleges on this list, at $91,885. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.

Should I stay in Illinois for college?

In-state public colleges in Illinois typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Illinois charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.

Top Colleges in Illinois

FAQs about colleges in Illinois

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