Forbes New Ivies 2025: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Rises as Engineering and Research Powerhouse that Employers Love

Looking for college options beyond the traditional Ivy League in Forbes New Ivies 2025: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?

Forbes’ New Ivies list has recognized the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as one of the standout institutions employers truly value in 2025.

With over 36,000 students and a competitive acceptance rate of 44%, UIUC has earned its place among elite educational institutions without the Ivy price tag.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign combines rigorous academics, exceptional research opportunities, and strong employer connections that make graduates highly sought after in the job market. 

As a public university offering Ivy-caliber education, UIUC boasts impressive credentials including a median SAT score of 1410, placing it competitively alongside more expensive private institutions.

What makes UIUC particularly attractive is its balanced approach to education.

While maintaining In addition to academic excellence, the university prioritizes workforce preparedness and practical skills development that employers consistently recognize, similar to those at Rice University.

This balance has helped UIUC join Northwestern as one of only two Illinois schools to achieve this prestigious recognition.

Key Takeaways

• UIUC ranks among Forbes’ 2025 New Ivies with a competitive 44% acceptance rate and 1410 median SAT score.
• Employers actively seek UIUC graduates for their practical skills and rigorous academic preparation.
• The university offers an Ivy-caliber education at a public university price point with strong post-graduation outcomes, similar to those at Washington University and Tufts University.

The Forbes New Ivies Explained: 20 Greatest Colleges Employers Love in 2025

Forbes recently introduced their New Ivies 2025 list, highlighting 20 institutions that rival traditional Ivy League schools in educational quality and employer recognition.

These schools have been gaining prominence for their academic excellence and the high value employers place on their graduates.

Criteria for New Ivies Selection: Comparable Traditional Ivy League School Standards

To make Forbes’ prestigious New Ivies list, institutions must demonstrate exceptional selectivity in their admissions process.

Schools like University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have become increasingly competitive, with acceptance rates dropping significantly in recent years.

The selection process focuses heavily on employer perception.

Forbes surveyed hiring managers who indicated that these New Ivy graduates are often better prepared for the workforce than their Ivy League counterparts.

In fact, 40% of surveyed employers believe traditional Ivy League schools are doing a worse job at preparing job candidates than five years ago.

Forbes also evaluates schools based on:

• Academic rigor and program quality
• Research opportunities and innovation
• Career placement rates and starting salaries
• Cost-to-value ratio compared to traditional Ivies

Comparison With Traditional Ivy League

The traditional Ivy League consists of eight prestigious institutions, including several from the ‘new ivies’ list. Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Brown, Dartmouth, Cornell, and Penn.

While these schools maintain their elite status, New Ivies are quickly closing the gap.

New Ivies like University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offer comparable academic quality at often significantly lower costs, especially for in-state students.

The Forbes study highlights that employers increasingly value skills and practical experience over institutional prestige.

Key differences include:

New Ivies are also known for their stronger industry connections in specific fields. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, for example, has exceptional employer relationships in engineering, computer science, and business – making graduates highly sought after in these sectors.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Overview: Among 2025 Forbes Public Universities New Ivies 2025

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign stands as one of America’s most prestigious public research institutions, combining historical significance with cutting-edge research and comprehensive academic programs.

Located in east-central Illinois, this Forbes New Ivy for 2025 offers students access to world-class education at public university rates.

Historical Significance

Founded in 1867 as a land-grant institution, UIUC has grown from humble beginnings into one of the nation’s top public universities.

The campus began with just a handful of buildings on the prairie and has evolved into a sprawling 1,783-acre campus serving over 56,000 students annually.

The university played a crucial role during World War II, contributing to military research and training programs.

UIUC’s innovations have shaped modern life—from the first graphical web browser (Mosaic) to groundbreaking supercomputers.

Notable historical landmarks include Altgeld Hall with its distinctive architecture and the Morrow Plots, the oldest experimental agricultural fields in the United States still in operation.

These plots earned National Historic Landmark status, symbolizing the university’s agricultural research legacy.

Academic Programs and Achievements Comparable to Top Private New Ivies and the Ivy League Schools

UIUC offers over 150 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs across 15 colleges and instructional units.

The university consistently ranks among the top public schools in the nation, with several programs achieving #1 rankings.

Top-Ranked Programs:

• #1 Accounting (undergraduate and graduate)
• #5 Engineering (undergraduate)
• #10 Computer Science
• #15 Business

The university maintains a strong academic profile with a 44% acceptance rate and a median SAT score of 1410 for incoming freshmen.

This selective admissions process contributes to its recognition as a Forbes New Ivy.

Faculty excellence is demonstrated through numerous accolades, including 24 Nobel Laureates and 31 Pulitzer Prize winners among alumni and faculty.

The student-faculty ratio of 20:1 allows for meaningful interaction between students and world-class professors.

Research and Innovation

UIUC ranks among the nation’s top 10 universities in research expenditures, with annual research funding exceeding $650 million.

The university operates over 100 research centers and institutes, fostering innovation across disciplines.

The campus houses some of the world’s most advanced research facilities, including the National Center for Supercomputing Applications.

UIUC was instrumental in developing the Blue Waters supercomputer and continues to pioneer computational research.

Employers consistently seek out UIUC graduates, who are often compared to those from the University of Pittsburgh. for their strong technical foundations and innovative thinking.

The university produces the 5th highest number of Fortune 500 CEOs among public universities, demonstrating the real-world impact of its research-oriented education.

Recent breakthroughs include advances in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and sustainable agriculture.

The Research Park adjacent to campus hosts over 120 companies, creating a dynamic ecosystem where students gain hands-on experience working alongside industry leaders.

Admissions and Selectivity: College Education on par with the Ivy League Schools

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has become increasingly competitive as part of the Forbes New Ivies.

The university’s reputation for academic excellence has attracted more high-achieving applicants, making admission significantly more selective than in previous decades.

Application Process

UIUC uses a The holistic review process at the university mirrors that of top private schools. that evaluates applicants beyond just test scores and GPA. The university considers:

• Academic performance in core subjects
• Rigor of high school coursework (AP, IB, honors)
• Personal essays and statements
• Extracurricular activities and leadership
• Letters of recommendation

The application deadline for priority consideration is typically November 1, with regular decisions released by mid-February.

UIUC uses the holistic review process to ensure a diverse and talented student body, akin to practices at top programs in private colleges. 

Common Application, making it easier for students to apply to multiple institutions simultaneously.

For the class of 2029, the overall acceptance rate the acceptance rate dropped to approximately 37%, with some top programs experiencing even more competitive admissions, like Computer Science and Engineering having much lower rates.

The acceptance rate is below 15% for top programs at private colleges.

SAT Scores and Requirements

UIUC maintains a test-optional policy for 2026 applicants, but submitting strong scores can strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs.

The middle 50% SAT score ranges for recent UIUC freshmen:

While test scores aren’t required, competitive applicants UIUC graduates typically score in the top 10% nationally, aligning with the standards of top programs at private colleges.

The increased selectivity aligns with UIUC’s status as a public ivy alternative, offering Ivy League-quality education at a more accessible price point.

Campus Life and Culture

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a vibrant campus environment with over 1,000 student organizations, diverse housing options, and strong diversity initiatives.

These elements combine to create a rich college experience that rivals the community feeling found at traditional Ivy League institutions.

Student Organizations and Activities

UIUC boasts more than 1,000 registered student organizations spanning academic, cultural, recreational, and special interest groups.

This extensive variety ensures you’ll find communities that match your interests.

The campus features a thriving Greek life with over 90 fraternities and sororities.

About 23% of undergraduates participate in these organizations, creating strong social networks and leadership opportunities.

Athletics and recreation play a major role in campus culture.

As a Big Ten Conference member, Illinois offers 21 varsity sports teams called the Fighting Illini.

The school’s College of Education is renowned for its innovative programs. strong arts and athletic culture energizes campus life with regular events.

The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts hosts over 300 performances annually, while the State Farm Center attracts major concerts and sporting events.

These venues provide entertainment options comparable to those at traditional Ivy campuses.

Housing and Dining

UIUC offers diverse housing arrangements designed to foster community.

First-year students typically live in one of the 24 university residence halls organized into neighborhoods across campus.

The Living-Learning Communities allow you to live with peers sharing academic interests or identities.

Options include Innovation LLC, Sustainability LLC, and multicultural houses that enhance your educational experience outside the classroom.

Dining services at Illinois receive consistently high ratings with over 20 dining locations across campus.

The award-winning dining halls offer extensive meal plans with options for various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly choices.

After freshman year, many students move to certified private housing, apartments, or Greek houses.

The campus area offers housing at various price points, making it more affordable than most Ivy League locations.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

UIUC demonstrates a strong commitment to creating an inclusive environment through structured programs and campus resources.

The Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations The university oversees cultural centers including the Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center, which is vital to the rise of the new Ivies. The Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center is part of the broader cultural initiatives at this public New Ivy. and La Casa Cultural Latina.

The university has implemented a Diversity & Inclusion Strategic Plan with measurable goals for increasing representation and fostering belonging.

This commitment includes dedicated scholarships and recruitment initiatives for underrepresented groups.

Cultural events and heritage celebrations Cultural events occur year-round, from Diwali Night to Black History Month programming, reflecting the rise of the new Ivies. These events draw thousands of participants annually.

The International Student and Scholar Services supports over 10,000 international students from more than 100 countries.

This creates a globally diverse campus experience that prepares you for an interconnected world.

Alumni and Post-Graduation Success: Brightest Students as Top Job Candidates in the Eyes of Employers 

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates achieve remarkable success after leaving campus, with impressive employment outcomes and a network of accomplished alumni who have made significant impacts across various fields.

Notable Alumni

UIUC boasts an impressive roster of alumni who have transformed industries and made lasting contributions to society.

Among its most recognized graduates are:

• YouTube co-founder Steve Chen (BS, Computer Science)
• PayPal co-founder Max Levchin (BS, Computer Science)
• Tesla Motors co-founder Martin Eberhard (BS, Computer Engineering)
• Film critic Roger Ebert (Journalism)
• Nobel Prize winners including John Bardeen (Physics, twice) and Robert Holley (Medicine)

The university’s engineering and computer science programs have produced leaders at major tech companies including Microsoft, Google, and Apple.

UIUC alumni have founded over 50 successful startups that reached valuations of over $1 million.

Unlike some Ivy League schools, UIUC graduates often show exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, with many choosing to create rather than just join established organizations.

Employment Outcomes: Graduates Employers Love

UIUC graduates experience exceptional job placement rates, with employers consistently ranking them among their top recruitment targets. Recent data shows:

The Career Center at UIUC provides comprehensive services including career counseling, resume workshops, and hosts over 1,000 employers at multiple career fairs annually.

Companies actively recruiting UIUC graduates include Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Boeing, Caterpillar, and JPMorgan Chase.

The university’s strong connections to the Chicago business community offer graduates additional advantages in job placement.

Students benefit from an active alumni network of over 475,000 living graduates who frequently participate in mentoring programs and create internship opportunities for current students.

Privacy Policy and User Data

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign implements comprehensive data protection protocols that safeguard student information while ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

These measures are essential for maintaining trust and security in an increasingly digital educational environment.

Handling of Personal and Geolocation Data

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign collects various types of personal data from students, faculty, and visitors.

This includes names, contact information, student ID numbers, and academic records.

When you use the university’s online platforms or campus Wi-Fi, your IP address and geolocation data may be tracked for security purposes and to improve service delivery.

This information helps the university optimize network performance across its extensive campus.

The university follows a strict data minimization policy, collecting only information that serves legitimate educational purposes.

You can access and modify your privacy settings through the university portal, giving you control over what information is shared with third parties.

Illinois law and university policy require explicit consent before sharing your personal data with external organizations.

The university provides clear opt-out options for non-essential data collection activities.

Security Measures and Data Protection

UIUC employs multi-layered security protocols to protect your personal information from unauthorized access. This includes:

• Encryption of sensitive data during storage and transmission
• Two-factor authentication for accessing university systems
• Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
• Automated threat detection systems monitoring network activity

The university’s IT security team stays current with the latest cybersecurity practices and regularly updates protection systems.

Your data is stored on secure servers with physical and digital safeguards in place.

In case of a security breach, the university has a comprehensive response plan that includes prompt notification to affected individuals and appropriate remediation steps.

The university complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other relevant data protection regulations.

Training programs ensure that staff members understand their responsibilities regarding data protection and privacy compliance.

Global Impact and Contributions: Among the 20 Great Colleges Employers Love in 2025

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign extends its influence far beyond campus borders through extensive international networks and meaningful societal contributions.

Its global footprint encompasses research collaborations across continents and economic development initiatives that benefit communities worldwide.

International Collaborations and Partnerships

UIUC maintains The university has over 400 active student organizations, contributing to the vibrant culture of the public New Ivies. international partnerships across 85 countries, positioning it as a truly global institution.

These collaborations span research initiatives, student exchanges, and joint degree programs that enrich the university’s academic environment.

The university’s Illinois Global Institute houses 10 international and area studies centers, many designated as National Resource Centers by the U.S. Department of Education.

This recognition highlights UIUC’s expertise in global education and research.

You’ll find that UIUC’s international student population is among the largest in American public universities, with over 10,000 international students from 100+ countries.

This diversity creates a multicultural learning environment that prepares all students for global careers.

The university’s strategic research partnerships with institutions like the Singapore-MIT Alliance, Oxford University, and Zhejiang University have produced groundbreaking work in areas such as advanced materials, sustainable energy, and artificial intelligence.

Contributions to Society and Economy

UIUC generates approximately $13.9 billion in annual economic impact for Illinois, according to recent economic analyses.

Your tax dollars see impressive returns when invested in this public institution.

The university’s Research Park houses more than 120 companies employing 2,100+ people, serving as an innovation hub where academic research translates into commercial applications.

Many of these innovations address pressing global challenges.

Breakthrough discoveries from UIUC have transformed society, including the first graphical web browser (Mosaic), LED technology, and MRI machines.

The university consistently ranks among the top 15 universities worldwide for patents issued.

You’ll benefit from UIUC’s commitment to addressing global challenges through initiatives like the Illinois Global Institute and Center for Global Studies.

The university offers programs which tackle the challenges faced by students in the rise of the new Ivies. issues ranging from food security to climate change through interdisciplinary approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many students and parents want to understand the significance of Forbes New Ivies designation and what it means for the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

The following questions address key aspects of this public New Ivies initiative. prestigious recognition.

What is the Forbes New Ivies list and how is it determined?

The Forbes New Ivies list represents a collection of colleges that are gaining recognition from employers as alternatives to traditional Ivy League schools. 

Forbes magazine has recognized the University of Virginia as one of the nation’s largest ivy institutions. evaluates institutions based on academic excellence, career outcomes, and employer preferences.

This annual ranking identifies schools that deliver exceptional education quality while producing graduates highly sought after in the job market.

The 2025 list includes 20 institutions – 10 public and 10 private universities.

The selection process involves analyzing employment data, graduate outcomes, and feedback from major companies across various industries.

What ranking did the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign achieve in the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list?

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign earned a spot among the top 10 public universities in the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list.

This recognition places UIUC in an elite group of institutions gaining preference among employers.

The university’s selection reflects its strong academic programs and growing reputation in the job market. UIUC stands out particularly for its excellence in engineering, computer science, and business programs.

Which colleges have been recognized as the New Ivies by Forbes for the year 2025?

The Forbes New Ivies 2025 list features 20 outstanding institutions divided equally between public and private universities.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign joins other public powerhouses like University of Michigan and Georgia Tech.

Private institutions on the list include Northwestern University, Carnegie Mellon, and NYU. These schools represent diverse geographic regions and academic strengths.

Each selected institution demonstrates exceptional educational quality and strong employment outcomes for graduates.

How does the Forbes New Ivies list compare to the traditional Ivy League colleges?

The Forbes New Ivies represent institutions that are gaining ground against traditional Ivy League schools in employer preferences.

According to the data, companies are increasingly valuing graduates from these alternative institutions.

New Ivies typically offer stronger returns on investment than traditional Ivies. Many provide comparable educational quality at lower costs, especially the public institutions.

The median SAT score for private Forbes New Ivies is 1530, showing academic selectivity approaching traditional Ivy standards.

What are the criteria for a university to be included in the Forbes New Ivies list, like median SAT Score and Acceptance Rate?

Academic excellence stands as a primary criterion, with New Ivies demonstrating rigorous educational standards.

Private institutions on the list admit students with median SAT scores of 1530 and ACT scores of 34.

Employer feedback plays a crucial role in the selection process. Companies increasingly report positive experiences with graduates from these institutions.

Career outcomes, including employment rates, starting salaries, and career advancement metrics, factor heavily into Forbes’ evaluation methodology.

What impact does a Forbes New Ivies designation have on a university’s reputation and student prospects, including the 2024 Forbes List and the 2025 List?

A Forbes New Ivies designation significantly enhances a university’s visibility among employers and prospective students.

This recognition validates UIUC’s academic quality and career preparation effectiveness.

Students at New Ivy institutions often experience improved job prospects.

Employers increasingly view these credentials as comparable or sometimes preferable to traditional Ivy League degrees.

Forbes New Ivies 2025 University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign gave the designation that can lead to increased applications and greater selectivity. This creates a positive cycle that further strengthens the institution’s reputation and outcomes!