🇺🇸 Illinois, United States · US Top-5 Computer Science
BSc Computer Science
Learn to build the technology shaping the world — from AI and systems to security and software. A flagship, STEM-designated degree with a direct pipeline to the biggest names in tech.
4 years
Full-time duration
$43,000
Tuition / year (intl.)
Aug 2026
Next intake (Fall)
TOEFL 90
English requirement
Overview
✓ Study at a US top-5 Computer Science department (US News 2026)
✓ A STEM-designated degree — qualify for 36-month OPT work authorisation
✓ A direct pipeline to internships at leading US tech companies
This degree takes you from the fundamentals of programming and discrete maths to advanced work in artificial intelligence, systems, databases and security. You'll build real software in teams, take on summer internships, and graduate ready for the most competitive roles in tech.
Graduates join engineering teams across the US and worldwide — and, because the degree is STEM-designated, qualify to work in the US for up to three years on OPT.
Coverage: Tuition + living allowance (varies by award)
Eligibility: Citizens of MENA countries
Duration: Full degree programme
Deadline: Varies — your counsellor tracks deadlines
Source: amideast.org, 2026
Government Scholarships (home country)
Saudi SACM, Egyptian Mission, etc.
Full award
Coverage: Tuition + living expenses + flights
Eligibility: Varies by country — strong academic record required
Duration: Full degree
Deadline: Varies — your counsellor checks eligibility
Source: sacm.org.sa / mohe.gov.eg, 2026
🎓
Your counsellor matches you with every scholarship you qualify for — university-based and government — at no cost.
Loans & financing
Alternative funding options
MPOWER Financing
International student loan · No cosigner required
Up to $100,000
Available for international students at 400+ US universities. No cosigner, collateral, or US credit history required. Fixed rates from ~7.5% APR.
On-campus employment
Earn while you study
Up to 20 hrs/week
F-1 students may work up to 20 hours/week on campus during the academic year and full-time during breaks. UIUC offers thousands of campus jobs — research assistantships, labs, dining, and IT support.
Living costs
Monthly budget in Champaign-Urbana
Champaign-Urbana is a college town with a very affordable cost of living compared to major US cities — one of the reasons international students choose UIUC.
Rent (shared apartment)$600–$900
Food & groceries$250–$400
Transport$0–$50
Health insurance (univ.)$200–$250
Books & supplies$50–$100
Personal & leisure$150–$300
Estimated total$1,250–$2,000/month
F-1 visa financial proof: you must demonstrate ~$28,000/year in living expenses (in addition to tuition) through bank statements or sponsor letter.
Your counsellor guides you through the full F-1 process — from I-20 to embassy interview preparation.
Student stories
Hear from our students
"UIUC's CS department is on another level — the professors are world-class and the career fairs are packed with Google, Meta, and Amazon. I got a summer internship at a top tech company after my sophomore year. My counsellor helped me with everything from SAT prep to the visa interview."
KM
Karim M.
BSc Computer Science, UIUC — Class of 2027 · 🇪🇬 Egypt
"The STEM OPT is a game-changer — I have 3 years to work in the US after graduation. Champaign is super affordable compared to California, and the campus is beautiful. My counsellor secured me a $10,000 merit scholarship."
NA
Nour A.
BSc Computer Science, UIUC — Class of 2026 · 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is the SAT required for international students?
Many US universities have adopted test-optional policies. UIUC recommends but does not strictly require the SAT/ACT for international applicants. A strong SAT score can strengthen your application, but it's not mandatory. Your counsellor advises whether submitting a score helps or hurts.
Can I work in the US after graduating?
Yes. As a STEM-designated degree, the BSc in Computer Science qualifies you for 36 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) — 12 months standard plus a 24-month STEM extension. After that, your employer can sponsor you for an H-1B work visa.
How competitive is UIUC CS admissions?
UIUC's CS programme is highly competitive — the acceptance rate for CS is lower than the university's overall rate. Strong maths grades, a compelling personal statement, and relevant extracurriculars make the difference. Your counsellor helps you craft an application that stands out.
Can I work on campus during my studies?
F-1 students may work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic year and full-time during breaks. UIUC offers thousands of campus jobs — research assistantships are especially valuable for CS students looking to build their resume.
Is Champaign-Urbana a good place to live?
Champaign-Urbana is a classic US college town — safe, affordable, and centred around the university. The campus has its own bus system (free for students), a large international community, and is a 2.5-hour drive from Chicago. Living costs are 50–60% lower than San Francisco or New York.
