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.
- ✓ 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.
Same field, different universities
| University | Country | Level | Duration | Tuition/year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UIUC ★ This programme | 🇺🇸 USA | Bachelor's | 4 years | $43,000 |
| Purdue QS #89 | 🇺🇸 USA | Bachelor's | 4 years | $31,104 |
| TU Munich QS #28 | 🇩🇪 Germany | Master's | 2 years | €0 |
| Edinburgh QS #27 | 🇬🇧 UK | Master's | 1 year | £31,200 |
| ELTE Budapest QS ~584 | 🇭🇺 Hungary | Bachelor's | 3 years | €3,200 |
Your counsellor helps you compare and apply to multiple programmes simultaneously — at no cost.
What you'll need
| Academic | High school diploma with strong maths (90%+ average) | |
| Maths | Calculus background recommended | |
| English | TOEFL iBT 90 / IELTS 6.5 | |
| SAT / ACT | Test-optional at many US universities | |
| Documents | Transcripts, essays, recommendation letter, passport | |
Grades just below the bar? We offer pathway and transfer routes into top US CS programs — your counsellor will find the right one.
Core courses
Career outcomes
$95,000
Median starting salary for CS graduates
3-year OPT
STEM-designated work authorisation in the US
96%
Employed or in further study within 6 months
Top employers
Google, Meta, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft
Application timeline
Tuition fees & costs
| Tuition (international) | Per annum | $43,000 |
| Total degree cost | 4 years × $43,000 | $172,000 |
| Enrolment deposit | Required to confirm seat & I-20 | $500 |
| SEVIS fee (I-901) | One-time US government fee | $350 |
Funding you may be eligible for
Your counsellor matches you with every scholarship you qualify for — university-based and government — at no cost.
Alternative funding options
Available for international students at 400+ US universities. No cosigner, collateral, or US credit history required. Fixed rates from ~7.5% APR.
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.
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.
F-1 visa financial proof: you must demonstrate ~$28,000/year in living expenses (in addition to tuition) through bank statements or sponsor letter.
F-1 visa requirements
| Visa type | F-1 Student Visa | |
| I-20 required | Certificate of Eligibility issued by UIUC | |
| SEVIS fee (I-901) | $350 (one-time, paid before interview) | |
| Visa application fee (DS-160) | $185 | |
| Financial proof | ~$68,000/year (tuition + living expenses) | |
| Post-graduation (OPT) | 12 months standard + 24 months STEM extension = 36 months | |
Your counsellor guides you through the full F-1 process — from I-20 to embassy interview preparation.
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."
"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."
Frequently asked questions
Ready to apply for Computer Science?
Start your free application with a counsellor who knows US tech admissions inside out.