University of Illinois Actuarial Science
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
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- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Actuarial science students at Illinois join a supportive community within the larger university. The Illinois Actuarial Science Club organizes study groups for professional examinations, career preparation events, company information sessions, and social activities. Peer mentoring connects newer students with experienced upperclassmen who provide guidance on coursework, examinations, and career planning. The mathematically inclined student body creates natural study groups and collaborative learning environments. The program's collegial atmosphere contrasts with competitive environments at some peer institutions, with students frequently helping each other prepare for challenging courses and examinations. The broader University of Illinois community offers extensive extracurricular opportunities. Division I athletics generate campus excitement, particularly basketball in the Big Ten Conference. Hundreds of student organizations span academic, cultural, recreational, and social interests. Campus facilities include modern recreation centers, extensive libraries, performing arts venues, and diverse dining options. The quad provides a central gathering space and iconic campus setting. Fraternity and sorority life is active for interested students.
Location & Surroundings
The University of Illinois occupies the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign in central Illinois, approximately 140 miles south of Chicago. The quintessential college town environment means university life dominates local culture, with campus and town boundaries intermingling seamlessly. The Midwest setting provides an affordable cost of living substantially below major metropolitan areas. Housing near campus is plentiful and reasonably priced. The flat terrain and compact development make cycling practical despite cold winters. While the location lacks major city amenities, the large student population supports diverse dining, entertainment, and cultural offerings. The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts presents world-class performances. Local restaurants span cuisines from around the world, reflecting the diverse student and faculty population. The climate features four distinct seasons: cold winters with snow and temperatures often below freezing, pleasant spring and fall periods, and hot humid summers. The inland location means temperature extremes are more pronounced than coastal areas. Chicago provides occasional escapes for those seeking major city experiences. Bus and train services connect campus to Chicago, though travel time exceeds two hours. Many students maintain cars for regional travel.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition and fees at the University of Illinois are approximately $16,000 per year for Illinois residents and $34,000 for non-residents. Room and board add approximately $12,000-15,000 annually. Books, supplies, and personal expenses require additional budgeting. Financial aid includes merit scholarships, need-based grants, and student loans. The actuarial science program offers some scholarship funding for qualified students. External scholarships from actuarial organizations and employers provide additional opportunities for students progressing through professional examinations. Summer internships are essentially universal among actuarial students, with most completing at least two internships before graduation. Internships provide professional experience, examination study time, and often lead to full-time employment offers. Many internships are paid at rates exceeding $20-25 per hour. Career outcomes for Illinois actuarial graduates are excellent. The program's reputation and industry connections facilitate placement at major insurance companies, consulting firms, and other employers. Typical starting salaries range from $65,000-85,000, with rapid advancement as students pass additional examinations. Experienced actuaries with credentials can earn $150,000-300,000 or more in senior positions. The career path is well-defined, with professional examinations marking progression from entry-level analyst through Associate and Fellow credentials. Most graduates achieve fellowship within 7-10 years, though timelines vary. The actuarial profession consistently ranks among the best careers for job satisfaction, compensation, and work-life balance.
Campus Location
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