While an applicant may apply to several programs, applying to several specializations within the same program is not recommended. 

Please use the Academic Statement of Purpose to describe (within 750 words): (1) the substantive scholarly questions you are interested in exploring in graduate study, (2) your academic background, intellectual interests, and any training, research, or other experiences that have prepared you for graduate study, (3) how our program would help you achieve your intellectual goals, (4) any specific faculty members, if applicable, whose research interests align with your own interests, and (5) your professional goals.

The Personal Statement is required for applicants to the Education Policy, Organization and Leadership programs.

In this statement, within 250 words, you will provide evidence of how your professional experiences and prior academic work have focused your thinking toward the planned program of study.

This is required of all applicants.  For students applying to the Special Education doctoral program, a minimum of two years paid full-time professional experience related to special education or the field of disability is preferred for consideration for the program.

Every applicant is required to submit 3 letters of reference from persons who have direct knowledge of their academic and/or professional performance and potential for graduate study.

At the time of application you are only required to upload unofficial copies of your transcripts into the application.  The unofficial copy can be a screenshot or scanned copy but should not be a photo of the transcript.  Applicants must have earned at least a degree from an accredited college in the United States or a comparable degree from a recognized institution of higher learning abroad.  If admitted, you will be required to submit official transcripts to the Graduate College.  

A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (A=4.0), or comparable GPA for an international applicant, for last two years of undergraduate study is a minimum requirement for admission.

Once you have submitted your application, you will be required to pay your application fee by credit card.

• The fee must be paid within 3 weeks of submitting your application or your application will be unsubmitted.
• The fee must also be paid prior to your application deadline
• The fee is non-refundable and your application cannot be reviewed until the application fee has been processed.
• The application fee amount is determined by your citizenship and/or visa status.
  • Domestic applicants are required to submit a $70.00 application fee.
  • International applicants are required to submit a $90.00 application fee.

There are a variety of application fee waivers available.  Please see the Graduate College's website for the waivers accepted by the University of Illinois.