Apply to our MSLIS Program

What are the requirements for admission?

We welcome students from all backgrounds to ensure that our campus is inclusive. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign prohibits discrimination based on characteristics such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, marital status, national origin, race, sexual orientation, or veteran status. 

While a bachelor's degree is required for admission, your degree can be in any discipline.

The MSLIS degree program is now test-optional for the standardized test requirement (i.e., GRE and GMAT). If you feel that your test scores reflect your potential and promise in graduate school, you can submit your scores for admission consideration. All other applicants, regardless of undergraduate GPA, are not required to submit a standardized test score. We hope to alleviate the financial burden and heightened anxiety associated with taking a standardized test. Applicants that do not submit a test score will not be disadvantaged throughout our application review process, which is holistic and comprehensive.

In addition to the online application, admission requirements include:

• Three letters of reference
  If you graduated within the last three years of your proposed graduate program start term, one letter of recommendation must be from a faculty member with whom you have taken a class. The two remaining letters should be professional in nature, written by faculty, employers, supervisors, professors, or others who are able to comment on your professional and educational goals as well as your aptitude for success in a graduate program. 
• A resumé
• A personal statement

International applicants whose native language is not English must submit evidence of having passed an English proficiency test. The University accepts the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and Duolingo tests.

While our English proficiency requirements are higher than those set by the Graduate College, all applicants are encouraged to apply to the iSchool; however, those who meet or exceed our requirements have a greater chance for admission to our program.

Note: Our School's Institution code is 1836.

The University's Department of Linguistics serves as a resource for currently enrolled Illinois graduate students who wish to improve English-language proficiency.

How do I apply?

To apply, visit the Graduate College's application page, review the information, and select the “Apply Now” button. Follow the instructions for applying as well as uploading your academic credentials, resumé, and personal statement. An application fee is required, and the amount is determined by your citizenship and/or visa status.

We are looking for students who are creative, curious, motivated, and prepared to be leaders in the field. Your personal statement (1,000 words max, 12pt Arial font, single spaced) should answer the following questions:

1. How has your academic and professional background, including any professional training, prepared you for graduate study?
2. How will our program help you achieve your intellectual and professional goals?
3. What are your academic interests, and why do you wish to pursue graduate studies in this specific program?

Newly admitted students must enroll in their program within one year from the original chosen term of enrollment on their application. If eligible, admitted students can defer their entry term only once.

When are applications due?

Applicants are encouraged to submit their application materials before or on the final deadline in order to be considered for merit-based scholarships. Scholarships will be based on a holistic review of all submitted application materials.

Spring 2024 Admission
MSLIS Spring application deadline: Sept 15
Notification date: October 20
Last day to accept admission offer: November 1

Fall 2024 Admission
MSLIS Fall application deadline: December 1
Notification date: February 2
Last day to accept admission offer: April 15

How will my application be evaluated?

Our Admissions Committee will evaluate your application as a whole, taking into account all submitted information. Only completed applications will be reviewed, and application materials will not be returned to the applicant.

Are application fee waivers available?

The iSchool is able to offer a very limited number of application fee waivers. To be considered, please complete the process explained here. Please note, we are not able to refund application fees that have already been paid.

Is there a process to appeal a denied decision? 

No, at this time appeal requests are not available and all decisions are final.

What if I have questions?

For more information, contact us! You can e-mail is-futurestudents@illinois.edu for answers to your questions.