FAQ
Below are answers to common questions about the City Scholars program. If you have a question you do not see answered below, send us an email.
Applications
What do I need to apply?
Read more about application eligibility →
Which majors can apply?
Currently, City Scholars is open to undergraduate students in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, CS+X and Electrical Engineering.
When is the application due?
The application deadline for Spring 2025 is September 18, 2024, 11:59 p.m. Submit your application here →
Where do I apply?
Applications are submitted online and are open for the first four weeks of the semester.
Read more about application eligibility →
What are the next steps?
Students will be notified after applications are reviewed. Admitted students should attend the networking event on campus and will interview with companies and submit preferences. Submitting internship preferences commits you to accepting any offer you receive.
How are students matched with companies?
This video will describe a matching process very similar to ours.
When will I know if I have been matched with a company?
Matches for the Spring 2025 cohort will be announced by the end of day on November 20, 2024.
Are all students who submit internship preferences matched within a company?
A match is not guaranteed. Students are encouraged to rank as many companies as possible in order to maximize their chances of matching.
Classes
Which classes are being offered?
How are classes delivered?
There are three ways City Scholars courses are delivered:
- Fully-online
- On the Urbana-Champaign campus, with lectures recorded for City Scholars and faculty providing special discussion sections for City Scholars
- In-person at the Discovery Partners Institute in Chicago
Are my engineering classes taught by UIC?
No, all classes are taught by Urbana-Champaign faculty.
Where are the classes located?
If held in person, classes are held at the Discovery Partners Institute (200 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60606).
When will I know which classes will be offered?
Once you are accepted into the program, City Scholars staff will work with your department to open the courses that you need from our frequently offered courses.
Am I able to take classes at UIC?
You may apply for co-current enrollment for courses taught at UIC, outside of Engineering courses. Enrollment is not guaranteed.
Will I become a UIC student for the semester?
No, you remain a student at Urbana-Champaign, but you will have access to UIC student facilities (i.e., recreation center, health center, libraries).
Do I pay tuition during my semester as a City Scholar?
Yes, you pay tuition as you normally would if you were on campus.
How many credit hours do I need to take?
City Scholars students are required to take a full course load (12 - 15 credits) of University of Illinois classes (in-person in Chicago or online). Underloads (fewer than 12 hours in fall/spring) require college approval. Overloads are not allowed.
Internship
Which companies are participating?
The list of confirmed companies will be posted on the bottom our application and eligibility page.
What will my work schedule be like?
You will arrange your work schedule with your employer, based on your course schedule and City Scholars activities.
How much will I be paid?
All City Scholars are paid $25 - 45 per hour.
Where will my work location be?
Most City Scholars will work in the Loop or close-by. Some City Scholars may be offered jobs at suburban locations that are accessible by public transit.
Living in Chicago
Where will I live?
City Scholars are encouraged to live in the block of UIC student housing that is specially reserved for City Scholars. Participants may also secure housing off-campus or live with family/friends.
Read more about housing →
Am I able to use student services at UIC?
Yes, City Scholars may use UIC libraries, recreation centers, health centers and other student services included in campus fees.
How will I travel around Chicago?
City Scholars have an option to purchase either a UPASS (unlimited rides on the “L” trains and CTA buses in Chicago) or a UPASS+ (unlimited rides on all Metra trains, “L” trains, and CTA buses in Chicago) during the semester.
Am I able to bring a car to Chicago?
You may apply for a parking pass at UIC through their Parking Services office.