Graduate Application Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get an Curriculum & Instruction catalog?
In order to insure that you always get the most up-to-date, correct information, all our department and application information is on the web here. We no longer have a hard copy catalog available. Our web site includes detailed application instructions, information about our divisions, and a link to apply online.

How many students do you admit?
We do not have a department quota, and the percentage of admissions to applications varies for each division and program. Admissions decisions are based on the projected relationship between the faculty and the applicant in addition to the strength of the application, statement of purpose, reference letters, undergraduate grade point average, graduate grade point averages, and relevant test scores. *Note:  The Master's plus Teacher Certification program has a limited number of spaces available among each area of focus.

How do I apply if I'm already a University of Illinois Graduate student and want to transfer to Curriculum & Instruction?
You can find information on the process for transferring to the Curriculum and Instruction Department here.

What tests are required for admission?
For students interested in our Masters + Certification program, you must take the Illinois Test of Basic Skills. If you are interested in a Secondary Education program, you must also take the Content Area test, based on the content area you are choosing to study.  The GRE is also required for students applying to Mathematics, Science, and Technology (MST) doctoral programs and for Masters and Doctoral students applying to Early Childhood Education programs. The TOEFL is required for all interenational students.

I'm an international applicant.  What do I need to apply?
Please see this website. It lists the documents needed for international applicants. The Evidence of Financial Resources, Transcripts, and English Proficiency Requirements are required before your application will be considered for admission.

What is the deadline to apply?
The deadlines to apply are as follows:

      December 1:
           Final Deadline for Masters + Certification students
           Deadline for full consideration and financial aid consideration for all programs for Fall
      March 1: 
           Final Deadline for Fall & Summer admission. Students will not be considered for financial aid     
       October 15:
            Final Deadline for Spring admission.  Students will not be considered for financial aid. 

I will need financial aid.  What are my chances?
Financial aid decisions are made in February-March for the coming Fall semester. Applicants who wish to be considered for College and University fellowships and scholarhips must submit their application and all supporting materials to the Curriculum and Instruction department no later than the December 1 deadline. Financial aid is not guaranteed and is limited and very competitive.

I still have some questions.  Who do I need to contact?
If after reviewing the website you still have questions, you can contact our Graduate Programs Secretary, Myranda Lyons, at mjlyons@illinois.edu.  Please include your specific questions in the e-mail, it will help us to answer your questions effectively. 

Application Materials

Where do I apply online?
All applications for admission are submitted to the Graduate College. Start the Graduate College Application here.

Where do I send my application materials?
Applications for admission are submitted to the Graduate College online. Supporting materials should be sent to the C&I Department:

Myranda Lyons
Graduate Programs Secretary
Department of Curriculum & Instruction
311 Education Building
1310 S. 6th St. MC 708
Champaign IL 61820
mjlyons@illinois.edu