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 plus Certification program, you must also take the Content Area test, based on the content area you are choosing to study.  The Basic Skills and Content Area tests must be taken by the November 12, 2011 test date.
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:     

• October 15, 2011- for Spring 2012 admission.  Applicants will not be considered for department or University-level funding.  Admissions decisions will be made and announced in November.
• January 1, 2012 -for full consideration for Summer 2012 and Fall 2012 admission for MA/MS/EDM/CAS/PHD/EDD, and the deadline for consideration for department and University-level Financial Aid opportunities.  Please note that financial aid is not guaranteed, and is very limited and competetitve.  Likewise, international admits that are "limited status" are not eligible for funding.   Admissions decisions will be made and announced in February.
• February 1, 2012 -this deadline is for our Masters Plus Teacher Certification Applicants only.  Although an applicant may apply by an earlier deadline, these applications will not be considered until February 1. All in-state applicants to this program must have completed the appropriate ICTS Basic Skills Test and Content Area Tests (if applicable).  Admissions decisions will be made and announced in March.  
• March 1, 2012 - Final deadline for Summer 2012 and Fall 2012 admission. Applicants will not be considered for department or University-level funding.  Admissions decisions will be made and announced in April.

I will need financial aid.  What are my chances?
Financial aid decisions are made in the spring 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 January 1 deadline. Financial aid is not guaranteed, is very limited and is 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 with answering 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 also be submitted online.  If you have any problems with submitting or uploading materials, please contact the gradute programs secretary at cigradprograms@ed.uiuc.edu.