I had to submit SOP and 3 LORs along with my CV. I highlighted my academic background and work experience in the SOP. University ranking, fully funded program and a good research group My overall experience at UIUC was excellent. I joined for a masters program and decided to continue with the PhD. I had an excellent advisor and research group. I learned a lot and made good connections. The overall campus life has something for everyone.
Course Curriculum :
Course carriculum is well designed and gave plenty of opportunity to learn solving real world problems.
Exams :
GRE 327 (don'tremember the breakup), TOEFL 108, GPA 9.6. I needed a speaking score of 24 to be eligible for a TA position. Not for the admission, but I had an interview for my research group where a senior PhD student asked about my research interests and described the work that the lab does.
Placement :
Very good. UIUC is among the top ranked universities and the recruiters know that. Most of the students in the program get placed either in indistry or academia.
Internship :
I interned at Lennox International and Brunswick Corporation in thermal engineering related roles.
Fees :
Don't know. I had full tuition waiver.
Scholarship :
I got the tuition waiver and assistantship stipend of around 2500$ per month.
Faculty :
Faculty are excellent and among the most qualified across the world. Despite that, they are very approachable and eager to engage with the students.
Campus Life :
Campus life is happening. Library and research facilities are top class.
Hostel :
I shared an apartment mostly with two other people. Didn't have to share the room. Average cost of living was very low. I paid less than 400-500 for rent and utilities.
