DEEPCOLLEGES · OPS · v3.2 SCHOOLS·INDEXED 50 SOURCES IPEDS · CDS · SCORECARD LAST·SYNC 2026.04.28

University of Illinois | DeepColleges

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · Champaign, IL

How Much Do APs Matter at University of Illinois?

50 AP Impact
AP Impact Score: 50/100

APs are considered but not decisive at University of Illinois. Focus on GPA and overall application strength.

What University of Illinois Values in Admissions (CDS Data)

From the Common Data Set — what University of Illinois officially says matters in admission decisions.

FactorImportance
Academic Gpa Very Important
Rigor Of Secondary School Record Very Important
Class Rank Important
Standardized Test Scores Important
Application Essay Important
Recommendation Considered
Extracurricular Activities Important
Talent Ability Important
Character Personal Qualities Considered
First Generation Considered
Alumni Relation Considered
Interview Not Considered
Work Experience Considered
Volunteer Work Considered

Best AP Classes to Take for University of Illinois

Based on University of Illinois's most popular majors and admission priorities, these AP courses are most valuable:

For Engineering (20% of students)
  • AP Calculus BC
  • AP Physics C: Mechanics
  • AP Physics C: E&M
  • AP Chemistry
For Social Sciences (8% of students)
  • AP U.S. History
  • AP Government
  • AP Economics (Macro/Micro)
For Computer Science (6% of students)
  • AP Computer Science A
  • AP Computer Science Principles
  • AP Calculus BC
For Psychology (6% of students)
  • AP Psychology
  • AP Statistics
  • AP Biology

AP Strategy for University of Illinois Applicants

3-5 strong AP courses is solid
University of Illinois values AP coursework as evidence of academic preparation. Focus on scoring well (4-5) rather than taking too many.
Score high for credit
Most colleges require a 4 or 5 to grant credit. AP credits can save you a semester of tuition — that's $15,000-$30,000 in real savings.
Match APs to your intended major
Admissions officers notice when your AP choices align with your stated interests. If you say you want to study engineering, AP Calculus and Physics should be on your transcript.

More About University of Illinois

University of Illinois Acceptance Rate University of Illinois Tuition & Cost Best Majors at University of Illinois University of Illinois AP Credit

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard. University of Illinois is not affiliated with DeepColleges.