Syracuse vs Illinois
How Syracuse and Illinois stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Syracuse | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 43% | 42% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1270-1440 | 1390-1520 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Public |
| Location | NY | IL |
| Sticker price (per year) | $83,000 | $33,658 |
| Average cost after aid | $36,000 | $18,716 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- Illinois is harder to get into than Syracuse (42% versus 43%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Illinois is usually the cheaper option ($18,716 versus $36,000 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Illinois asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Syracuse vs Illinois FAQ
Is Syracuse or Illinois harder to get into?
Illinois is harder to get into, admitting about 42% of applicants versus 43% at Syracuse.
Is Syracuse or Illinois cheaper?
After financial aid, Illinois is usually cheaper, about $18,716 per year on average versus $36,000 at Syracuse.
See your real chances at Syracuse and Illinois.
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