Are you looking for ways to study in the United States with scholarships? Many universities in the U.S. offer scholarships worth $10,000 or more, and in this post, we’ll dive into the specifics of how Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) Chicago offers scholarships to international students.
We’ll also explore what life is like at IIT Chicago, including tuition costs, on-campus job opportunities, and insights from students who have experienced it firsthand. Now, let’s dive into how IIT Chicago offers scholarships and what life at this university is like.
IIT Chicago: An Overview
A year ago, I visited IIT Chicago (also known as Illinois Institute of Technology) while on a work trip to Chicago. There, I met with mark, a former subscriber who completed his Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a major in AI and Computer Vision at IIT Chicago.
I also had the chance to sit down for a podcast with desire, who pursued a Master’s in Information Technology and Management with a specialization in Software Development. She even landed an internship at Intel as a Technical Program Manager!
Both mark and desire shared their experiences with IIT Chicago, including how they secured a $10,000 scholarship and what it’s like to study and live on campus. Let’s break it down:
Scholarship Opportunities at IIT Chicago
One of the main reasons international students choose IIT Chicago is its generous scholarship program. But how do you get the coveted $10,000 scholarship?
Mark’s Experience
When I asked mark about his academic profile, his GRE score was around 300, and he scored 119 out of 120 on the TOEFL. A high TOEFL score can open doors, not only for admission but also for scholarships. Many universities, including IIT Chicago, value strong English language skills and may offer scholarships to candidates with outstanding TOEFL scores.
In fact, some of our subscribers have also received scholarships based on their TOEFL results. To prepare for the TOEFL, I recommend taking official practice tests and using the many resources available online. You can find helpful TOEFL preparation materials in the description below.
Desire’s Scholarship Process
Desire received a $10,000 scholarship for one academic year. When asked how she applied for it, she explained that the scholarship process at IIT Chicago starts after the admission process is completed—usually in February.
The admissions team reviews your profile, and if they like what they see, they may offer a scholarship on the spot. The amount and availability can vary by department, but for computer science students, $10,000 is a common award.
The key takeaway? Apply early! The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a scholarship. Many universities, including IIT Chicago, want to attract top talent by offering scholarships to strong candidates.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
So, how much does it cost to study at IIT Chicago?
For Mark’s Master’s program, the tuition was $614 per credit, with the total cost for a 30-credit program estimated at around $48,000. Anjeli’s tuition was similar, but after applying her $10,000 scholarship, her final cost was approximately $40,000.
In addition to tuition, the cost of living is another significant expense. For most students, living expenses during a master’s program will range from $16,000 to $20,000. Therefore, the total cost of attending IIT Chicago is typically between $60,000 and $70,000.
On-Campus Job Opportunities
With such high expenses, finding an on-campus job is essential for many international students. Luckily, IIT Chicago offers various on-campus job opportunities, and networking with current students can help you secure one.
How desire Landed an On-Campus Job
Desire managed to get an on-campus job on her very first day at IIT Chicago! She attributes her success to proactive networking with seniors and using platforms like Handshake to apply for part-time jobs. Anjeli advises students to book their flights early and start job hunting before arriving in the U.S.
She worked as a student ambassador in the Alumni Office, earning $14 to $15.50 per hour during her time on campus. Other on-campus jobs, such as those in dining halls or administrative offices, offer similar pay.
Mark’s Tips
Mark also emphasized the importance of networking. He advises reaching out to seniors before landing on campus, as they can provide valuable insights and connections that may help you secure a job.
Life at IIT Chicago
Life at IIT Chicago is both challenging and rewarding. The university offers a lot of flexibility in terms of course selection and internship opportunities. In fact, it’s one of the few universities that allows students to work up to 40 hours a week during their Co-op programs, providing even more opportunities to gain experience and reduce living expenses.
Challenges for International Students
However, being an international student comes with its own set of challenges. Mark recalls the difficulty of adjusting to life with six roommates after living with her family in Nigeria. The cultural adjustment, combined with academic demands, can be tough, but having supportive roommates and friends can make all the difference.
Employment After Graduation
One of the most pressing questions for international students is, “Will I get a full-time job after graduation?”
Job Market Realities
Williams shared that about 50-60% of his classmates secured full-time jobs, while others were still job hunting. While the job market was more favorable when they graduated, the current market is more challenging. However, there are still job opportunities out there if you remain persistent.
Make sure to update your resume and tailor it to each job you apply for. Don’t forget to network with hiring managers and recruiters on LinkedIn to improve your chances of landing a job.
Final Thoughts
Studying at IIT Chicago can be a transformative experience, especially with the potential to secure a $10,000 scholarship and the opportunities for on-campus jobs. If you’re considering studying in the U.S., applying early and building a strong network will give you a significant advantage.
Feel free to check out the TOEFL resources and job-hunting course in the description below. Let me know in the comments what university you’d like me to cover next! Until then, keep smiling, keep hustling, and I’ll see you in the next one.
