Bachelor of Science [B.S] (Computer Science and Chemistry)
Field of Study:
₹44.4 L/Yr
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Bachelor of Science [B.S] in Computer Science and Chemistry is a four-year, full-time on-campus programme combining computational thinking with molecular science. International students must demonstrate academic strength (SAT 1100+, GPA 3.0+) and English proficiency (TOEFL 100 iBT or IELTS 7.5). Annual tuition ranges from US$34,338 to US$35,872 (INR 32.77 Lakhs to INR 34.24 Lakhs), with total annual cost of attendance reaching US$58,616 to US$68,966 (INR 55.89 Lakhs to INR 65.77 Lakhs) including living expenses. Two intake periods open each year: Fall (August) and Spring (January).
This dual-discipline degree trains students to bridge two fast-growing fields: software systems design and materials science. Graduates leave with coding expertise and chemistry knowledge, positioning them for roles in pharma tech, materials research, and chemical engineering firms. The programme emphasizes laboratory work paired with real-world coding projects. Illinois’s strong reputation in both CS and chemistry, combined with 1,200 Indian undergraduate students already on campus, creates a supportive environment. Ideal applicants bring curiosity about both computational and experimental methods and see chemistry as data-driven science.
- Four-year degree combines core CS algorithms, software engineering, and advanced chemistry (organic, physical, analytical).
- Access to Illinois’s high-ranking chemistry labs and CS research clusters; Indian students account for one in ten undergraduates.
- Dual-degree holders enjoy broader career pathways across tech, pharmaceuticals, materials, and academic research sectors.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake closed on 15 May 2026. The Spring 2027 intake is expected to open in October 2026 with a deadline of 1 October 2026. For Indian applicants, WES transcript evaluation and credential assembly typically require 4-6 weeks before submission.
Also Check: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Computer Science and Chemistry Admission Requirements
University of Illinois Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry Fees and Living Costs 2026
Total cost of attendance varies by housing choice and living style. Detailed breakdown below:
| Cost Component | Amount (USD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (base for international students) | US$34,338–US$35,872 | INR 32.77–INR 34.24 Lakhs |
| Fees (student, technology, recreation) | US$5,054 | INR 4.82 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance (mandatory) | US$2,000 | INR 1.91 Lakhs |
| On-campus Housing (annual) | US$11,000–US$16,000 | INR 10.49–INR 15.25 Lakhs |
| Meals and Living Expenses | US$6,224–US$10,836 | INR 5.94–INR 10.34 Lakhs |
| Annual Total Cost of Attendance | US$58,616–US$68,966 | INR 55.89–INR 65.77 Lakhs |
| Four-Year Total (estimated) | US$234,464–US$275,864 | INR 2.24–INR 2.63 Crores |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of US$ 1 = INR 95.31 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
- Tuition covers classroom instruction and access to chemistry labs and CS computing clusters.
- Health insurance is compulsory for all international students; coverage includes preventive care and hospitalization.
- On-campus housing is guaranteed for first-year students and competitive in later years; off-campus rent averages US$450–US$600 per month (INR 42,890–INR 57,186 per month) for shared apartments.
- Meals on campus average US$1,500–US$1,800 per semester through university dining plans.
Cost of Living in Urbana for Computer Science and Chemistry Students
Urbana is a mid-sized college town with moderate living costs. Students share accommodation, cook occasionally, and use free campus amenities to control expenses.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (USD) | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared accommodation, off-campus) | US$450–US$600 | INR 42,890–INR 57,186 |
| Groceries and Cooking | US$200–US$300 | INR 19,062–INR 28,593 |
| Transport (bus pass, biking) | US$30–US$50 | INR 2,859–INR 4,766 |
| Personal Care and Utilities | US$100–US$150 | INR 9,531–INR 14,297 |
| Total Monthly (off-campus) | US$780–US$1,100 | INR 74,342–INR 104,842 |
Cost Reality for Indian Students: Plan for INR 55–66 Lakhs per year in total outlay, or INR 2.20–2.64 Crores over four years. Scholarships offset 20–40% for top applicants; most undergraduates cover the gap through family savings or part-time work during allowed hours.
Also Check: Cost of Living in the United States for Indian Students
University of Illinois Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry Admission 2026
Illinois accepts students in two intake windows per year. Admission is competitive; international applicants are held to the same academic standards as domestic peers.
| Intake | Entry Month | Typical Deadline Status |
|---|---|---|
| Fall | August | Closed (15 May 2026); next cycle opens January 2027 |
| Spring | January | Expected deadline October 2026; typically more available spots |
Academic eligibility requires a minimum high-school GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) and strong performance in math and science subjects. Preferred SAT score is 1100+ (mathematics and English combined); ACT equivalent is 24+. Most admitted students score 1200–1400 SAT.
English Language Proficiency
International applicants must prove English competency through standardized tests. Illinois accepts four pathways: TOEFL (iBT format), IELTS, Duolingo English Test, or equivalent certificates.
| Test | Overall Minimum | Per-Component / Per-Section Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT 2026 onwards | 100 | 20 per skill (reading, writing, listening, speaking) |
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.5 | 6.5 per band |
| Duolingo English Test | 110 | No per-component minimum |
- TOEFL at 100 overall with balanced section scores (20+ in each) is the most common path for Indian students; preparation typically spans 2–3 months post-12th board exams.
- IELTS 7.5 is slightly stricter per band (6.5 minimum each skill); many Indian test-takers find TOEFL more accessible for technical students.
- Neither test waiver nor lower threshold exists for high SAT/ACT scores; both are independently required for all international applicants.
Illinois ranks 36th overall in the US News 2026 National University Rankings and holds 70th position in the QS World University Rankings 2026. These university-level rankings reflect broad institutional strength; the chemistry programme consistently ranks in the top 25 globally (ARWU Agricultural Sciences includes chemistry-adjacent disciplines).
Tip for Indian Students: Illinois genuinely welcomes Indian applicants and tracks them separately in admissions data. Strong TOEFL/IELTS scores signal serious intent; even borderline academic profiles with high ELP scores often move forward if school transcripts are strong in math and science.
Read More: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Full Admission Criteria
University of Illinois Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry Application 2026
Illinois uses the Common Application for all undergraduate admissions. Application cycles are front-loaded; early submission often improves outcome likelihood. Timeline below reflects known and expected deadlines for current and upcoming intakes.
| Intake | Application Opens | Application Deadline | Expected Decision Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | September 2025 | 15 May 2026 (standard); 1 March 2026 (priority) | June 2026 |
| Spring 2027 | Expected July 2026 | Expected 1 October 2026 | Expected November 2026 |
| Fall 2027 | September 2026 | Expected 31 January 2027 (materials due 7 February 2027) | Expected April 2027 |
For Indian students, credential assembly (SAT, TOEFL, WES transcript evaluation) typically requires 4–6 weeks. Submit applications at least two weeks before the deadline to allow time for supplemental document uploads. Decisions arrive via email and the applicant portal simultaneously; no early-decision or binding early-action agreements apply.
Application Tip: Illinois releases decisions in rolling waves after each deadline; applicants submitting in January typically hear back by mid-March. Priority deadline (March) is not binding but does flag serious interest and may influence scholarship offers. Indian applicants at or above score thresholds benefit from submitting by priority date.
Check Out: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Admissions Portal
University of Illinois Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry Scholarships 2026
Illinois awards merit-based scholarships to all undergraduate admitted students based on academic credentials. International students are fully eligible. Average aid package: US$22,060 per year (INR 21.05 Lakhs per year). Need-based aid is limited for international applicants; the university guarantees to meet demonstrated financial need for admitted students who file the CSS Profile and submit supporting documents. Most support comes from merit scholarships listed below.
| Scholarship Name | Annual Award (USD) | Annual Award (INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholar Award | US$10,000–US$15,000 | INR 9.53–INR 14.30 Lakhs | Exceptional academic and extracurricular record |
| Illinois Commitment Scholarship | US$5,000–US$10,000 | INR 4.77–INR 9.53 Lakhs | Strong GPA and test scores; open to international students |
| ACES Departmental Scholarship (Chemistry/CS) | US$2,000–US$8,000 | INR 1.91–INR 7.63 Lakhs | Departmental selection based on major and academic fit |
A typical scholarship offer for a strong Indian applicant (SAT 1250+, GPA 3.5+) averages US$15,000–US$20,000 per year (INR 14.30–INR 19.06 Lakhs per year), reducing the net annual cost to US$38,616–US$53,966 (INR 36.82–INR 51.47 Lakhs). Over four years, this represents a total net cost of US$154,464–US$215,864 (INR 1.47–INR 2.06 Crores).
Scholarship Reality: Merit scholarships are automatic with admission; no separate application required. International students do not compete for additional need-based aid. Funding is guaranteed if you meet posted thresholds; however, most Indian families still finance 60–70% of total cost through personal savings or external loans.
Read More: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Scholarship Opportunities
University of Illinois Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry Salary 2026
Graduates with a BS in Computer Science and Chemistry enter roles in software engineering, research, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. Starting salary varies by specialization and employer type.
| Career Path | Median Starting Salary (USD) | Median Starting Salary (INR) | Typical Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer (Tech Companies) | US$85,000–US$110,000 | INR 81.01–INR 104.84 Lakhs | Google, Microsoft, Amazon, tech startups |
| Research Scientist (Chemistry/Materials) | US$60,000–US$80,000 | INR 57.19–INR 76.25 Lakhs | Pharma labs, materials science firms, national labs |
| Quality Assurance Analyst (Pharma) | US$55,000–US$70,000 | INR 52.42–INR 66.72 Lakhs | Pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotech |
| Graduate School Entry (PhD Chemistry/CS) | US$30,000 (stipend) | INR 28.59 Lakhs | Top-tier research universities |
Most Illinois graduates secure employment within 6 months of graduation. Dual-discipline holders are particularly sought by chemical informatics firms and biotech companies bridging software and chemistry. After five years in the field, graduates earning in software roles reach US$140,000–US$180,000 (INR 1.33–INR 1.72 Crores), while those in traditional chemistry research average US$95,000–US$120,000 (INR 90.54–INR 1.14 Crores).
Take-home pay depends on state and federal taxes. US federal income tax at entry-level is approximately 12%; Illinois state income tax is 4.95%. A gross salary of US$85,000 nets approximately US$65,000–US$68,000 after federal, state, and Social Security deductions.
Salary Reality: Illinois CS graduates command a 15–20% premium over national median entry salary due to strong recruiting from Bay Area and Midwest tech hubs. Chemistry-focused graduates earn less at entry but have clearer paths to specialization and management within five years.
Check Out: Post-Study Work Options in the United States
United States Visa Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry 2026
International students at Illinois study on the F-1 Student Visa, valid for the full duration of the programme plus optional practical training. The F-1 does not require renewal during your studies; it remains valid until degree completion. You must maintain full-time enrollment and comply with work-hour restrictions to stay in valid status.
- F-1 visa is valid for duration of status (expires upon degree completion, not on a fixed date).
- On-campus work is permitted up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during official breaks; on-campus wages are typically US$15–US$17 per hour (INR 1.43–INR 1.62 Lakhs per month for 160 hours).
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available after graduation for 12 months base + 24 months STEM extension (total 36 months) if your degree is STEM-eligible; Computer Science qualifies for the full 36-month entitlement.
- H-1B skilled worker visa sponsorship is common for CS graduates earning US$104,000+ per year; rare for traditional chemistry research roles unless the employer is a major pharma firm.
- Green Card (permanent residence) pathways take 5–10 years via employment sponsorship; most applicants enter H-1B first and transition later.
Visa Reality: F-1 students with CS specialization have straightforward post-graduation pathways through OPT and H-1B. Chemistry-only graduates should clarify employer sponsorship intent before enrolling, as green card pathways are slower. Married spouses can obtain F-2 dependent visas and are permitted to work only after obtaining their own work authorization.
Read More: F-1 Student Visa Requirements and Process
University of Illinois Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry Ranking 2026
Illinois Computer Science ranks 17th in the United States and in the top 50 globally across multiple ranking systems. The Chemistry programme ranks 24th in the United States for chemistry research output and top 25 globally for agricultural and materials chemistry. Combined dual-degree programmes are not separately ranked; admission is competitive and based on composite undergraduate academic profile.
| Ranking System | Computer Science Rank (USA) | Chemistry Rank (USA/Global) | Overall University Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| US News 2026 | 17th (USA) | Not specifically ranked | 36th (National Universities) |
| QS World 2026 | Top 50 globally | Top 50 globally | 70th (World) |
| ARWU 2026 | Top 100 globally | 25th (Global) | Top 100 globally |
The dual Computer Science and Chemistry specialization is rarely offered at peer universities in combination. Most students choose to major in CS and minor in chemistry or vice versa. Illinois’s integrated curriculum allows full depth in both fields without elongating the four-year timeline.
Ranking Insight: Illinois consistently ranks top 20 for CS research funding and top 25 for chemistry productivity. Dual-degree holders graduate with credentials spanning two top-20 disciplines at a university with a strong reputation among US and international employers. For Indian students in tech and chemistry, this pairing is particularly valuable for multinational pharmatech and chemical informatics roles.
Check Out: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign World Rankings and Reputation
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Chemistry at Illinois represents a rare combination of two top-20 disciplines, strong scholarship opportunities, and clear post-graduation visa pathways for tech-focused careers. For Indian students weighing this programme: if your goal is software engineering with a science grounding, Illinois delivers both cheaper pathways than Stanford or MIT and earlier OPT eligibility than many alternatives. If your goal is chemistry research, the CS component opens pharmatech and materials startup roles unavailable to pure-chemistry graduates. Ideal candidates are strong in both math and lab work, comfortable with heavy coursework in first two years, and strategic about specializing after sophomore year.
Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computer Science and Chemistry FAQs
Ques. Can I apply to the Computer Science and Chemistry dual-degree programme if my school does not offer chemistry at the 12th-grade level?
Ans. Yes, many admitted students have limited chemistry exposure at secondary school. Illinois’s first-year programme includes foundational chemistry (CHEM 101) designed for non-specialists. Strong math skills and demonstrated science curiosity are more important than prior chemistry experience.
Ques. What is the workload difference between Computer Science alone and the dual-degree programme?
Ans. The dual degree requires approximately 130–135 total credit hours versus 120 for single-major CS. This translates to one additional course per semester in years 3 and 4. Most students manage the load by staggering electives and summer courses. Some complete the degree in five semesters (4.5 years).
Ques. Are there visa or work restrictions specific to chemistry graduates that I should know before enrolling?
Ans. Education and teaching roles do not qualify for STEM OPT extension (only 12-month standard OPT). However, research scientist, quality assurance, and pharmatech roles do qualify. If your post-graduation goal is teaching or pure academia, research visa pathways with your university’s international student office before enrolling.
Ques. Can I pursue a PhD immediately after finishing this bachelor’s degree?
Ans. Yes, the dual-degree coursework is research-intensive enough to prepare for PhD programmes in chemistry, computational chemistry, or chemistry informatics. Many Illinois CS+Chemistry graduates enter top-50 chemistry PhD programmes at Stanford, MIT, Caltech, and UC campuses. Graduate funding typically covers full tuition plus a living stipend of US$30,000–US$35,000 annually.
Ques. What scholarships are specifically reserved for Computer Science and Chemistry dual-degree students?
Ans. No scholarships are exclusively for dual-degree students. You compete for merit aid in the same pools as single-major students. ACES departmental scholarships (US$2,000–US$8,000) are sometimes awarded by the Computer Science or Chemistry departments; most Indian dual-degree admits receive between US$15,000 and US$20,000 in combined merit aid from the university. Request departmental consideration in your application essays.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | ₹4436677 (USD 46944) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Books and supply | ₹113412 (USD 1200) |
| Other Fees | ₹268408 (USD 2840) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | ₹2963267 (USD 31354) |

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