$46,944 /Yr
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Bachelor of Arts (B.A) Jewish Studies is a four-year, full-time undergraduate degree offered in Urbana, Illinois. International students pay approximately US$39,392 to US$49,742 annually in tuition and fees (INR 37.52 Lakhs to INR 47.46 Lakhs). The program admits students annually across Fall and Spring intakes. Entry requires TOEFL 100 or IELTS 7.5 and a 3.0 GPA. Applications are competitive, with particular pathways for Indian students in humanities and Jewish cultural studies.
This degree trains graduates for careers in law, nonprofit leadership, cultural organizations, education, and international relations. The Jewish Studies major distinguishes itself through rigorous textual analysis, historical depth, and engagement with contemporary issues in Jewish communities worldwide. Ideal applicants combine strong academic credentials with genuine interest in religious studies, history, and cross-cultural dialogue.
- Holistic admission process that values demonstrated intellectual curiosity beyond test scores.
- Significant merit-based aid available to international students; average award US$22,060 (INR 21.04 Lakhs).
- F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) available for up to 12 months post-graduation in nonprofit, government, or cultural sectors.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student deadline: 31 January 2027.
Indian applicants should note that Fall 2026 deadline (May 15, 2026) has passed. Spring 2027 intake deadline is expected October 1, 2026 based on historical patterns. WES credential evaluation takes 15 to 20 business days; plan accordingly.
Also Check: University of Illinois Admission Requirements
University of Illinois Bachelor of Arts Jewish Studies Fees and Living Costs 2027
International undergraduates at UIUC pay tuition, mandatory fees, and health insurance annually. The all-inclusive cost of attendance exceeds US$58,000 per year. Below is a breakdown of major cost components.
| Fee Component | USD Annual | INR Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (International Rate) | US$34,338–US$35,872 | INR 32.77 Lakhs–INR 34.23 Lakhs |
| Mandatory Fees | US$5,054 | INR 4.82 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance (est.) | US$2,000 | INR 1.91 Lakhs |
| Tuition + Fees Subtotal | US$39,392–US$49,742 | INR 37.58 Lakhs–INR 47.46 Lakhs |
| On-Campus Housing | US$11,000–US$16,000 | INR 10.50 Lakhs–INR 15.25 Lakhs |
| Books & Supplies (est.) | US$1,800 | INR 1.72 Lakhs |
| Living & Personal (est.) | US$2,500–US$3,500 | INR 2.39 Lakhs–INR 3.34 Lakhs |
| Total Cost of Attendance (Annual) | US$58,616–US$68,966 | INR 55.90 Lakhs–INR 65.82 Lakhs |
Source: University of Illinois Office of Admissions, Urbana-Champaign campus, 2026–2027 academic year
- Housing on campus costs approximately US$11,000 to US$16,000 per year; off-campus rentals near campus run US$450 to US$600 monthly.
- International students are eligible for merit scholarships that reduce the net cost; average award US$22,060 per year.
- Many Jewish Studies majors pursue internships in Chicago and across Illinois during breaks, creating work-study opportunities.
- Four-year total cost of attendance falls between INR 2.24 Crores to INR 2.63 Crores for tuition, fees, and living expenses combined.
Honest Take: UIUC tuition for international students is moderate compared to private US universities. Four years cost approximately INR 2.4 Crores. Factor in currency fluctuation and living cost inflation; total out-of-pocket expense averages INR 2.50 Crores.
Cost of Living in Urbana for Jewish Studies Students
| Expense Category | Monthly USD (Low) | Monthly USD (High) | Monthly INR (Low) | Monthly INR (High) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | US$450 | US$600 | INR 42,890 | INR 57,186 |
| Groceries | US$200 | US$300 | INR 19,062 | INR 28,593 |
| Transportation (Bus Pass) | US$20 | US$25 | INR 1,906 | INR 2,383 |
| Personal & Misc. | US$200 | US$300 | INR 19,062 | INR 28,593 |
| Total Monthly (est.) | US$870–US$1,225 | INR 82,920–INR 116,755 |
Cost Reality for Indian Students: Urbana is a college town with lower living costs than major US metros. Student housing runs US$450 to US$600 monthly. Total monthly living expenses including food, transport, and personal items range US$870 to US$1,225 (INR 83,000 to INR 117,000). Plan for currency fluctuations when budgeting INR equivalents.
Read More: Complete Cost of Living in the USA for International Students
University of Illinois Bachelor of Arts Jewish Studies Admission
UIUC admits international undergraduates through a holistic review process. Academic credentials, English language proficiency, and demonstrated interest in the major are equally weighted. The Jewish Studies program particularly values applicants with coursework in history, literature, or humanities.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign holds a ranking of 36th overall in the United States (US News 2026) and 70th globally (QS World Ranking 2026). The university is a land-grant institution with a strong humanities tradition.
| Academic Requirement | Minimum / Range |
|---|---|
| GPA (High School / Equivalent) | 3.0 and above |
| SAT (Optional but Recommended) | 1,100 and above |
| ACT (Optional but Recommended) | 24 and above |
| TOEFL iBT (2026 Format or Later) | 100 overall; 20+ per section |
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.5 overall; 6.5+ per component |
| Duolingo English Test | 110 and above |
- TOEFL and IELTS are the primary English language proficiency measures for Indian applicants.
- Minimum TOEFL writing and speaking band scores (20 each) are especially important for humanities coursework and classroom participation.
- GPA of 3.0 or above from recognized international boards (ICSE, CBSE, A-Levels, IB) strengthens the application; competitive admits often hold 3.5+.
English Language Proficiency Block
Applicants whose native language is not English must submit an approved English language test. UIUC accepts TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), and Duolingo English Test. All three are recognized globally and administered through secure testing centers in India.
| Test Name | Overall Score (Minimum) | Per-Component Minimum | Preparation Timeline (India) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 100 | Reading 20, Writing 20, Speaking 20, Listening 20 | 8 to 12 weeks |
| IELTS Academic | 7.5 | Listening 6.5, Reading 6.5, Writing 6.5, Speaking 6.5 | 8 to 12 weeks |
| Duolingo English Test | 110 | Literacy 90, Conversation 90 | 4 to 8 weeks |
- TOEFL iBT is the most common test among international humanities students and is widely recognized by UIUC; prepare with official practice tests from ETS.
- IELTS is preferred by students in Commonwealth education systems; the Academic version is required, not General Training.
- Duolingo is the fastest test to prepare and schedule; UIUC accepts it at 110+, though TOEFL or IELTS is preferred for humanities.
Tip for Indian Students: TOEFL and IELTS test registrations in India fill quickly during peak seasons (July to September). Register 3 months in advance for your target test date. Band score 7.5+ in IELTS or 100+ in TOEFL is competitive for humanities programs.
University of Illinois Bachelor of Arts Jewish Studies Application
The Common Application platform is used for all UIUC undergraduate admissions. International applicants submit the same application as domestic students. Deadlines vary by intake and application track.
| Intake | Application Deadline | Application Status | Notes for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | May 15, 2026 (Standard) | Closed | Deadline passed; if in progress, contact admissions |
| Spring 2027 | October 1, 2026 (Expected) | Not Yet Open | Plan to submit applications 2 to 3 months early due to WES evaluation |
| Fall 2027 | January 31, 2027 (Standard) | Open | Priority deadline January 31; submit by December for scholarship consideration |
| Fall 2027 | February 7, 2027 (Materials Due) | Open | All supporting documents (transcripts, test scores) must arrive by this date |
- All applications require official transcripts, TOEFL or IELTS score, and a personal essay on why Jewish Studies interests you.
- WES (World Education Services) evaluation of Indian high school transcripts adds 15 to 20 business days to processing; submit early.
- UIUC does not require SAT or ACT for test-optional admission, but submitting scores strengthens applications for scholarship consideration.
Application Tip: January 31, 2027 is the standard Fall 2027 deadline, but scholarship funding is reserved for early applications. Target December 31, 2026 to maximize aid eligibility.
University of Illinois Bachelor of Arts Jewish Studies Scholarships
UIUC offers merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate students. The average aid package is US$22,060 per year (INR 21.04 Lakhs). Scholarships are awarded based on academic credentials, test scores, and demonstrated interest in the major.
| Scholarship Type | Award Range (Annual USD) | Award Range (Annual INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholar Award | US$10,000–US$15,000 | INR 9.53 Lakhs–INR 14.30 Lakhs | Top 5% GPA, 1,400+ SAT (if submitted) |
| Illinois Commitment Award | US$5,000–US$10,000 | INR 4.77 Lakhs–INR 9.53 Lakhs | GPA 3.5+, strong essay on major interest |
| ACES Departmental Scholarship | US$2,000–US$8,000 | INR 1.91 Lakhs–INR 7.62 Lakhs | Admitted to humanities or social sciences; demonstrated leadership |
| Average Merit Aid (All Recipients) | US$22,060 | INR 21.04 Lakhs | All admitted international students |
- Scholarships are awarded from the institutional aid pool and do not require separate applications; merit aid is automatic upon admission.
- Jewish Studies majors competing for departmental scholarships should highlight cultural interest, volunteer experience, or relevant coursework in essays.
- Renewable annually contingent on maintaining a 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment; total four-year scholarship can reach INR 84+ Lakhs.
Scholarship Reality: Average merit aid of US$22,060 covers roughly 45% to 55% of annual tuition and fees. International students typically finance remaining costs through family resources, student loans, or part-time on-campus work (up to 20 hours per week during the semester).
Check Out: UIUC Merit Scholarships for International Students
University of Illinois Bachelor of Arts Jewish Studies Salary and Placements
Jewish Studies graduates from UIUC pursue diverse careers in law, nonprofit management, education, government, publishing, and international relations. Employment outcomes reflect the flexibility of a liberal arts degree combined with rigorous textual and cultural analysis.
| Career Path | Typical Entry-Level Gross Salary (USD) | Typical Entry-Level Gross Salary (INR) | Industry Sector |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nonprofit Director / Program Manager | US$35,000–US$45,000 | INR 33.36 Lakhs–INR 42.89 Lakhs | Jewish organizations, international development, civil rights |
| Law School Graduate (3 Years Post-Grad) | US$90,000–US$120,000 | INR 85.78 Lakhs–INR 1.14 Crores | Corporate law, public interest law, government counsel |
| Government / Policy Analyst | US$40,000–US$55,000 | INR 38.12 Lakhs–INR 52.42 Lakhs | State department, think tanks, human rights agencies |
| Education / Secondary Teacher | US$38,000–US$52,000 | INR 36.21 Lakhs–INR 49.59 Lakhs | Private schools, Hebrew schools, cultural organizations |
| Publishing / Media Analyst | US$35,000–US$48,000 | INR 33.36 Lakhs–INR 45.79 Lakhs | Academic presses, Jewish media, digital platforms |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (USA), PayScale.com, self-reported UIUC alumni surveys, 2025–2026
- Gross salary figures represent full-time employment in the United States; take-home income is typically 60% to 70% after federal and state taxes, health insurance, and retirement contributions.
- Many Jewish Studies graduates pursue graduate education (law, divinity, public policy); median starting salary increases to US$90,000+ after professional degrees.
- Nonprofit and education roles offer lower entry salaries but strong mission alignment; law and consulting paths yield higher earning potential within 5 years.
ROI Reality: Four-year tuition and living costs total approximately INR 2.4 Crores. Entry-level nonprofit and education roles yield INR 33 to INR 53 Lakhs gross annually. Six to eight years post-graduation, with graduate education or career advancement, annual income typically reaches INR 70+ Lakhs. Total four-year cost is recovered over 3 to 4 years in professional roles.
Read More: UIUC Graduate Employment and Outcomes
United States Visa for Jewish Studies Graduates
International students at UIUC are sponsored for F-1 Student Visas. Upon graduation, graduates transition to post-study work permits or skilled-worker visas. The pathway depends on employment sector and employer sponsorship.
- F-1 Student Visa: Granted for the full duration of studies. Allows up to 20 hours per week on-campus employment during semesters and full-time work during official breaks (winter and summer).
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Twelve months of full-time work available post-graduation in any field related to the degree. Jewish Studies graduates use OPT in nonprofit, government, media, and education sectors. Cannot be extended beyond 12 months for non-STEM fields.
- H-1B Skilled Worker Visa: Requires employer sponsorship. A nonprofit organization, education institution, or cultural body must petition for H-1B status; typical salary threshold is approximately US$60,000. Jewish Studies graduates pursuing nonprofit leadership or government roles rarely qualify for H-1B due to the education sector exclusion from STEM extension.
- Spouse and Dependent Visa: F-2 visas available for spouses and unmarried children; dependents cannot work on F-2 status.
Visa Reality: F-1 students have a 60-day grace period after degree completion. OPT provides twelve months to secure employment and sponsorship. For roles in Jewish education or nonprofit work, employer sponsorship for long-term work visas can be challenging; many graduates return to India, pursue further study in the US, or seek work in countries with more accessible skilled-worker pathways.
Also Check: Complete F-1 Student Visa Guide for India
University of Illinois Bachelor of Arts Jewish Studies Ranking 2027
Jewish Studies as a discipline does not hold subject-specific rankings from QS, THE, FT, ARWU, or US News. However, UIUC’s humanities programs and religious studies offerings are consistently recognized as strong by peer institutions.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ranks 36th overall in the United States (US News 2026) and 70th globally (QS World 2026). Within humanities, UIUC holds particularly strong positions in languages, history, and cultural studies. The Jewish Studies program benefits from the university’s broader research strengths and faculty expertise in textual analysis and Middle Eastern history.
Honest Take: Subject-level rankings for Jewish Studies are not published by major ranking organizations. Enroll based on faculty expertise, curriculum quality, and career outcomes rather than rankings. UIUC’s liberal arts tradition and strong humanities faculty provide excellent preparation for Jewish Studies.
What Matters for Jewish Studies at UIUC: A Jewish Studies degree combines rigorous training in textual analysis, history, and cultural critique. Graduates succeed in law, nonprofit leadership, and policy work because the major develops argumentation skills applicable across sectors. Enroll if you value intellectual depth, diverse perspectives, and career flexibility in service-oriented fields.
Bachelor of Arts Jewish Studies FAQs
Ques. Can Indian international students work on campus during studies?
Ans. Yes. F-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic semester and full-time during official breaks. Typical hourly wages are US$15 to US$17 (INR 1,430 to INR 1,620 per hour). Common on-campus roles include library assistant, administrative support, and research help in humanities departments.
Ques. Is it possible to stay in the USA after graduation?
Ans. Yes, through Optional Practical Training (OPT). All Jewish Studies graduates are eligible for 12 months of full-time work in roles related to their degree, such as nonprofit positions, cultural organizations, or government roles. After OPT, remaining in the USA requires employer sponsorship for an H-1B visa or pursuit of graduate education on an F-1 extension.
Ques. What languages are taught in the Jewish Studies program?
Ans. Hebrew is the primary language taught within the Jewish Studies major. Modern Hebrew covers reading, writing, and conversational competency at intermediate levels. Biblical Hebrew is offered for advanced students. Yiddish is occasionally available as an elective. Language training is integrated into cultural and literary courses.
Ques. Can I pursue a double major in Jewish Studies?
Ans. Yes. UIUC encourages double majors and minors in combination with Jewish Studies. Popular combinations include History, Political Science, Philosophy, and Comparative Literature. A double major requires approximately 18 additional credits beyond the Jewish Studies core and adds no extra semester length if planned carefully.
Ques. What percentage of UIUC graduates are Indian or from South Asia?
Ans. Approximately 1,200 Indian undergraduates are enrolled at UIUC across all majors as of 2026. The Jewish Studies major enrolls a smaller cohort, roughly 30 to 50 Indian and South Asian students annually across all four class years. Strong Indian student presence on campus supports cultural organizations, shared housing, and peer mentoring networks.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $46944 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $31354 |
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Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,000/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| R&D Systems Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,500/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| BL Mandhana Scholarships | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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