Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
Given University of Illinois Springfield's 84.4% acceptance rate, most academically prepared students can expect admission. However, students seeking different options should consider alternatives based on location, cost, or outcomes.
These schools offer higher acceptance rates while delivering comparable career outcomes.
For even more accessible admission, consider Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville (97.2% acceptance, $56,346 median earnings) located 68 miles away with nearly identical outcomes. Fontbonne University in Missouri admits 95% of applicants while producing graduates earning $48,825, though at higher cost. Grand Valley State University (94.7% acceptance, $56,118 earnings) offers similar outcomes with comparable accessibility.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
Students preferring to stay in Illinois should consider Eastern Illinois University (67.8% acceptance, $51,989 earnings) 79 miles away, or Illinois State University (89% acceptance, $62,117 earnings) 63 miles away with potentially stronger outcomes. Both offer similar program focuses within the state system and comparable institutional cultures.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber
