Incoming first-year students should apply for admission to the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and choose biology as your intended major.

You will take introductory courses in Integrative Biology (IB) and in Molecular & Cellular Biology (MCB). Just prior to sophomore year, students will consult with an advisor and decide between integrative biology, molecular & cellular biology, or the biology teacher education program for their final major.

By studying biology at Illinois, you'll experience a prestigious, highly customizable education that will allow you to follow your dreams.  We'll prepare you for a competitive job market by developing your technical, research, and analytical skills both inside and beyond the classroom.

How to apply Choosing a biology major  Financial aid 

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BEST Scholars in December 2021

BEST Scholar Program

Our highest achieving applicants receiving an offer of admittance will be invited to apply for a Biology, Experience, Scholarship, and Training (BEST) Merit Scholarship, which will include a $5,000 scholarship and a full year of mentorship from the directors of IB and MCB.  BEST scholarships incorporate Biology, Experience, Scholarship, and Training that assists new freshmen with navigating a research institution.
Staff and students with the mentor program celebrate the end of Fall 2022 semester.

Merit program

The Merit Program for Emerging Scholars is a challenging program for select undergraduates from groups that have been historically underrepresented in science, math, and engineering. To be invited into the program, students must have high academic potential and be committed to excellence. We aim to create a community of scholars where students collaborate to solve challenging problems, develop friendships based on common academic interests, and inspire each other to maintain a high level of commitment to excellence.