Campus Life at UIC Chicago

The UIC campus in Chicago boasts a diverse student population living and learning on a vibrant campus located near the center of a global city. There are many ways you can get involved at UIC and enjoy our urban campus.

Many sides of campus Heading link

aerial view of UIC campus with Chicago skyline

The UIC campus is spread across 244 acres just southwest of downtown Chicago. People often refer to the various “sides” of campus when giving directions or explaining the location of a particular building. The east and south sides of campus are home to the arts and humanities, basic sciences, business, social work, education, engineering and urban planning. On the west side of campus you will find the health sciences colleges and hospital. The UIC John Marshall Law School is known as our campus in “the Loop,” or Chicago’s downtown business district. The Office of International Services is located between east and west campus in the Student Services Building.

Student involvement Heading link

There are many student organizations, events, programs, and clubs to help you get involved, build a community, and make an impact during your time at UIC. Your hub for campus events and student organizations is the Center for Student Involvement. If leadership and service is your passion, check out Student Leadership and Civic Engagement. UIC is also home to 30 fraternities and sororities which represent a diverse range of interests and members. The Undergraduate Student Government and Graduate Student Council are great ways to build advocacy skills and shape student life at UIC. Lastly, the Office of International Services hosts programs that connect, support, and engage the UIC international community.

Commuter and off-campus life Heading link

five students walking, biking and skating

Commuter and Off-Campus Life supports students that commute to UIC from off-campus locations such as family homes or private apartments. They provide facilities for commuters to store belongings, eat, and study and host events to help foster connection. They can also help you find your off-campus apartment!

Centers for cultural understanding and social change Heading link

The seven Centers for Cultural Understanding and Social Change are a collaborative group that aims to make UIC a welcoming and inclusive place for all students, faculty and staff. The Centers are committed to student success, intercultural engagement, vibrant scholarship, and dynamic community partnerships. Explore the different Centers and consider getting involved with their dynamic work.

Athletics and recreation Heading link

students playing rugby on a grass field

Whether you are an athlete or a fan, there is a lot to get excited about when it comes to sports at UIC. The UIC Flames compete in 20 NCAA Division I sports and game tickets are free for students. If you go to a game, you may find yourself cheering on a fellow member of the UIC international community as many UIC student athletes are international students too! If you would rather play than watch, you can join an intramural sports club or work out at the Student Recreation Facility on the east side of campus or the Sport & Fitness Center on west campus.

Chicago is your campus Heading link

One of the most common pieces of advice we hear shared amongst the UIC international community is, “explore Chicago beyond campus!” We know it is easy to stick around UIC because so much of what you need is right here, but do not forget to take advantage of all that Chicago has to offer you. Get to know Chicago like a Chicagoan and venture out into the neighborhoods around UIC and other international favorites like West Ridge, home to Little India. You can also enjoy the outdoors year-round at Chicago’s parks, beaches, and cultural attractions.