GaTech vs UIUC for CS

College Search & Lists
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MODERATOR NOTE: Moved to new thread as the other was three years old and that poster had not been on CC since 2021.

I am also in same situation . Could you please let me know the main factors that led you to UIUC instead of GaTech . Also does GaTech has better reputation than UIUC . How about placement options and research that is happening in ML space in these unis .

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Both are excellent, top tier schools for CS. Look deeper into the curriculum and sequence of classes offered at each. They also differ in many ways (like location, weather, sports, etc), so consider other factors that are important to you.

Both schools provide excellent research and placement opportunities. However, since you used the word “unis” I’m going to assume you’re an international student. If yes, you can work for up to 3 years on OPT after you graduate, but will then need to find a sponsoring employer if you want to continue working in the U.S. That can be challenging, so keep that in mind.

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I am a fan of UIUC and know GA Tech to a lesser degree but they are both known as top notch peer CS programs. For me, it will come down to:

  • Cost - $52k GA vs. $56k-66k UIUC
  • Location - vibrant urban location vs. flat middle of nowhere mid-western city
  • Weather - Generall warmer south vs. cold Illinois winters
  • Course credits - compare how many pre-requisites you can get waived. Both schools have a ton of upper division courses but you will need room in your schedule to take them so skipping a bunch of lower div/univ requirements can be a meaningful differentiator
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I’ll add ease of travel to the excellent information already provided.

Atlanta has a busy international airport. The rail system runs from the airport and has a stop right by the GaTech campus (about 20 minutes, $2.50).

Depending on the OP’s priorities and home location, that may or may not be important.

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Definitely look at this now, rather than after you commit. I’ve seen many people on CC and Facebook parent groups assuming a student would get a lot of credit, and then coming back and saying “the school didn’t take all their AP/IB/DE credit” or “AP/IB/DE credit was not usable for major or breadth requirements that we expected.” It can make a significant difference in opening up space for upper div courses, thereby allowing a student to really take advantage of attending a school that is outstanding in their major.

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