Congrats!
Welcome to the Division of Exploratory Studies! Your Illinois journey starts here.
In EXP, you’ll find a community of exploring peers and supportive academic advisors who will guide you as you begin your Illinois journey.
Choosing a major is quite literally, a MAJOR decision! Let us walk you through your next steps of this path.
Next Steps
Visit Exploratory Studies
Our Admissions team is excited to connect with you and help you discover your path to exploring majors at Illinois. We have a variety of in-person and virtual visit opportunities for you to choose from.
Please note that admitted student visits will become available starting on February 2, 2026 and will be offered regularly until the end of April 2026. You will need to sign-in to your MyIllini account to register for an admitted student visit.
Accept Your Offer
You can accept your offer of admission any time up until May 1. To do so, you must submit a nonrefundable acceptance fee of $150. If you were approved for an application fee waiver, the acceptance fee will be waived.
Sign Up For New Student Registration
During New Student Registration, you’ll meet with your academic advisor and register for courses.
New Student Registration sign-ups begin in mid-March. To sign up, you’ll need to take the following steps:
- Accept your offer of admission through your admitted checklist in myIllini.
- Claim and set your NetID and NetID password.
- Sign up for New Student Registration, again through your admitted checklist in myIllini.
Join a Community of Exploring Peers
Exploratory Studies partners with University Housing to offer a living-learning experience designed specifically for students who are exploring their academic and career options. Weston Hall’s Exploration Living-Learning Community (LLC) brings together students, advisors, and campus partners to create a supportive, engaging environment that extends exploration beyond the classroom.
Live with Explorers
A close-knit community of Exploratory Studies students navigating majors, interests, and goals side by side.
Learn Where You Live
Special sections of Exploratory Studies courses are taught right in Weston—exploration built into your routine.
Advising, Made Easy
EXP advisors hold office hours in Weston at important times each semester (mid-terms, course registration period, etc.), so support is always close by.
Community That Clicks
Build connections with fellow exploring students through a mix of socials, programs, and events, including some hosted by the Exploratory Student Association (ESA).
Exploring Majors at Illinois
What is Exploratory Studies (EXP)?
As an EXP student, you will be attending one of the top-rated universities in the nation while having the opportunity to fully explore all your majors of interest.
Meet Our Exploratory Studies Students
Exploratory Studies students go on to do amazing things and successfully transfer into majors all over the Illinois campus.
Student Support & Opportunities
Exploratory Studies has several support programs and outreach initiatives to keep our students connected and informed.
Additional Student Resources
Transfer Students
International Students
