Frequently Asked Questions

Students who apply to DGS generally identify with one or more of the following statements:

• I have multiple interests and talents.
• I want time to learn more about my options before declaring.
• I have strong career interests (like health or law) but am undecided about my undergraduate major.
• I am interested in Nursing (junior-year entry program).

First-year admission decisions are based on several factors, including high school grades, class rank, rigor of coursework, ACT or SAT scores (if provided), quality of essays, and quality of involvement and leadership experience. We like to see students who embrace the idea of exploration. Essays should clearly address a student’s reasons for choosing to be undeclared. Transfer admissions decisions are based on similar factors, but will also take into consideration your college coursework. 

You can find more information on important admissions criteria for DGS here.

DGS students are eligible for all University-wide, admission-based scholarships.

In DGS, you are going to take more than just general education courses. You will get first-hand experience in major, minor, and pre-professional coursework in your areas of interest and take several general education courses during their your first year. We recommend that students complete 14 to 16 credit hours (4-5 classes) each semester.

You’ll work closely with your advisor to design class schedules that meet graduation requirements. Strategically selecting general education and elective courses will allow you to explore multiple areas of interest while staying on track for graduation.

DGS students complete degrees in the same amount of time as declared majors. In fact, our 4-year graduation rate is on par with the campus average.

Just like students in declared majors, undeclared students can and do take coursework abroad while staying on track for graduation. DGS students are encouraged to consider summer, fall, winter, and spring study abroad programs. Each semester, the Study Abroad Office hosts an informational meeting specifically for DGS students.

Your advisor will work with you to identify your interests and abilities and the Illinois majors and minors that are well suited for them. Through personalized advising and a variety of additional resources, you will have an opportunity to more clearly pinpoint academic goals before declaring a major.

Review our exploration process for recommended resources that will help you navigate the DGS experience.

When you feel ready to declare, you may transfer to a major as early as the start of your sophomore year. You can explore majors through DGS for up to four semesters while staying on track for graduation. Fun fact: 87% of students who start in DGS never change their major again after declaring!

Major exploration can happen in a variety of ways. Whether through the classes you are taking, to the student groups you join, to the volunteer experiences you have, to the conversations you have with upperclass students. More information on how DGS helps students explore major options can be found on our major selection page.

There are several ways to connect with DGS. They include: 

• Virtual or on-campus visits
• Email
• Website
• Instagram

Sign up for a campus visit through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. If you can't find a visit option that works for you, email us and we will find a time that works for you.