As an Exploratory Studies (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.
- Talk to academic advisors who are experts in the requirements of the first two years of every program on campus.
- Take introductory courses geared toward personalized exploration strategies.
- Tailor your course schedule to multiple interests.
- Explore majors at Illinois for up to four semesters while staying on track to graduate.
- Join a community made up of students with a diverse range of interests.
- Attend events designed specifically for exploration of major opportunities.
Keep reading below to get answers to some of our frequently asked questions about the Exploratory Studies program at Illinois.
What is an exploring or undeclared student?
Being an undeclared student through EXP means that you will have the opportunity to explore and discover multiple areas of interest before declaring a major at Illinois. You will also receive support from our academic advisors to ensure you are on the right track.
Through EXP, you’ll do more than take general education courses! Your advisor will work with you to identify your interests and strengths 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, all while staying on track for graduation!
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 tools and resources page.
Who should apply to EXP?
Students who apply to EXP generally identify with one or more of the following statements:
- 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).
- I have multiple interests and talents.
- I want time to learn more about my options before declaring.
Who gets admitted to EXP?
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.
What scholarships are available to EXP students?
EXP students are eligible for all University-wide, admission-based scholarships.
What courses to EXP students take?
As an EXP student, you’ll take a mix of general education courses and classes that let you explore majors, minors, and pre-professional interests. Most students enroll in 14–16 credit hours (about 4–5 classes) each semester. No two schedules are the same—your classes will reflect your unique interests and goals!
Will my graduation be delayed if I start as an exploring student?
You’ll work closely with your advisors 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.
EXP 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.
Can EXP students study abroad?
Just like students in declared majors, undeclared students can and do take coursework abroad while staying on track for graduation. EXP 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 EXP students.
What if I have no idea what majors I might be interested in?
Your advisors 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 major selection tools and resources for recommended resources that will help you navigate the EXP experience.
When can I declare a major?
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 EXP for up to four semesters while staying on track for graduation. Fun fact: 87% of students who start in EXP never change their major again after declaring!
How will I explore my major(s) of interest?
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 tools and resources page.
Still Have Questions?
Have questions about visit options, admissions, or the Exploratory Studies program? Reach out to us anytime at exploring@illinois.edu — we’re happy to help!