The Bachelor of Liberal Studies is designed for transfer and reentry students who are ready to complete their degree, on their terms.
Requirements for application
To be considered for admission, you must:
- Have at least 12 graded, transferable credit hours at the time of enrollment
(Note: AP and proficiency credits do not count toward this requirement) - Hold a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale) based on all graded, transferable coursework
- Provide all previous transcripts and proof of high school completion or GED
- Complete essays on application
Application dates
Spring 2027 start: Sept. 1-Oct. 15, 2026
Students who have attended Illinois before who have been inactive for two semesters or more should:
- Complete the LAS Re-Entry Application Form instead of the traditional transfer application
- Note that admission into this program is contingent upon additional factors, which may include academic standing rules and performance patterns prior to leaving and before reentry.
No matter where you're coming from, we’re here to help! If you have questions about eligibility or the application process, don’t hesitate to contact us.
How much does the program cost?
At just $433 per credit hour (plus $3 in student fees per credit hour), the Bachelor in Liberal Studies is designed to be one of the most accessible and affordable paths to finishing your degree.
Students may be eligible for financial aid programs including Illinois Promise Tuition, and U of I employees may be approved for a tuition waiver for the program.
Are books an additional cost?
While book costs are not included in tuition and may apply to select courses, we work to keep them as low as possible, and many classes use free or low-cost online resources.
What makes the Bachelor of Liberal Studies unique?
The Bachelor of Liberal Studies is 100% online, making it easier to earn your degree from wherever you are. Built on the strength of the liberal arts and sciences at the University of Illinois, the program offers a broad, interdisciplinary education that helps you think critically, adapt across fields, and pursue what’s next with confidence.
Visit the Why choose the Bachelor of Liberal Studies? page for more information about what makes the program unique.
How is the curriculum organized?
You can expect to complete:
- Fully online, asynchronous courses that mirror the general education requirements of on-campus students, offering a flexible path that fits your own interests
- A 44-credit core curriculum that spans courses in communication, equity and inclusion, data and decision-making, critical thinking, and leadership
- A concentration of your choice that aligns with your goals and allows you to dive deeper into areas that match your interests and future plans
Most courses are offered in an 8-week format, giving you extra flexibility to build a schedule that works for you.
Visit the courses and concentrations page for more information on the Bachelor of Liberal Studies curriculum.