The Grainger College of Engineering

Major Declaration

Choose Your Path

As a Grainger Engineering student, you’re positioned to make your mark on the world. Your next step? Joining one of our topflight engineering majors through the Interdepartmental Transfer (IDT) process. 

Our engineering programs span three foundational areas — mechanics, nature and information — with several programs bridging multiple domains. As you explore these areas during your time in Engineering Undeclared (EU), you’ll discover where your talents and aspirations lie. When you apply to IDT, you’ll be asked to list three potential majors, ranked in order of interest to you. 

For more information on exploring and selecting majors, visit the Major Exploration page.

Timeline for Transfer

First-time freshmen must complete at least two semesters in EU before applying for IDT. ICT students must complete at least one semester. You can stay in EU until the end of your fourth semester if needed, but all students must declare a major by the tenth day of their fifth semester.  

You can submit your IDT application during the semester in which you complete all your prerequisites. 

Prerequisites for Success

Required foundational classes for all majors in Grainger Engineering: 

  • General Chemistry 1 and lab (CHEM 102 & CHEM 103)*
  • Calculus 1 (MATH 220 or MATH 221)
  • Calculus 2 (MATH 231)
  • University Physics: Mechanics (PHYS 211)
  • Composition 1 (RHET 101 &102, RHET 105, ESL 111 & 112, ESL 115, CMN 111 & 112 or equivalent transfer course)
  • EU Exploration Class (ENG 100 or ENG 101, depending on entry year)
  • Additional major-specific requirements may apply. Learn more by speaking with your advisor.

*CHEM 103 is waived for students who earned credit for CHEM 102 through AP, IB or A-Level exams.

Program Standards

To best prepare for transfer, you should be in good standing with the EU program. 

  • Maintain at least a 2.5 Illinois GPA and a 2.5 Specialized GPA in all STEM courses.
  • Satisfy specific GPA or grade requirements for your intended major.
  • Earn a B- or higher in ENG 101 (ENG 100 for students entering as freshmen in fall 2025 or later)
  • Earn at least a C in foundational technical courses
  • Make appropriate progress in foundational and technical STEM coursework.
  • Meet with an EU advisor each semester. 

Crafting Your Application

Your application is your opportunity to demonstrate the drive and vision that defines a Grainger Engineering student. Prepare to articulate your passion for each of the three potential majors you’ve chosen. How will you use your education to drive influential ideas and impact the world through your chosen field? 

You will also need to detail your extracurricular activities. This could include involvement with clubs and organizations, prior employment, leadership roles, and more. Explain how they’ve shaped your aspirations and how they showcase your commitment to excellence. 

The application will also ask you to tell the story of your academic journey so far. Share how you’ve overcome challenges, pursued opportunities, and grown as a future engineer. 

The Journey Begins

This is about more than just changing majors. It’s about launching your journey to become one of tomorrow’s engineering leaders. Your EU advisors are here to guide you through every step, ensuring you’re prepared to join the ranks of accomplished Grainger Engineering alumni who transform the world through innovation and determination. 

To learn more about the IDT process, requirements, and application, consult the Declaring a Major Handbook.