Ways to give

What should I do if I can’t find the fund I want to support?

If you can’t find the fund you want to give to, please try to search for a fund. If that still doesn’t return the results you are looking for, you can manually write in the fund name and we will follow-up with you if we have any questions.

How do I set up a recurring credit card gift?

Using our secure online giving form, you can establish a recurring monthly or yearly credit card donation by checking the box to “Support Illinois Year Round with a Recurring Gift!” Your recurring donation will continue until you request it to be terminated.

How do I set up an electronic funds transfer (EFT) gift?

Through electronic funds transfer, Illinois offers you the opportunity to make a recurring without writing a check. Download an EFT authorization form or call (217) 244-1206 to request an EFT Authorization Form.

How do I make a gift through payroll deduction?

Payroll deduction is a convenient way to support Illinois if you work at the University of Illinois. Complete the payroll deduction authorization form or call (217) 244-1206 to request a payroll deduction form. Please note that it may take more than one pay period before your payroll deduction goes into effect.

How do I dedicate a tree or commemorative object at Illinois?

Through the Dedicatory Objects and Trees (DOT) Program, you can honor a person, organization, or meaningful connection with a lasting tribute on campus. Gifts support campus beautification while creating a visible recognition within the Illinois landscape. After submitting a request, we will guide you through the process and connect you with the University Landscape Architect.

What is the University of Illinois System-wide Financial Aid Policy?

The updated policy outlines how financial aid is awarded, clarifying that race, color, national origin, and sex cannot be used as criteria. Aid decisions must be based on approved factors such as financial need, academic merit, area of study, and other allowable criteria.

Is my gift tax-deductible if I live outside the United States?

In most circumstances, donors with income taxable in the United States may deduct their gifts to the University of Illinois from that income. We recommend that you check with a local tax professional for details specific to your country, or please contact us for more specific information about giving options from overseas.

In Europe, donors can utilize the University of Illinois Foundation UK Limited. More information is available at https://uif.org.uk/giving.

In Japan, the Japan Illini Club has partnered with the Council for Better Corporate Citizenship (CBCC), an organization founded by Keidanren (the Japan Business Federation), to create a vehicle for residents to contribute to the University of Illinois and benefit from a tax deduction in Japan.

What is a personal web code?

Some direct mail and telemarketing reminders give you the option of using a personal web code to make your gift. They make giving even easier. If you have received a personal web code on a gift form in one of our mailings please visit giving.illinois.edu/yourgift/ to make your gift. If you have received a personal web code in an email or on a gift form in a mailing from telemarketing please visit

Why am I receiving calls about giving?

Each year more than 100 student callers reach out to thousands of alumni and friends to ask them to pledge their support to the people and programs of Illinois. This experience gives our students the chance to develop skills in public relations, marketing, and customer service. Our student callers can update you on University life and current issues, as well as important priorities for the University.