SIU Launches AI API Gateway

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Last Updated: Aug 27, 2026, 01:46 PM

SIU School of Computing Launches AI API Gateway

CARBONDALE, Ill. — August 26, 2026

Orientation graphic titled “Connect almost any developer tool” with the subtitle “Most clients need the same three settings.” On the left side are three required configuration items: Base URL https://api.cs.siu.edu/v1 API key Your individually assigned key Model ID Returned by GET /v1/models Arrows from all three items point to a central box containing: AI SIU LiteLLM Qwen 3.8 27B Arrows from the central box point to four categories of developer tools on the right: API basics cURL · Python · JavaScript · Postman IDE assistants Continue · Cline · Kilo · Roo Terminal agents OpenCode · Aider Advanced Claude Code · Codex CLI A highlighted note at the bottom states: Start with the API quick test Verify your key and model ID with cURL before configuring an IDE or coding agent. This separates account problems from client configuration problems. Footer text: SIU AI API • api.cs.siu.edu Illustrated configuration map — product menus may move as software updates.
The SIU AI API Gateway connects applications and developer tools to a university-hosted AI model through an OpenAI-compatible interface.

The Southern Illinois University School of Computing has launched the SIU AI API Gateway, giving users a common interface for building applications and experimenting with generative artificial intelligence. The service connects supported software to the School of Computing’s hosted Qwen 3.8 27B deployment through an OpenAI-compatible API powered by LiteLLM.

The gateway can be used with programming languages, REST clients, integrated development environment assistants, and coding agents. The accompanying end-user guide includes examples for cURL, Python, JavaScript, Postman, LangChain, LangGraph, Continue, Cline, OpenCode, Aider, Kilo Code, Roo Code, Claude Code, and Codex CLI.

Getting started

Users need three values to connect: the OpenAI-compatible base URL, an individually assigned API key, and the exact model ID returned by the gateway. The base URL is https://api.cs.siu.edu/v1. Because model access can vary by key, users should retrieve the available model ID from GET /v1/models rather than guessing it.

Designed for learning, research, and development

The API Gateway provides one consistent connection point for course projects, software prototypes, research workflows, and supervised exploration of AI-assisted development tools. Users can begin with a simple cURL request and then move to an SDK or supported client without changing the core service.

The end-user guide provides configuration instructions, working examples, troubleshooting steps, and guidance for responsible use. It also explains how to diagnose authentication, model-selection, rate-limit, compatibility, and service errors.

Use the service responsibly

Each API key must be treated like a password and must not be shared or placed in source code, screenshots, assignments, or public repositories. Users should not submit protected, regulated, confidential, or otherwise restricted information unless the data owner and applicable SIU policy explicitly permit that use. Coding agents should be supervised, and generated work must follow course academic-integrity requirements.

Screenshot of the LibreChat web interface open in a Chrome Incognito window at `chat.cs.siu.edu/c/new`. The browser tab is labeled “LibreChat,” and “Incognito” appears at the upper right. In the LibreChat interface, a left navigation sidebar contains “Projects,” “Chats,” and “Today,” followed by three conversation entries labeled “New Chat,” “New Chat,” and “Hi.” A user avatar with the initials “MB” appears at the bottom left. At the top of the main chat area, the selected model is “Qwen3.8-27B.” Centered on the page is the message, “Use your individual LiteLLM virtual key; never share it.” Below it is a large message-entry box with the placeholder text “Message University LiteLLM,” along with controls for options, microphone input, and sending a message. At the bottom of the page is the notice, “AI-generated responses may contain mistakes. Check important information.”
Figure: LibreChat interface with the Qwen3.8-27B model selected.

Accessing LibreChat 

LibreChat is available at chat.cs.siu.edu (Note: Campus/VPN connection is required). Students must self-register for an account on the website and provide their individually assigned LiteLLM virtual API key before using the service. API keys are unique to each student when enrolled in AI+ degree program courses that require access.

For access information, documentation, or assistance getting started, contact the School of Computing at socinfo@siu.edu.

 

Media Contact: School of Computing Communications • socinfo@siu.edu