Illinois State University
Video Play Icon4 Videos,
12 Photos
Illinois State University Logo

Illinois State University: Overview, Rankings, Fees & Courses

  • B Shiksha Grade
  • Verified IconAuthorized Partner
  • Institute Icon1000 acre campus
  • Estd. 1857
Talk to Expert IconTalk to Expert
Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 18 Sep '24, by Tasneem Hoda (Study Abroad Expert)

Illinois State University
What’s new?

To learn more about admissions at Illinois State University, click here

About Illinois State University

Accordion Icon V3
Year of establishment
1857
University website
Go to Website Link Arrow Icon
Student website
Go to Website Link Arrow Icon
Total foreign students
1000
Campus size
1000 acres
No. of campus
1
Scholarships available
42
Endowment value
USD 148 million
Scholarships granted
15161
Scholarship amount granted
USD 158 million
Application fees
USD 55
English proficiency test
Required
Accepted exams
SAT/ACT accepted
Optional
Total faculty
898
Faculty/Student ratio
19
UG/PG course ratio
0.13
Total criminal offences
531
Quick university statsInsights on student demographics, enrolment, and academic success
UG Race

Others

73%

Hispanic

12%

Black

10%

Asian

2%

UG Student residence

In state

95%

Out of state

3%

UG Age distribution

24 and under

95%

25 and over

4%

UG Applicant Icon

UG Number of Applicant

19596
grad RateIcon

Overall Graduation Rate

0.67
UG Enroll Icon

UG Enrollment

18055
PG Enroll Icon

PG Enrollment

2628
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Highlights

Q:   How hard is it to get into Illinois State University?

A: 

According to various sources, Illinois State University has an overall acceptance rate of around 86% making it less selective for international student admissions. Some of the general requirements to receive admission at the university are given as follows:

  • ACT/SAT scores 
  • Overall Student's GPA 
  • Letters of Recommendation 
  • High School Class Rank 
  • Additional Academic Factors 

Q:   How much is the Illinois State University tuition fee for international students?

A: 

The university offers over 165 undergraduates, more than 90 graduates, and around 10 doctoral programs in various specializations. Some of the popular specializations are Computer Science; Chemistry; Business Education; Biological Sciences; Information Systems; Business Administration; Psychology; Economics and more. The Illinois State University tuition fees range between INR 20L and INR 38L for UG, INR 12L, and INR 25L for PG. International students can check Illinois State University tuition fees for the popular programs from the below table:

Programs

First-year Tuition fees

MS (18 months-3 years)

INR 12 L - 20 L

BBA BTech (4 years)

INR 20 L - 23 L

PG Certificate (9 months-1 year)

INR 6 L - 25 L

MBA/PGDM (18-24 months)

INR 14 L - 17 L

B Sc (4 years)

INR 20 L - 23 L

PG8 (18 months-2 years)

INR 12 L - 25 L

MIM (18-24 months)

INR 14 L - 16 L

BA ( 4 years)

INR 20 L - 23 L

BBA (4 years)

INR 23 L

Q:   How long does it take to hear back from Illinois State University?

A: 

International applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and students can expect to hear a response within 3-4 weeks. However the admission process at Illinois State University takes a holistic approach, considering multiple factors in the student's profile. These factors include Leadership, Work experience, essays, LOR and interviews that the students give during their admission process. 

Q:   Which school is better, Eastern Illinois University or Illinois State University?

A: 

Both Eastern Illinois University and Illinois State University are reputed universities in Illinois. The universities are judged based on their acceptance rate, courses they provide, tuition fees, and placement rates. Students especially from India, look for universities that have easy selection criteria, affordable courses, and high placement rates. International students can refer to the below table for a comparison of both universities on different parameters:

Parameters

 Eastern Illinois University

Illinois State University

Acceptance Rate

68%

86%

Courses

UG programs-over 50

PG programs- around 36

UG programs-over 165

PG programs- over 90

Placement chances

Low

High

Tuition fee

UG programs-INR 9-13L

PG programs- INR 11-24L

UG programs-INR 20-38L

PG programs- INR 12-25L

Q:   What is the application process for Illinois State University from India?

A: 

International students can apply in undergraduate and postgradaute programs in fall, summer and spring semester. Students must fulfill the eleigibility to take the Illinois State University admissions. Below is the application process for Illinois State University:

For Undergraduate courses: 

Step 1:  Students can apply through the common application portal. 

Step 2: Go to the website and select the course the students are interested in.

Step 3: Make sure they meet the Entry requirements (Such as Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.)

 Step 4: Once they decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.  

 Step 5: Students can track the application's progress through the common portal. 

Step 6: After students apply, they will get an automated email from the Common app that they have received your application. 

For Postgraduate Courses

Step 1: Select the postgraduate programme students are interested in from the Illinois State University website.

Step 2: Ensure they meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as these vary depending on the course.

Step 3: Complete the online application providing your personal information.

Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), experience in your field and references.

Step 5: After applying, they will get an automated email from the university that they have received your application.

 Step 6: If their application is successful, students will receive an offer from Illinois State University. 

Illinois State University Scholarships

Explore scholarship opportunities at
this University
Alternative Star Icon42 exclusive scholarships availableAlternative Star Icon56.5 L worth total scholarship amount
Explore all scholarships

We have helped students get 30Cr+ in scholarships

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships

Q:   Which popular scholarships are offered by Illinois State University?

A: 

Some of the scholarships offered by Illinois State University are given below.

  • ISU - Undergraduate International Admissions Scholarships: The scholarship is valued up to USD 5,000 and is renewable for up to four years
  • ISU - Graduate International Admissions Scholarships: The scholarship is valued up to USD 5,000 and is renewable for up to four years
  • Young America International Scholarship: The Young America International Scholarship is valued at up to USD 5,000. This is a one-time award that can be added to other admissions scholarships.
  • ISU - Presidential Scholarship: The scholarship is valued at up to USD 48,000 (up to USD 12,000 per year, renewable for up to three additional years.
  • ISU - University Scholarship: The scholarship is valued at up to USD 40,000 (up to USD 10,000 per year, renewable for up to three additional years).

Q:   Do international students at ISU get scholarships?

A: 

Yes, international students at ISU can get scholarships at the undergraduate and graduate levels. However, for this, they need to get the minimum GPA as specified by the university. The scholarships at undergraduate and graduate levels are valued at up to USD 5,000. Another scholarship is available for high-achieving international undergraduates. This scholarship is known by the name Young America International Scholarship.

Q:   Does Illinois State University give full scholarships for international students?

A: 

Yes Illinois State University provides various UG and PG Scholarships for international students. Below are the listed scholarships:

undergraduate International Admissions Scholarships: This is valued up to $5,000 and is renewable up to 4 years. It is given to international undergraduate students scoring a minimum of 3.0 GPA on a scale of 4.0.

Graduate International Admissions Scholarships: This is valued up to $5,000 and is renewable for up to 2 years. It is given to international graduate students scoring a minimum of 3.5 GPA on a scale of 4.0.

Young America International Scholarships: A scholarship that is valued up to USD 5,000. It is offered to the highest-achieving international undergraduate students.

Illinois State University Admission Dates 2024

  • Application fees :USD 50
  • Type of deadline :Regular
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNeeded for few courses
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNeeded for few courses
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
Lock Icon
Sign-up to view details
Calendar IconImportant dates
Intake seasonDeadline
Fall15ᵗʰ Jan - 1ˢᵗ Apr 2025
Spring15ᵗʰ Oct 2023 - 1ˢᵗ Nov 2024
Summer1ˢᵗ Apr 2025
Admission details of all coursesRight Arrow Icon
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Admissions

Q:   What is the application deadline for Illinois State University?

A: 

Illinois State University accepts applications during the Summer, Fall, and Spring intakes for international students. Some of the important application dates at the university are given in the table below:

Spring Semester EventAdmission Deadline
Final document deadline for enrollmentJan 4, 2025

Q:   How much GPA is required for getting an offer letter at Illinois State University?

A: 

Apart from the overall Graduate School requirements, candidates applying to a master's programme must also have a minimum 2.8 GPA on a scale of 4.0 in their bachelor's. Also, those applying to a specialist program must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a scale of 4.0 other than the overall graduate school requirements.

Q:   What are the ELP requirements for admission to Illinois State University?

A: 

International students must submit any one of the following tests while applying for admission to Illinois State University.

These are the minimum scores required for these English proficiency exams.

Illinois State University Fees

Accordion Icon V3
Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MS(20 courses)
INR 9 L - 25 L
Duration18 months-3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 79 - 100, Duolingo: 105 - 120
M.A.(15 courses)
INR 12 L - 25 L
Duration18 months-2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 79 & Above
PG Certificate(23 courses)
INR 6 L - 25 L
Duration9 months-1 year
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above
B.Sc.(17 courses)
INR 20 L - 24 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above
BBA(14 courses)
INR 23 L - 24 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above
MBA/PGDM(6 courses)
INR 14 L - 18 L
Duration18-24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 79 - 100, GRE
B.A.(17 courses)
INR 20 L - 24 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above
B.E. / B.Tech(13 courses)
INR 20 L - 24 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, Duolingo: 105 - 140
MIM(5 courses)
INR 14 L - 18 L
Duration18-24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 79 - 100, GRE
B.Ed(5 courses)
INR 24 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above
Read more
View Course Wise Fees ->
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility

Q:   What are the MBA requirements at Illinois State University?

A: 
  • LOR: MBA applicant must submit an LOR, and with particular exceptions, who should write those letters. 
  • Statement of purpose ( an SOP): An SOP is essential for the application process for the Illinois Institute of Technology. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants. 
  • Transcripts and degrees: the applicant must provide the university with transcripts of their academics with degree certificates. Similarly, applying for PhD or doctoral programme may require a master’s degree and transcripts from all graduate institutions of the applicant.
  • English Language Proficiency exams: The following table explains the minimum score  of each English exam the university is accepting: 

Standardised Exams Accepted

Minimum Test Scores

TOEFL iBT

79

TOEFL Essentials

8.5

IELTS Academic

6.5

Duolingo (DET)

105

 

  • Entrance exam: GMAT or GRE scores are only required if students' undergraduate GPA or graduate GPA (minimum of 9 hours) is less than 3.0. 
  • Resume/CV:  The University also ask student for a CV or a resume depending on the course they choose for professional experience. 

 

Q:   What is the MBA application fee at Illinois State University?

A: 

The application fee for pursuing a Master of Science course at Illinois State University is USD 50 (INR 4K). This fee is an essential process for helping to cover administrative expenses and ensures evaluation of each candidate’s qualifications. Applicants are suggested to check the official website once before applying to avoid confusion in the last minute.  (USD 1=INR 83.45 on 10 Jun 2024).

Q:   Can I get into Illinois State University with a 2.5 GPA?

A: 

Illinois State University has different GPA requirements for undergraduate and graduate applicants. Freshmen applicants will be required to submit a self-reported average GPA of 3.3 or more out of 4.0. Other than the Graduate School requirements for international applicants, the graduate students are required to submit an average of 2.8 GPA out of 4.0. Students must check the graduate programme specific eligibility as the GPA can have a higher requirement and they might be required to submit their GRE or GMAT scores as well. 

Q:   What are the Illinois State University admission requirements?

A: 

International applicants who wish to apply at Illinois State University are required to submit the documents mentioned on the official website. Some of the requirements for international students at the university are given as follows:

  • Unofficial and Official Academic Records 
  • Academic Transcripts from all schools and institutions attended 
  • Proof of English Language Proficiency 
  • GRE/GMAT scores (vary by program)
  • 55% average percentage in Bachelors 
  • Additional supporting documents 

Q:   Is GRE required for Illinois State University?

A: 

GRE is one of the accepting exams for some of the courses of the university. However, it is not mandatory to qualify GRE for getting into Illinois State University. Candidates must check the course-wise requirements to know if GRE is an accepting exam for the course one is applying for. Apart from GRE, candidates who have qualified GMAT can also apply for postgraduate courses at Illinois State University.

Illinois State University Placements

Top Recruiters

Siemens
Visit official career services website External Link Icon
View placement detailsRight Arrow Icon
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Placements

Q:   What are the popular job sectors at Illinois State University?

A: 

Illinois State University offers employment to graduate students and alumni in some of the top industries or organizations within a few months of graduation. Some of the popular job sectors at the university are given as follows:

Others Denote Community and Social Services, Information Technology, Human Resources, etc. 

Q:   What are the graduation and retention rates at Illinois State University?

A: 

The retention rates of ISU remain among the highest in the nation at over 80.3%. Illinois State’s graduation rate is also high at 67%. The graduation rate is also above the national average.

Q:   Which are some of the top employers at Illinois State University?

A: 

Illinois State University has offered employment to alumni members in some of the top companies or organizations within and after a few months of graduation. Some of the top employers at the university are given as follows:

  • State Farm 
  • Caterpillar Inc 
  • OSF Healthcare 
  • AbbVie 
  • Aon 
  • Deloitte 
  • Microsoft 







Illinois State University Rankings 2025

BOverall University Grade
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Rankings

Q:   What is Illinois State University ranked in QS World?

A: 

Some of the recent QS World Rankings of Illinois State University are given in the table below:

Ranked by20232024
QS World University Ranking1201-14001401+

To check more rankings of the university, click here

Illinois State University
College comparison

Accordion Icon V3

Compare Illinois State University with other similar colleges

MS
M.A.
PG Certificate
B.Sc.
BBA
MBA/PGDM
B.A.
B.E. / B.Tech
MIM
B.Ed
College1st Year Tuition FeesShiksha GradeRanking

Illinois State University

INR 9.22 L - 25.15 LB#1401 QS, 2025
INR 12.5 L - 16.07 L-/- -/-

Murray State University

Double Arrow Icon Compare
INR 8.3 L - 17.66 L-/- -/-
INR 11.16 L - 28.84 LC++#299 US News, 2024

University of Illinois Springfield

Double Arrow Icon Compare
INR 10.43 L - 20.99 L-/- -/-

DePaul University

Double Arrow Icon Compare
INR 15.78 L - 36.84 LC#151 US News, 2024
The values are of the latest years available with Shiksha. For more details, check detailed comparison
View comparisonsRight Arrow Icon

Illinois State University
Studying in USA

Key Facts About USA

Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Education in USA
school Key Fact Icon
963+
backpack Key Fact Icon
3.38L
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
20 hours per week
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
12 months
Country stats
mapPin Key Fact Icon
Washington D.C.
keyUsers Key Fact Icon
334.23M (2023)
chartMixed Key Fact Icon
2%
letterA Key Fact Icon
English
Weather
December
CF
Popular LocationsMinMax
Boston-26
New York07
Chicago-33
Los Angeles920
Explore popular study abroad destinations

Illinois State University Notable Alumni

Accordion Icon V3
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Alumni

Q:   What are the famous alumni of Illinois State University?

A: 

The notable alumni of Illinois State University include names like Tricia Griffith (CEO and President of Progressive Corporation), Joe Reynolds (CEO and Founder of Red Frog Events), Zeke Upshaw (Professional basketball player), Moira Harris (Actress), Craig Robinson (Actor, The Office), Suzy Bogguss (Singer and Guitarist), etc.

Illinois State University FAQs

Q:   What is Illinois State University application fee?

A: 

New students are required to submit a non-refundable application fee or documentation for an application fee waiver. The application will not be processed until the application fee or fee waiver verification is received. This fee or waiver must be received by the supporting document deadline. Due to the Declaration of Finances required, International applicants are not eligible for an application fee waiver.

  • Undergraduate students must submit a nonrefundable $55 application fee. 

Graduate Application Fees

  • Athletic Training (ATCAS) - $93; $55 for each subsequent application
  • BusinessCAS (Any College of Business graduate program) - $83
  • Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSDCAS) - $137; $55 for each subsequent application
  • GradCAS (all other graduate programs) - $63
  • Visiting graduate students - $55

Q:   Is accommodation available at Illinois State University?

A: 

Illinois State University provides accommodation to international students. Here are the features of the campus accommodation:

  • All rooms are equipped with two beds, two desks, two chairs, two dressers, and two closets.
  • A linen service is available or participants may bring their own bedding.
  • Laundry facilities are also available in each area of campus. 
  • A 24-hour front desk is located in each building and provides information and other services.
  • Swimming, tennis, and golf are just a few of the recreational options provided at the university. Sailing, canoeing, and picnic facilities are located close to campus. 

Q:   What are some of the popular job roles in USA?

A: 

A few of the top job roles along with their average salaries for international students in the USA are given in the table below:

Top Paying Job Roles in USA

Average Starting Salaries

Lawyer

USD 126,930

Finance Manager

USD 120,644

Product Manager

USD 117,713

Management Consultant

USD 110,980

Data Scientist

USD 107,801

Q:   What are some of the important highlights for studying in USA?

A: 

USA has been one of the top choices for education of international students. Some of the highlights to note while studying in USA are given as follows:

Category

Data

Universities in USA

More than 3,000

Average Living Expense

INR 10.5 Lakhs (per annum)

Popular Courses in USA

MS/MBA/ BTech/MIM 

Part-time Work Allowance

20 hours/week

Work permit in USA post-study

12 months

USA Study Visa cost

INR 15,430

Q:   Does Illinois State University provide meal plans?

A: 

All students living on campus in a residence hall (Haynie, Hewett, Manchester, Watterson, Wilkins, and Wright) are required to purchase an on-campus student meal plan. As students living in Cardinal Court have a full kitchen in their apartments, meal plans are optional for those residents.

Students living in off-campus housing may choose to purchase an off-campus student meal plan.

Q:   What is the tuition fees for international students at Illinois State University?

A: 

The first year tuition fees for international students at Illinois State University are given as follows:

Courses1st Year Tuition Fees
BBA (14 courses)
INR 20 L - INR 24 L
BBA1 (17 courses)
INR 18 L - INR 23 L
BE/BTech (13 courses)
INR 19 L - INR 24 L
BBA1 (19 courses)
INR 12 L - INR 20 L
PG Certificate (23 courses)
INR 6 L - INR 25 L
BBA1 (15 courses)
INR 10 L - INR 15 L
MBA/PGDM (6 courses)
INR 14 L - INR 17 L
BBA17 (17 courses)
INR 22 L
MIM (5 courses)
INR 14 L - INR 17 L
BE/BTech6 (5 courses)
INR 22 L

Q:   What is the cost of living in USA for International students?

A: 

On average, a student spends approximately INR 93,000 in a month to fulfil living costs in USA. The cost of living in USA is 224.3% higher than the cost of living in India also the rent in USA is 769.9% higher than in India. Thus, it is natural that the cost of living in the USA is very high for an Indian student. The table given below specifies the estimated student cost of living in the USA that is based on different expenses.

Expenses in USA

Average Yearly / Monthly cost

Books and study material

USD 900 - 2,000 per year

Travel

USD 300 - 700 per year

Accommodation

USD 9,800 - 11,100 per year

Electricity

USD 100 - 150 per month

Food

On campus: USD 250 per month

Off-campus: USD 400 - 600 per month

Phone subscription

USD 50 per month

Home Internet

USD 45 - 50 per month

Health Insurance

USD 700 - 1,100 per year

Clothes

USD 500 per year

Water, Trash and Sewer

USD 50 - USD 75 per month

Note: These amounts will differ from state to state within the US. On average, the cost of Indian food in the USA is around USD 350 - USD 400 for one person. 

qna

Illinois State University

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered a month ago

Illinois State University is better than the University of Illinois in terms of acceptance rate, tuition fees. However, here is the table of comparison for both the universities: 

Name of The University 

Ranking

Acceptance rate 

Annual fees

Illinois State University

#1201-1400 in QS World University Rankings 

92%

INR 28 L-19.8 L - 24.3 L (UG)

INR 17.3 L ( PG)

University of Illinois

#317 QS World University Rankings 

78%

INR 19.8 L - 24.3 L (UG)

INR  21.6 L - 29.4 L (PG)

(A comparison of the Annual fee was on the BBA course for UG and MBA for PG  however, if students are looking for more co

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

The Illinois State University acceptance rate is 86% which suggests that it is a relatively less competitive institution. This also shows that the university has high standards for admission, and potential students should be prepared for admission. Early application can be a primary benefit as it gi

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Illinois State University offers a range of Undergraduate and Graduate degree courses for international students every year. Some of the popular majors at the university are given as follows:

  • Business and Management 
  • Marketing 
  • Education 
  • Health Professions and Related Programs 
  • Communication and Journal

...more

7770919
Tasneem Hoda

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

The Illinois State University acceptance rate is 86%. This shows that the university follows moderate selection criteria when it comes to ISU admission. Students with average academic performance still have some chances of selection, though they must fulfill the basic eligibility criteria. The param

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 months ago

International students from various backgrounds and countries seek Illinois State admission every year due to its reputation. Along with its reputation, Illinois State University has a lot of things to offer. Here are some best reasons to attend Illinois State University:

  • Placement rate: The universi

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

author image
Tasneem Hoda

Study Abroad Expert

Tasneem Hoda is a Content Creator and Writer working for Shiksha.com. Her role includes developing and maintaining web pages for international universities at the Shiksha Study Abroad Portal, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and alignment with instit...Read Full Bio

Illinois State University

Illinois State University Others(1)Main Building
Illinois State University Others(2)Front View
Illinois State University Others(3)Building
Illinois State University Others(1)
Illinois State University Others(2)

Illinois State University
Location

Accordion Icon V3
University CityNormal, Illinois, USA

Illinois State University
Campuses

Departments Icon1   Campuses
Illinois State University CampusUp Arrow Icon
Address

100 N University St, Normal, IL 61761, USA

Visit official site External Link Icon

Illinois State University
Contact Information

Address

100 N University St, Normal, Illinois 61761
Normal ( Illinois)

Go to College Website ->