Illinois State University
Normal, United States • Founded 1857 • World Rank #3213
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1857, the Illinois State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small city of Normal (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Illinois.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Illinois State University (ISU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Illinois State University (ISU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 167-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
ISU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
For visits or applications to Illinois State University, location and primary contact details are below. Open days are typically announced via social channels — follow them to receive event notifications.
Academic Details
Illinois State University's student body, faculty composition, and recognition framework are summarised below. Use this section to gauge institutional weight before drilling into specific programmes.
Academic Structures
Illinois State University's teaching units laid out by faculty and school. Deep hierarchies (faculty to school to department) versus flat structures affect administrative complexity for students.
Unit 6 items
- College of Applied Science and Technology
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business
- College of Education
- College of Fine Arts
- Mennonite College of Nursing
Programs Offered
Illinois State University's teaching programmes are listed below — search or scan by level. International student eligibility varies by programme — some require additional language or visa-pathway checks.
141 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 66 programmes
Showing 10 of 66.
Master's Degree 42 programmes
Showing 10 of 42.
Doctorate 9 programmes
Professional Doctorate 2 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 22 programmes
Showing 10 of 22.
How to apply to Illinois State University
The standard application path for Illinois State University, broken into five practical steps with the documents and channels you will need at each stage.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Illinois State University's catalogue includes 141 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Illinois State University's admissions process.
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3
Assemble your application package
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit your application
Submit your completed application through Illinois State University's official website at illinoisstate.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (309) 438 2111. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Illinois State University
Quick answers to the most common questions about Illinois State University — covering location, founding, ranking, programmes, and admissions context.
When was Illinois State University founded?
Illinois State University was established in 1857 (approximately 169 years ago).
Where is Illinois State University located?
Illinois State University is located in Normal, United States.
What is Illinois State University's control type?
Illinois State University is a public institution.
What is the student enrolment at Illinois State University?
Student enrolment at Illinois State University is around 20,000-24,999.
What is Illinois State University's ranking?
It ranks #3213 globally and #354 in United States.
How many faculties does Illinois State University have?
The institution comprises 6 academic units.
Is Illinois State University accredited?
Yes, Illinois State University is recognised by Higher Learning Commission.
Where can I learn more about Illinois State University?
You can find Illinois State University online at illinoisstate.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Below are the highest-ranked universities in the United States — natural comparison points for Illinois State University. Top institutions in the United States typically have the strongest international recognition and graduate-school placement.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Cross-credit recognition between National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) members reduces friction for students moving between universities. Illinois State University's membership often eases credit transfer to the institutions below.
Faculties at nearby universities
Within easy reach of Illinois State University, these institutions host comparable faculties and admissions structures — useful for regional shortlisting. Regional universities often coordinate on credit transfer and joint programme delivery.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Faculty publication output for Education & Teaching researchers at each the United States institution signals research-active culture. Active publication usually correlates with funded supervision capacity.
Universities Compared with Illinois State University
Comparable peer metrics — selectivity, yield, faculty awards — give a fuller picture than headline rankings alone. The universities below cluster around Illinois State University on most of these signals.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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