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Ilinois State University

Normal, United States

  • Cost of Living$ 22,128
  • Tuition Fee From$ 18,012
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength20,683
  • Global Diversity-
  • Gender Ratio-

Overview

About

Illinois State University (ISU) is a public research institution with a rich history in Normal, Illinois. It was established in 1857 under the name Illinois State Normal University and holds the distinction of being the oldest public university in the state of Illinois. ISU places an emphasis on education and holds recognition as one of the United States' top ten largest contributors to the field of education, as acknowledged by the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education.

 

The university was initially established as a teachers' college and has since expanded into a diverse array of programmes spanning bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels. Illinois State University holds accreditation from the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education within the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Furthermore, the university's teacher preparation programmes are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and certified by the Illinois State Board of Education. 

 

Additionally, an impressive 260+ programmes within the university hold discipline-specific accreditations. These programmes are organised through 6 of its colleges, which are:

 

  • College of Applied Science and Technology
  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Business
  • College of Education
  • Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts
  • Mennonite College of Nursing

 

Acceptance Rate

Illinois State University acceptance rate stands at 92% and maintains an inclusive admissions policy. Typically, admitted students exhibit average SAT scores ranging from 1000 to 1200 or average ACT scores between 21 and 27. The university follows a rolling admissions application process with no fixed deadline.

 

Ranking

Illinois State University rankings hold a prestigious position in many publication lists. In the QS Ranking for 2022, it is placed among the top 251-300 universities in the United States. According to the U.S. News & World Report Rankings for the same year, the university ranks impressively at number 104 in the category of Top Public Schools and stands at #202 among National Universities. Additionally, the university is positioned at #401 in the Times Higher Education list.

 

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2023

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Facilities

The Illinois State University campus quadrangle, often referred to as "The Quad," serves as a well-liked outdoor gathering place for students. This location is a favoured destination for students seeking relaxation, studying, and engaging in casual sports activities on campus. The campus community frequently hosts outdoor events here, including the annual RSO showcase, Festival ISU and Concerts on the Quad, all of which enjoy significant popularity. Otherwise, these are Illinois State University’s facilities for students: 

 

  • Milner Library 
  • Residence Halls
  • Cardinal Court 
  • Over 400 registered student organisations
  • Horton Field House

Notable Alumni

Richard Roeper
Richard Roeper
American columnist and film critic
Jane Lynch
Jane Lynch
American actress and comedian
Cecilia Suárez
Cecilia Suárez
Mexican actress

Courses

Admission

Illinois State University Entry Requirements

ISU welcomes international students to apply for admission during both the fall and spring semesters. The application process for both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programmes is very similar. Below, we have outlined Illinois State University’s entry requirements that students should adhere to:

 

  • Official Academic Transcripts of High School
  • Letter (s) of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Proof of financial support
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • Test scores or GRE/ GMAT if asked by the university
  • Resume or CV showing work experience 
  • Any other country-specific or course-specific requirements

 

English Language Proficiency Test Scores

International students should also make sure to have the following scores attached while submitting the application:

 

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

79

 

Illinois State University Fees

Illinois State University’s fees for its top programmes are given below:

 

  • M.B.A - $25,140 /Yr
  • M.S Mathematics - Applied Statistics - $18,064 /Yr
  • M.S Mathematics - Biomathematics - $18,064 /Yr
  • M.Ed Teaching and Learning - $18,064 /Yr
  • B.A Physics Teacher Education - $27,574 /Yr
  • M.Ed Music - Master of Music Education - $18,064 /Yr

 

Placements

Illinois State University’s placements services offer students internship and job prospects. The institution also has annual career fairs happening on campus and provides students with valuable opportunities to connect with prospective employers. Notably, Illinois State graduates earn an average of $12,000 more than the national average income a decade after completing their education.

 

Scholarship

Illinois State University offers grants, scholarships and waivers for international students pursuing education in the USA. A significant portion, more than 78% of students benefit from financial aid provided by the university. It's important to note that international students are not eligible for the same financial aid packages as their domestic counterparts.

Here are some examples of these dedicated scholarships:


 

Name of the scholarship

Amount Offered

Undergraduate International Admissions Scholarships

$2,000 for four years

Graduate International Admissions Scholarships

$2,000

Young America International Scholarship

$5,000

 

UniScholars acts as a global marketplace for students applying for scholarships. You may find a range of 1500 and more external scholarships which are very much tailored to your choices. These scholarships act as financial aid for those going abroad, reducing the costs of studying abroad greatly. These are the various types at UniScholars:

 

  • Merit-based scholarships
  • Need-based scholarships
  • Country-specific scholarships
  • College-specific scholarships
  • Student-specific scholarships

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the university. UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for attractive interest rates and free consultation services!

 

Accommodation

Illinois State University provides housing options conveniently located on its  850-acre campus, all within walking distance of the university. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to choose from four distinct housing areas: Hewett-Manchester, Tri-Towers, Watterson Towers, and Cardinal Court residence halls.

 

UniAcco is the best shoulder to lean on when it comes to off-campus accommodation. If you’re searching for one right in the vicinity of your university, UniAcco is the place for you.  You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! 

 

Cost of Living

Normal, Illinois has a charming Midwestern character and serves as a welcoming backdrop for students pursuing their academic journeys. As you plan your studies in this friendly community, it's essential to consider the cost of living, including housing, groceries, transportation and other expenses that come with student life. Let's delve into these costs:

 

 

Particulars

Cost (Monthly)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

$1,297

On-Campus Accommodation

$1,090

Transportation

$106

Food Cost

$327

Utility Cost

$225

Entertainment

$28

Groceries

$46

Clothes

$40

Health Insurance

$80

Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation 

$2,149

Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation 

$1,942

Annual Cost of Living

$25,788