Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | Normal, Illinois |
| Online | illinoisstate.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Small City |
| Size | Large |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
Illinois State University, located in Normal, Illinois, offers a blend of academic tradition and modern campus life within proximity to the major metropolitan area of Chicago. Established in 1857 as the state's first public university, it boasts a rich history and a commitment to preparing educators, having started as Illinois State Normal University. The university's mid-sized suburban campus is characterized by a mix of classic and contemporary architecture, with facilities supporting diverse academic programs catered to the evolving needs of students. While Illinois State's application process is moderately selective, it offers a comprehensive educational experience across various popular majors, with a particularly strong emphasis on education and business disciplines. On-campus housing is provided, with multiple residence halls and apartment complexes designed to accommodate students. Illinois State is recognized for its Redbird athletic teams in conferences that draw a competitive student-athlete community, with notable programs in some sports.
In the most recent statistical year 19,596 prospective students applied, and 16,899 were granted admission. Of those admitted 3,983 enrolled in the school. 18,372 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 2,311 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $11,840 plus fees of $3,330. ISU is ranked 493 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
ISU is rated within the top 45% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 6 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Illinois State University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#493 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#149 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#23 in Best Colleges in Illinois
#6 in Best Public Colleges in Illinois
#452 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#27 in Best Value Colleges in Illinois
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1000/1210 |
| ACT | 21/27 |
| GPA | 3.41 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Apr 1, 2025 |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $55 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Illinois Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $830 |
| Other Fees | $3,330 |
| Room and Board | $10,602 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,856 |
| Total One Year Cost | $32,458 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $830 |
| Other Fees | $3,330 |
| Room and Board | $10,602 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,856 |
| Total One Year Cost | $44,299 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 20% |
| Education | 18% |
| Social Sciences | 6% |
| Health Professions | 6% |
| Communication | 5% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering ISU are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about Illinois State University.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=145813 IPEDS survey data for Illinois State University.
Current students may use the Illinois State University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.
Last updated February 24, 2024