Asian student sitting on the quad.

International Students

Illinois State is a destination for students and scholars from around the world.

Quick Facts

  • 21,546 students

    19,107 undergraduate
    2,439 graduate

  • 77 countries

    Students from all over the world, including India, China, Brazil, and Germany.

  • Top College Town

    Bloomington-Normal ranks among the top 5 college towns in the U.S. based on its quality of life.

  • Close to Everything

    Our hometown, Normal, is in Central Illinois, less than 300 kilometers from big cities like Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.

How to Apply

Illinois State University is an American university with global reach, attracting students and faculty from all over the world. You can choose from 165+ undergraduate majors, 90+ master's degree sequences, and 10 doctoral programs, Pathway programs, and Academic English preparation.

Scholarships

Undergraduate International Admissions Scholarships

Undergraduate students with a minimum of 3.0 GPA (4.0 scale) are automatically considered for this award. The scholarship is valued up to $5,000 and is renewable for up to four years.

Graduate International Admissions Scholarships

Graduate students with a minimum of 3.5 GPA (4.0 scale) are automatically considered for this award. The scholarship is valued up to $5,000 and is renewable for up to two years.

Virtual Campus Tour

Experience Illinois State University from wherever you are. View what life is like as a Redbird. Read the Virtual Tour highlights.

students on campus

Training Opportunities

The Office of International Engagement offers several academic, management, and language training programs to meet the needs of groups seeking additional training or experience. These programs can be customized to fit specific academic criteria and learning objectives, or to coincide with larger educational initiatives.

Financial Assistance and Costs

International students are generally not eligible for the same kinds of financial aid as American students. However, there are some scholarships and other assistance available.

Housing and Dining

Students at Watterson

Living On-Campus

On-campus housing is a great way to get a feel for the American student experience. Many international students who live on campus choose to live in International House, or "I-House," a Themed Living-Learning Community inside Manchester Hall.

student at residence hall

Off-Campus Housing Database

Graduate students and junior and senior undergraduate students may choose to live off-campus.

students at dining hall

Meal Plans

Students living on campus must purchase a meal plan. Students living in off-campus housing may also choose to purchase a meal plan.

Internationalization

Illinois State's comprehensive internationalization effort includes expansion of internationally-oriented courses, campuswide programs, student organizations, student services, civic engagement opportunities, and other activities at Illinois State and affiliated locations.

Questions?

Get connected to Admissions counselors and our Office of International Engagement team.