Collage of images depicting events and scenes at Illinois State University, including crowds, mascots, bands, parades, and sports events.

Illinois State University

Welcome Home

Connect with generations of Redbirds at Homecoming, one of our longest and most treasured traditions.

View Homecoming Activities

Start Homecoming 2026: Redbirds Reunite with our annual Kickoff and Tree Lighting in Uptown at 6 p.m.

Why We're Here

Everything we do is rooted in learning. It’s our oldest tradition and even our motto. That’s why 85 percent of classes in over 200+ degree options are taught by professors.

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Apply Now

Start creating your legacy at Illinois State.

Financial Aid and Costs

Search scholarships and use our Net Price Calculator.

International Students

Learn how to apply.

The Redbird Effect Starts with You

A graduate wearing an Illinois State University cap and gown.

The Redbird community values philanthropy and giving back to enrich the lives of future Redbirds. When you give, you start a ripple in motion. A student feels supported. Doors of opportunity are opened.

Start a ripple of possibility bigger than you know.

Create Your Impact >

News

A group of people pose under a blue tent
Fall 2026 midterm milestone reached – Homecoming 2026 and more, ahead
students use button press at Milner Library
Taking it back to 1976: Milner Library celebrates 50 years of community and scholarship
Lourdes Ramos at the MOLAA gala
5 questions with Dr. Lourdes Ramos, M.A. ’84: Leading the world of Latin American art 

More News

Visit Us

Two students standing in front of the Admssions sign.

On-Campus Experiences

The best way to experience Illinois State is to come see campus first hand.

Open House

Statue of a Reggie Redbird head.

Daily Campus Visit

Student sitting on a concrete bench on the quad.

Transfer Campus Visit

Student using a laptop computer sitting on a red blanket.

Grad School Visit Options

Lower courtyard with trees and upper building at the Bone Student Center.

Virtual Admissions Counselor Appointments

Virtual Campus Tour

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

Our Campus

A group of students playing instruments and singing on the quad.

Something for Everyone

You don't have to look far for a student organization perfect for you.

Find Your Niche

Students pose in front of the mural in Uptown Normal.

Welcome Home

Campus is only a small part of a vibrant community.

Explore Bloomington-Normal

Some trees on the quad during fall.

Tree Campus Higher Education

Our beautiful quad serves as the soul of campus.

Learn about the Quad

Reggie the Redbird stands on a chariot among cheerleaders during the Homecoming Parade.

A Rich History

For over 150 years, numerous traditions have shaped our past and continue to shape our future.

View our Traditions

Student Life

Student in a ceramics classroom talking to faculty.

Celebrating Everyone

Redbirds come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. With strong networks and resources multicultural and LGBTQ+ students can flourish academically and socially. Find your campus community.

Students sitting on couches with computers, talking.

Discover Opportunities

Lifelong friends and lasting memories await with one of our many student organizations. Start your Redbird Life.

Several students wearing a harness and working on a roof.

Be the Solution

Make community service part of your everyday life. Lead the way in community engagement and service learning.

Become a Redbird