Two women leaning over a balcony, talking to someone below during a performance at the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.

Illinois State University

A Thriving Community

Be part of a campus surrounded by eclectic shopping, diverse restaurants, and endless entertainment.

Learn about ISU’s Shakespeare Festival, a must-see attraction in the state of Illinois.

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.

View by program type or interest area

Accepting applications for spring 2020.

See our Metrics of Excellence and other Points of Pride.

Search scholarships and use our Net Price Calculator.

Learn how to apply and take a virtual campus tour.

Redbirds Rising: The Campaign for Illinois State

With your help, current and future generations of Redbirds will soar to advance themselves and the University in ways unprecedented.

Make a Gift

News

Members of the Chicago Suburban Alumni Network volunteered at the Northern Illinois Food Bank as part of #RedbirdImpact Month.

Alumni make #RedbirdImpact during month dedicated to community service

Zac Chase on the shores of Western Cape in South Africa where he led trainings for teachers on educational technologies.

Chasing the fun

Illinois State University student playing video games.

Opportunities for video game recreation, research available at new high-tech lab

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Events

Jun26Transfer Student Career Conference

Jul19Harvey S. Woods Golf Classic

Jul20Family Artmaking Workshop

More Events

Top 100 Public University

Illinois State made U.S. News & World Report's 2019 rankings of America's best public national universities, at No. 91, based on academic quality and excellence.

See all Metrics of Excellence

Our Campus

Three students playing the drums on campus.

Something for Everyone

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

Find Your Niche

Campus during fall with students walking about.

See For Yourself

You’ll find big things on our compact, walkable campus, including our beautiful Quad

Schedule a Visit

Welcome Home

Campus is only a small part of a vibrant community.

Explore Bloomington-Normal

Tree Campus USA

Our beautiful quad serves as the soul of campus.

Learn about the Quad

Three students rest in hammocks reading.

A Rich History

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

View our Traditions

Student Life

Students talking signing up with organizations at Festival ISU.

You're More Than Your Major

You can shape your own experience on campus. Find over 400 student organizations such as greek life, governing, sport clubs, and entertainment. Who Will You Become at Illinois State?

An overlooking view of the Great Wall of China.

Explore the World

Study abroad with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. View your possible destinations.

Student using a drill to help build a home.

Make a Difference

Enact social change with Alternative Breaks. Find your next opportunity.