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Illinois State University

A Rich History

Decades of Redbirds influenced our past. Your ideas and inspiration can shape our future.

Discover Illinois State Traditions

Read about a professor's hidden mural that was recently discovered during the Bone Student Center renovations.

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

Apply Now

Accepting applications for spring 2020.

Our Rankings

See our Metrics of Excellence and other Points of Pride.

Financial Aid and Costs

Search scholarships and use our Net Price Calculator.

International Students

Learn how to apply and take a virtual campus tour.

Redbirds Rising Campaign logo.

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.

News

campus in summer
Illinois State University has best fundraising year in university history
Cadet Matthew Higgerson, a sophomore, works on a finger-painting project with first graders at Fox Creek Elementary.
ROTC: Answering the call of tutoring
Trees on the Illinois State University Quad.
First Fell Arboretum map now available

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Events

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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.

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

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See For Yourself

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

Schedule a Visit

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Welcome Home

Campus is only a small part of a vibrant community.

Explore Bloomington-Normal

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Tree Campus USA

Our beautiful quad serves as the soul of campus.

Learn about the Quad

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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 walking on the street in bright colors, cheering during the Chicago Pride Parade.

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.

LJ talking to a group of latinx Greek Life students on the quad.

Discover Opportunities

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

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Be the Solution

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

Become a Redbird