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Parents and Families

We're here to help

Sending your student to college is exciting. Let us guide you through the steps.

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Introduction

We want to take the uncertainty out of the process and be there for you every step of the way. We’re thrilled your student is considering Illinois State and hope you’ll find these resources helpful as you learn more about becoming a part of our extended Redbird family.

Quick Facts

  • Making College Affordable

    Our cost is in the lower half of public universities in Illinois—and we’ll lock in your tuition for four years.

  • Supporting Student Wellbeing

    From health services and counseling to one-on-one academic advising, we’ll support your student.

  • Kickstarting Success

    Redbirds graduate at a rate in the top 10% and go on to earn $15,000 more than the national average.

Simplifying Admissions

The college search can be confusing. We want to demystify the process. Join our mailing list and we’ll send you timely reminders about admissions and scholarships right to your inbox – we don’t want to keep you guessing.

Join our newsletter

Visit

There are many ways to visit our beautiful, historic campus in Normal, just a short drive from Chicago, St. Louis, and other big cities.

Schedule Your Visit

Investing in You

College is a big investment. We want to make it affordable for your family—that’s why incoming freshmen with a 3.0+ GPA receive a scholarship.

  • Admissions Scholarships
  • Other Scholarships
  • Tuition and Fees

Prioritizing Wellbeing

Redbird Safe Walk

Students can request to be escorted across campus 24/7 so they don’t have to walk home alone after a late-night study session.

Redbird Safe Walk

Student Counseling Services

Mental health is just as important for academic success. Students have access to free individual and group counseling.

Student Counseling Services

Emergency Alerts

Both you and your student can sign up to get notified during severe weather or other emergencies on campus.

Emergency Alert

Supporting Your Student

As a parent or other family member, you play a vital role in the success of your student at Illinois State.

Dean of Students office Grad Assistants and LJ the vice president of student affairs

Parent and Family Services

Part of the Dean of Students Office, provides you with support that keeps you informed and connected with Illinois State University.

Stay Connected

Dads cheering at a football game

Family Weekend

One of our best fall traditions, this is a great opportunity to meet your student's faculty and friends and spend time on campus. Special events include entertainment and Redbird football.

Plan Your Visit

Siblings playing ping pong in the Bowling and Billiards center

Sibling Weekend

Every spring our students can invite their brothers and sisters to campus for a weekend of all-ages fun, including the Gamma Phi Circus spring shows.

View Weekend Events

Plates of chocolate cake at the dining center

Dining Treats

Whether it is good luck wishes, a birthday, holiday or special event, or just because, students always appreciate a homemade cookie, brownie, cake or other sweet treat

Send a Treat

Student checking her grades on her smartphone

Student Privacy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records.

Understand FERPA

Redbird Gear

It’s time to dress the part. Order your Redbird gear from the Redbird Spirit Shop.

Redbird Spirit Shop

Admissions Support

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2023-08-25T06:39:32.048708524-07:00 2023
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