Applying to Illinois State

If you're applying to Illinois State University for the first time, it's easy to get started. Applications are now being accepted for spring, summer, and fall 2023. We continue to accept fall 2022 applications for certain applicant types.

Student Application Portal

The Student Application Portal is where you will create an application account, apply, and check your application status. Freshman applying for summer or fall may use the Illinois State application or the Common Application, and there is no preference given to one over the other.

Freshman, transfer, graduate, and visiting students can apply through Illinois State University's Application Portal.

Visit Student Application Portal

Freshman applying for summer or fall also have the option to apply to Illinois State University through the Common App.

Visit Common App

How to Apply

Applying early is encouraged, as the University must limit enrollment in specific majors and programs. For best consideration for scholarships and your academic program, complete your application by our priority deadline. View our application deadlines for more information.

Freshmen

Any student enrolled in their first year of college or university. If you earned college hours while in high school or if you will enroll at another college during the summer between high school and your attendance at Illinois State in the fall, you will still be classified as a freshman. However, if your high school transcript lists a December or January graduation date and you enroll in a college or university for the spring term immediately after graduation, you are considered a transfer student.

Transfer Students

Any student who was previously enrolled at another college/university after high school graduation (excluding immediate entry for summer term), regardless of whether credit hours were earned. This includes students with a December or January graduation date on their high school transcript who enrolled in spring term college courses.

Graduate Students

In order to be admitted to Illinois State, a student must have earned a four-year bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a college or university that is accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting association.

International Students

Any student who is not a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States is considered an international student. Typically international students need an F-1 or J-1 visa to study in the United States.

Returning to Illinois State

Any student returning to Illinois State University after discontinuing their enrollment for any reason (personal, academic, or disciplinary).