Preview student walking with Welcome Preview Families folder.

Preview

Hey, Redbird. We're pumped you're coming to Illinois State.

Preview is Illinois State's freshman orientation program. Experience two days of getting connected to campus.

Parking and Preview Map

Learn where you can park and get a sense of our campus layout. View the map

Preview at a Glimpse

Expect to have tons of fun. Here's what else you can expect.

  • New faces.

    You’ll meet a lot of people while you’re here. We’ll do some things in small groups and other things as a large group. You’ll also have a Preview Guide who will be with you the whole time.

  • A breakdown of all things Illinois State.

    From the classroom to weekend fun, Illinois State has a lot to offer. We’ll make sure you know how to access everything you need to be and do your best.

  • Explore campus.

    No need to worry about getting lost on your first day. We’ll show you where you need to be and all the hot spots on campus for studying and hanging out.

  • On-campus living.

    Experience your new home. You’ll do lots of walking around campus, spend the night in a residence hall, and eat food from some of our favorite spots.

  • Major exploration.

    We'll dive deep into your interests and help you find the perfect fit.

    If you changed your mind about your major since you applied, let us know so we can update your information. Email us

  • Academic planning.

    Meet with an academic advisor who will help you register for classes.

    A little advice: Memorize your ULID and password. You’ll need to know it when you register.

  • Get your student ID card.

    Be camera-ready and start feeling like an official college student. Your Redbird Card gives you access to all kinds of perks and activities on and off campus.

Your To Do List

Complete this list before you arrive so you can focus on all the fun of Preview.

  • Finish your admission requirements.

    Check your To Do List and Tasks in My Illinois State for an official list of essential information we need from you. These things typically include:

    • Housing Contract: Complete a housing contract or exemption.

    • Transcripts: Send us your final high school transcripts and test scores, and any college credit you earned.

    • Immunizations: Provide proof of immunity for tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella and meningitis.

  • Watch the module.

    We put together a little something with must-know details on what to expect at Preview and how to prepare. Go through the module

  • Take the ALEKS Math Placement.

    The result of your exam places you in a freshman math class that’s a good fit. Take ALEKS

  • Complete your advisement sheet.

    This will help you get the most out of your advising session at Preview. You can find the sheet in your My Illinois State account.

  • Tell us what you need.

    If you or anyone you’re coming with needs an accommodation for a disability, let us know. We appreciate advanced notice so we can meet your needs. Email us

  • Come up with questions.

    There’s nothing too outrageous. We’ll give you the inside scoop on whatever you want to know.

What to Bring

Here are our must have recommendations.

For Preview

  • Photo ID: You need this so you can get your Redbird card. This card gets you into just about everything when you’re a student. A driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport will do.

  • Comfortable Shoes: We do a lot of walking at Preview and sore feet tend to ruin the fun.

  • Water Bottle: It’s hard to hoot and holler when you’re parched. We have plenty of filling stations to quench your thirst.

For an Overnight Stay

One of the best parts of Preview is staying in the residence halls. We’ve got the towels, bed, pillows, and sheets covered. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Blanket: In case you get cold.

  • Toiletries: To stay fresh.

Pack light. Our storage space is limited. If you're driving to Preview, we recommend keeping your overnight things in your car.

We'll give you your room assignment when you arrive. You can also room with a friend if you want. Just make sure you check in together. No reservation necessary!

Parents and guests can also stay in the residence halls and are housed separately from students. Cost is $58.18 per person (charged to the student’s account) and includes lodging, breakfast, and dinner. If you’re not up for staying on campus, we have several hotels close by. Find hotels in Bloomington-Normal

Entrance to Bone Student Center.
Preview attendees on a tour of Milner Library.
Exterior of Milner Library.
Three young women at Preview's Expo.
Tri-Towers exterior.
Group of friends at Preview.

For Job Seekers

On-campus jobs are convenient and fun. Might as well secure one before the semester starts. Have these things handy if you want to apply:

  • Valid photo ID

  • ID to complete an I-9 form (social security card, passport, or certified birth certificate)

Meet the Preview Guides

These folks will be with you throughout Preview. They're helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, and fun.

Preview Guides strike a silly pose.

  • Preview is the starting point for making connections at Illinois State University. For any first-time student, this experience brings you closer to many different people. This includes not only new friends but departments across campus.

    Amy '24

    Organizational and Leadership Communication

    Preview guide, Amy.
  • Preview guide, William.

    Put your phone away! When you first get into your Preview groups, most people will be on their phones because they don't know anyone else in the group. Don't be afraid to start conversations with the people around you. This is the start to your college experience, so make the most of it!

    William '24

    Philosophy

  • Take risks! This is a time for you to find out who you are, decide who you want to be, and let go of anything that used to hold you back! Take a risk and make a new friend.

    Angela '24

    Psychology

    Preview guide, Angela.

Get in Touch

We can't wait to see you. Let us know what questions you have in the meantime.

Send us a message

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