Illinois State University
Illinois State University is a public university located in Normal, Illinois, offering a straightforward published CGPA entry requirement across most of its graduate programmes.
Institution size
Large
Min. CGPA floor
2.8
Tuition / yr
$17k–$21k
Type
Public university
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Normal, Illinois, United States |
| Type | Public university |
| Institution size | Large |
| Rankings | Not typically featured in QS/THE global rankings; recognised regionally across the US Midwest, particularly for teacher education. |
| Notable feature | Established teacher education and business programmes |
| Official website | illinoisstate.edu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.8
- Requirement applies broadly, with some competitive programmes setting a higher standard
- Full application reviewed alongside the CGPA floor
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Graduate tuition (international) | $17k–$21k per year |
| Living costs (Normal, IL) | Low; below the US university average |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Business Administration
- Education
- Nursing
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Applied Computer Science
- Biological Sciences
- Criminal Justice
- Music
This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Offered
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- Graduate assistantships available in select departments
- International merit scholarships reviewed at time of admission
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
Illinois State’s clearly published 2.8 floor and low overall cost of attendance make it a straightforward, predictable option for students prioritising budget certainty over big-city location.
Campus Life
Normal, Illinois offers low living costs in a smaller Midwestern university town, within reasonable distance of Chicago.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | Fall (August/September) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; Spring (January) intake is offered by many universities with more limited programme choice. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70-90 is typical for graduate admission, varying by programme. |
| Student visa type | F-1 Student Visa |
| Post-study work options | Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of post-study work authorisation, extendable to 36 months for STEM-designated degrees. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: illinoisstate.edu
Compare Illinois State University against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.