Illinois State University: Upgrade your future

Your International Student Center

When you attend Illinois State, you can expect a high-quality university experience at an affordable price. With a wide range of academic programs and competitive career opportunities in the state of Illinois, you will thrive at the university and beyond. Pursue international education at Illinois State University.

ISU Top 1% Most affordable University for International Students

ISU 96% of our international students continue to OPT or higher degrees within three months of graduation

INTO Stirling student writing on a piece of paper

Discover a variety courses ranging from programs to help international students prepare for university to engaging subject specific degrees

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Living in Bloomington-Normal

As one of the best small college towns in the US, you can expect a great quality of life in Bloomington-Normal. With bike-friendly roads and picturesque countryside, you will have a lot to explore. Our campus is steps away from locally owned shops, restaurants and hotels in the thriving central business district.

You don’t have to look far beyond Bloomington-Normal to find career opportunities and things to do. Your days at Illinois State University will be filled with research opportunities, joining one of the 400+ student organizations and networking at events attended by Fortune 500 companies.

Ready for more? Venture by train to some of the major neighboring cities for a weekend like Chicago or St. Louis and the Central Illinois Regional Airport is located 10 minutes from campus. In just two hours, you can experience the sights, sounds and tastes of Chicago, IL. In 2.5 hours from campus, you can wind up in St. Louis, MO, where the Gateway Arch rises like a beacon and welcomes you to the city. At Illinois State, you are local to industry and central to opportunity.

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Your INTO Center

Illinois State remains a first-choice university, ranked among the Top Public Schools. The university is dedicated to delivering an individualized educational experience with small class sizes and personalized attention.

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Study and relax in an Illinois State University residence hall

Your accommodation

Our residence halls are more than just a place to eat and sleep. On-campus housing is an opportunity to meet new friends and study partners. It provides you with the perfect balance of academics, recreation and community. When you live on campus, you have all the resources you need just steps away. Residence Life staff are available 24 hours a day for any questions or concerns you may have.

Explore your accommodation