Illinois State University
About Illinois State University
Illinois State University, founded in 1857, is a public university known for its commitment to personalized attention and academic excellence. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a supportive learning environment that prepares students for success.
location_city City, State & Campus Insights
Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around Illinois State University
groups 1. City Size & State Population
Normal
48.2 sq km / 18.6 sq mi
53,000
12.8 Million
Density: 1,099 people per square kilometer
thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)
attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby
David Davis Mansion State Historic Site
Historic SiteA beautifully preserved Victorian mansion offering a glimpse into 19th-century life and politics in Illinois.
Constitution Trail
Park / TrailA popular paved trail system for walking, running, and biking, spanning over 40 miles throughout Normal and Bloomington.
Children's Discovery Museum
MuseumAn interactive museum designed for children, featuring hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play.
Miller Park Zoo
ZooA family-friendly zoo in nearby Bloomington, home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world.
restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines
Horseshoe Sandwich
An open-faced sandwich originating in Springfield, Illinois, typically featuring ham or another meat, French fries, and a cheese sauce.
Deep-Dish Pizza
A Chicago-style pizza with a tall crust, generous layers of cheese, toppings, and a rich tomato sauce, popular throughout Illinois.
Corn and Pork Dishes
Given Illinois' agricultural prominence, local restaurants often feature fresh corn in season and various pork dishes.
diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition
Normal, Illinois, and the wider Bloomington-Normal metropolitan area exhibit a demographic profile typical of many Midwestern university towns, with a significant white population and growing diversity, particularly with a notable African American and Asian population.
workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures
Jane Lynch
Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actress known for roles in 'Glee' and various Christopher Guest films. Attended Illinois State University.
John Malkovich
Acclaimed actor with numerous film and stage credits, known for his versatile performances. Attended Illinois State University.
Gary Cole
Prolific actor recognized for roles in 'Office Space', 'Talladega Nights', and 'Veep'. Graduated from Illinois State University.
directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around
Normal and the wider Bloomington-Normal area offer a mix of local public transit, pedestrian/cycling infrastructure, and regional connections via train and airport, facilitating mobility for residents and students.
Public Transit (Buses)
Connect Transit provides bus service throughout Normal and Bloomington, with routes serving Illinois State University. Fares are affordable, and ISU students often have discounted or free access.
Walking & Cycling
Normal is known for its extensive Constitution Trail system, offering many miles of paved paths for walking and cycling. The town generally has good pedestrian infrastructure, especially around the university campus.
Regional Rail & Airport
Amtrak provides passenger rail service from the Uptown Station in Normal, connecting to Chicago and other major cities. Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) in Bloomington offers regional flights to major hubs.
school 8. Education & Literacy Level
99%
39.6% (Bloomington-Normal MSA)
The Bloomington-Normal metropolitan area, home to Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University, boasts a highly educated populace. The presence of two universities contributes significantly to a strong academic ecosystem and a high percentage of residents with bachelor's degrees or higher, fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries
The economy of Normal and the Bloomington-Normal metropolitan area is diverse, with strong sectors in education, insurance, healthcare, and manufacturing. The presence of major corporations and universities provides stability and employment opportunities.
Key Driving Industries
Major Corporate Employers
Popular Programs
View All CoursesAdmissions Info
Application Period
Main intake starts in September. Applications are typically accepted from October to January for the following academic year.
Fees & Living Costs
Tuition Fees / Year
$12,000.00 - $25,000.00
Living Expenses / Year
$12,000.00 - $20,000.00
* Costs are estimated. Actual fees may vary by course and lifestyle.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Need-Blind Admission
Financial need is not considered during the admission process for both domestic and international students.
Campus Life
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