University Metrics of Excellence
First-Choice Institution
Illinois State has welcomed our . We enroll more than 21,500 students, while maintaining academic quality and small class sizes.
Bang for the Buck
Illinois State is ranked among the top universities for return on investment. U.S. News & World Report recognized the University as one of the in the nation, and Washington Monthly included the University on the list in the Midwest. In addition, the University was also for graduates’ return on investment.
High Retention and Graduation Rates
Illinois State students complete their degrees on time. ISU’s retention rate remains among the highest in the nation at over 81.3 percent, and our high graduation rate (66.3 percent) is well above the national average.
Top Public University
ranked the University in the top 106 out of all public national universities for the institution's contribution to the public good through social mobility, research, and public services. Illinois State made U.S. News & World Report's 2024 rankings of , at No. 112. In addition, the University was ranked in the upper echelon of 2024 list of Best Colleges in America for quality education and affordability.
Diverse Campus
Illinois State provides accessible opportunity and increasingly reflects the nation's changing demographics. We enrolled our most diverse freshman class in school history this year and nearly 32 percent of the total student population coming from traditionally underrepresented groups.
Record Fundraising
Illinois State University reaching its third highest private support total in university history. Through these donations, more than 4,474 scholarships were awarded last fiscal year and 85 new scholarships were created.
Top College Town
The University’s hometown ranks as one of the top 3 based on its affordability and safety, while its entertainment scene, community, and quality of life are listed as reasons it also ranks as one of the .
Military Friendly School
Illinois State supports veterans and those in the military. We are ranked a by VIQTORY.
Civically Engaged Campus
Illinois State’s campuswide commitment to our core value of civic engagement has earned us recognition with the , as an recipient, and as a .