
600 Lincoln Avenue, Charleston, IL 61920, USA


Eastern Illinois University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that it meets established standards of quality for institutions of higher education. This regional accreditation is a critical factor for students considering the value and recognition of their degree across other universities and employers.
Additionally, several of the university's academic programs possess specialized accreditations. These program-specific accreditations affirm that the curricula, faculty qualifications, and educational resources meet the rigorous standards of individual professional fields. This external validation is particularly relevant for students pursuing careers in these disciplines, as it can influence licensure, certification, and job prospects upon graduation.
Eastern Illinois University requires applicants to have a completed General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent high school completion. Prospective students must provide records from their secondary education as well as maintain a required GPA. Although specific secondary school rank data is not available, completion of a college preparatory program is mandatory.
English proficiency is emphasized, with the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) being a required exam for non-native speakers. Other standardized tests are recommended but not obligatory. The university does not have an open admission policy and does not offer dual credit options, although it accepts transfer credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits.
Applicants do not need to bring or own a computer, as computer leasing is available. While recommendations and certain competencies are suggested, these are not compulsory components of the application process.
Regarding standardized testing scores, the average incoming student at Eastern Illinois University has a mean SAT score of 1020, which is considered low and places them in the bottom 20 percent nationally. The mean ACT score is 20, also categorized as low and in the bottom 15 percent. A majority of enrolled students score below 1200 on the SAT, and below 23 on the ACT.
The university receives an average number of applications, with about 11,648 applicants annually. Of these, around 7,892 are admitted, reflecting an acceptance rate of approximately 68 percent. The enrolled class typically includes about 819 students, with a comparatively moderate admission competitiveness.
Eastern Illinois University charges a nonrefundable application fee for prospective students seeking admission. The standard application fee is set at $50. This fee applies to all undergraduate applicants and is intended to cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications.
The university offers fee waivers under specific circumstances to reduce financial barriers for some applicants. Fee waivers are available primarily for students who demonstrate financial need or who meet certain eligibility criteria outlined by the university. These waivers must be requested and approved prior to submitting the application to avoid the obligation of the application fee.
In addition to financial need considerations, fee waivers may also be granted to applicants participating in designated programs or initiatives promoted by Eastern Illinois University. Prospective students are encouraged to check the university's admission office resources for detailed instructions on how to apply for a fee waiver and what documentation may be required to support their request.
Eastern Illinois University hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students the opportunity to engage in Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs directly at the institution. This presence allows prospective students interested in military training and leadership development to participate in ROTC activities without needing to transfer or commute to another university for such programs.
Eastern Illinois University welcomes transfer students for multiple terms throughout the academic year, including fall, spring, and summer sessions. Transfer credits are accepted, facilitating a smoother transition for students coming from other institutions. The university recognizes credits earned through various examination programs such as CLEP (both subject and general tests) and DANTES, as well as the Excelsior College exams, allowing students to apply these toward their degree requirements.
The admission process for transfer students is considered moderately difficult, reflecting a balance between selectivity and accessibility. This suggests that while the university maintains academic standards, transfer applicants with satisfactory credentials have a reasonable chance of admission.
Eastern Illinois University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to accommodate different academic interests and durations. Students can participate in faculty-led programs, which are typically short-term and structured around a specific course or subject area. These programs allow students to earn credits while engaging directly with the culture and environment of the host country under university supervision.
Additionally, the university supports semester- or year-long study abroad exchanges through partnerships with international institutions. These longer programs provide immersive experiences where students can take a broader selection of courses and integrate more fully into the academic and social life of the host campus.
The study abroad options also include service-learning trips and internships abroad, giving students a chance to gain practical experience and contribute to local communities. These diverse formats enable students to choose programs that best fit their academic goals, schedules, and financial considerations.
Median composite SAT score
1020Median composite ACT score
20Percent of students submitting ACT scores
68%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
66%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer