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Eastern Illinois University

600 Lincoln Avenue, Charleston, IL 61920, USA

Eastern Illinois University award
Eastern Illinois University award
US ranking
position: 184
Tuition & fees per year: $14,653
Acceptance rate: 68.00%
Median alumni salary: $40,194
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1020 SAT, 20 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Moderate

What is the accreditation of Eastern Illinois University?

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.

What are the admission requirements at Eastern Illinois University?

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.

What are the application fees and waivers at Eastern Illinois University?

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.

What types of ROTC programs are available at Eastern Illinois University?

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.

What are the requirements for transfer students at Eastern Illinois University?

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.

What types of study abroad programs are available at Eastern Illinois University?

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.

Eastern Illinois University Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1020
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 20
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 68%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 6-11
ACT in range 12-17
ACT in range 18-23
ACT in range 24-29
ACT in range 30-36

Eastern Illinois University Admissions

Applicants Total: 11,648
Admission Total: 7,892
Enrolled Total: 819
Women
Men

Eastern Illinois University Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1020

Median composite ACT score

20

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

68%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

66%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

Yes

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Data not available

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Required

Recommendations

Data not available

Formal demonstration of competencies

Recommended

Admission test scores

Data not available

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

Yes

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

Yes

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Navy

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit on campus

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Yes

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

Yes

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

Yes

Eastern Illinois University Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Moderate

Generally accepts credits

Yes

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring, Summer