
701 College Road, Lebanon, IL 62254-1299, USA


McKendree University holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a widely recognized accrediting body that ensures institutions meet rigorous standards of academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This accreditation affirms that the university provides comprehensive postsecondary education that adheres to established criteria for faculty qualifications, curriculum development, and student support services.
In addition to its regional accreditation, specific programs at McKendree University have received specialized accreditation or recognition from professional organizations relevant to those fields. These accreditations are significant for students seeking careers that require licensed or certified credentials, as they indicate alignment with industry standards and prepare graduates for professional practice.
Prospective students should consider that the university's accreditation status affects credit transferability, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the overall recognition of degrees by employers and other academic institutions. McKendree University's accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission demonstrates commitment to maintaining quality education and institutional accountability, factors that are crucial when selecting a university for higher education.
Prospective students seeking admission to McKendree University must have completed a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or an equivalent secondary education credential. Submission of a secondary school record and a minimum GPA is mandatory, while providing a high school rank is recommended but not required. The university suggests that applicants hold college preparatory coursework and values recommendations, competencies, and admission test scores as part of their application review, although these are not strictly compulsory.
International applicants are required to submit TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency. Other admission tests may be recommended to support the application further. McKendree University does not have an open admission policy, meaning that meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission.
For advanced placement, the university recognizes AP credits; however, it does not offer dual credit or college credit before enrollment. Students do not need to provide evidence of computer ownership or lease as part of the requirements.
The overall acceptance rate stands at about 64%, placing it in the bottom 40% percentile range, with an average volume of approximately 2,652 applicants competing for available spots. Among those admitted, around 436 students enroll each year, reflecting a selective but accessible admissions process.
McKendree University requires prospective students to submit a nonrefundable application fee as part of the admissions process. However, the exact amount of this fee is not specified in the publicly available data. The university does provide options for fee waivers, which are designed to reduce financial barriers for applicants who demonstrate need or meet certain eligibility criteria.
Applicants interested in obtaining a fee waiver should contact the admissions office directly to inquire about qualifications and the application procedure for waivers. In some cases, fee waivers may be granted based on participation in specific programs or enrollment in certain high schools that have arrangements with the university.
These measures highlight McKendree University's commitment to making the application process more accessible, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent qualified students from applying.
McKendree University does not host its own ROTC branch units. Instead, students interested in pursuing ROTC programs must do so through cooperating host institutions that offer such military training and leadership development opportunities. This arrangement means that while the university supports students seeking ROTC pathways, any direct ROTC activities and instruction occur off-campus at partner schools.
McKendree University welcomes transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple entry points throughout the year. Prospective transfers should note that the admission process is considered moderately difficult, indicating a balanced level of selectivity.
The university accepts a variety of prior credits including those earned through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP), both general and subject-specific exams, as well as credits from the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES). This flexibility allows transfer students to apply a broad range of previously earned academic credits towards their degree.
Additionally, McKendree University values recommendations as part of the transfer application, which can enhance a candidate's profile during review. The institution accepts transfer credits up to 10 years old, ensuring many students can utilize past coursework even if there has been a gap in their academic career.
McKendree University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich the academic and cultural experiences of its students. These programs include faculty-led trips during the summer or January terms, allowing students to earn credit while exploring global perspectives firsthand. The university also participates in exchange programs with partner institutions overseas, providing longer-term immersion for those seeking a more extensive international experience.
Students can choose from multiple destinations where McKendree has established connections, enabling study in diverse regions and environments. The programs emphasize not only academic coursework but also cultural engagement and professional growth, helping students develop a broader worldview and cross-cultural competencies essential in today's globalized society.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation 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