
1 Hairpin Dr, Edwardsville, IL 62026, USA


Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This regional accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards of quality and integrity regarding its academic programs and institutional operations.
Beyond institutional accreditation, several individual programs at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville have received specialized accreditations. These accreditations highlight the university's commitment to maintaining high standards in specific disciplines, which may be especially relevant for students pursuing professional careers in those fields.
For prospective students, choosing a university with such recognized accreditation assures that the education provided will be respected by employers and other academic institutions. It also facilitates the transfer of credits and eligibility for federal financial aid, both important considerations when selecting a college.
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville maintains a selective admission process that requires applicants to have completed a high school diploma or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Prospective students must submit their secondary school transcripts and demonstrate a minimum high school grade point average. While standardized admission test scores are not explicitly required, the university does mandate a qualifying TOEFL score for applicants whose native language is not English. Additionally, letters of recommendation and competency evidence are encouraged to support the application, though these are not strictly required.
The university does not implement an open admission policy, indicating that acceptance is contingent on meeting set academic standards rather than open enrollment. Dual credit courses are not recognized for admission purposes; however, the institution does award college credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits when applicable. Although owning a personal computer is not mandatory for admission, computer leasing options are available for students who need them.
Admission data reveal that Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville has a notably high acceptance rate of 97%, placing it within the top 15% nationally for accessibility. Approximately 8,937 candidates apply annually, with about 8,688 being admitted. Of those admitted, roughly 1,602 enroll, reflecting a moderate level of yield. The average incoming class comprises students with SAT scores averaging 1,040, which ranks in the lower 20th percentile nationally, and an average ACT score of 23, considered average and falling near the bottom 40th percentile. Women represent a larger share of both applications and enrollment compared to men.
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville requires prospective students to submit an application fee when applying. This fee supports the processing of application materials and helps maintain admission services. However, the university provides options for fee waivers to eligible applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria. These waivers are intended to reduce the financial burden for students and encourage access to higher education.
The institution evaluates waiver requests on a case-by-case basis, often considering factors such as participation in certain programs, economic hardship, or recommendations from high school counselors or college advisors. Applicants interested in obtaining a fee waiver must follow the university's official procedures, which typically involve submitting documentation to verify eligibility. This approach aligns with the university's commitment to making the application process more accessible to a diverse range of students.
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville does not have an ROTC branch unit on its campus. Additionally, there is no information indicating the availability of ROTC branch units at cooperating host institutions associated with the university. Prospective students seeking ROTC opportunities will need to consider other institutions or arrangements outside of Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville welcomes transfer students for all academic terms, including fall, winter, spring, and summer sessions. The university is open to accepting transfer credits, supporting a streamlined transition for students moving from other institutions. While specific policies regarding acceptance of CLEP subject and general exams are not disclosed, the university does accept DANTES credits, which may benefit those with military or equivalent coursework.
Entrance into Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville is considered minimally difficult, indicating that transfer applicants generally face a straightforward admission process. This accessibility may make it an appealing choice for students seeking an institution with reasonable transfer admission standards.
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global awareness and academic experience. These programs range from short-term trips during academic breaks to semester-long exchanges, providing flexibility for students from diverse academic backgrounds.
Students can participate in faculty-led programs that combine coursework with cultural excursions in multiple countries, allowing for immersive learning in a structured environment. Additionally, the university maintains partnerships with international institutions, enabling students to enroll directly in foreign universities while earning credits applicable to their degrees.
Options include language immersion programs, internships abroad, and research projects that foster cross-cultural collaboration. Scholarships and financial support are often available to assist students in managing the costs associated with these programs.
Overall, the offerings are designed to cater to varying academic goals and schedules, supporting Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville students in gaining valuable international experience as part of their higher education journey.
Median composite SAT score
1040Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
19%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
49%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
RecommendedRecommendations
RecommendedFormal 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-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy 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
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer