Overview
Eastern Illinois University is a less selective public four-year institution in Charleston, Illinois. The school accepts 68.0% of applicants and enrolls 4,398 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 68.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,010
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 900–1,120
- Total Enrollment
- 4,398
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Eastern Illinois University operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in your senior year for the best housing options and scholarship consideration. The admissions committee reviews applications as they arrive rather than waiting for a specific deadline.
Your application stands out when you highlight leadership experience and community involvement specific to small-town or rural environments. EIU connects strongly with students who appreciate close relationships with professors and want to make an impact on a manageable campus scale. Write about times you took initiative in your high school, church, or local community rather than generic volunteer hours.
The Honors College requires a separate application with additional essays, but acceptance comes with priority registration, smaller class sizes, and dedicated residence hall floors. Submit this application by February if you want consideration for their merit scholarships.
EIU's nursing program maintains strong clinical partnerships with regional hospitals, making it particularly attractive for students planning to work in Illinois healthcare systems. The business programs, especially accounting and finance, benefit from the university's connections with regional employers and internship opportunities in nearby cities like Champaign and Springfield.
Campus culture centers around tight-knit communities within residence halls and student organizations. Greek life plays a significant role in social activities, and athletic events draw decent crowds despite competing at the Ohio Valley Conference level. You fit well here if you prefer knowing your professors personally over anonymous lecture halls and want to hold leadership positions without fierce competition.
Charleston sits in rural east-central Illinois with limited entertainment options beyond campus activities. Students who struggle here often expect big-city amenities or diverse cultural programming. Those who succeed embrace the slower pace and build strong relationships with classmates and faculty.
Submit your FAFSA early since EIU offers need-based aid on a first-come basis. The university also provides emergency financial assistance programs that help students facing unexpected expenses stay enrolled.
Don't overlook EIU's teacher education programs, which maintain strong placement records in Illinois school districts. The university's education faculty work closely with local schools, providing extensive classroom experience before student teaching.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $14,093/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $13,403
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $15,879
- Students Receiving Aid
- 31%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 45.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $51,989/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 70.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Eastern Illinois University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Eastern Illinois University has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Eastern Illinois University?
Eastern Illinois University has rolling admissions with no specific deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying earlier increases your chances of acceptance and housing availability.
How many credit hours can transfer students bring to Eastern Illinois University?
Transfer students can bring up to 64 credit hours from community colleges or up to 90 credit hours from four-year institutions. Students must complete at least 42 credit hours at Eastern Illinois University to earn their degree.
Does Eastern Illinois University offer early admission programs?
Eastern Illinois University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university operates on a rolling admissions basis throughout the academic year.