Overview
Western Illinois University is a less selective public four-year institution in Macomb, Illinois. The school accepts 75.0% of applicants and enrolls 4,939 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 75.0%
- Total Enrollment
- 4,939
Admission Guide
Western Illinois University uses a rolling admissions process, so you can submit your application throughout the year without strict deadlines. Apply through the university's online application system along with your high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. The application fee is waived for Illinois residents.
The nursing program requires separate admission after completing prerequisite courses, typically during your sophomore year. Engineering programs, while not highly selective at the admission level, have specific math and science course requirements that you should complete in high school. The construction management program also has limited capacity and fills quickly.
Housing applications open in October for the following fall semester. Thompson Hall and Tanner Hall offer the newest residence hall options, while the Western Heights apartments provide more independence for upperclassmen. Submit your housing application early since some residence halls fill before others.
New student orientation occurs throughout the summer with multiple session dates available. You'll register for classes during orientation, so research your intended major's course sequence beforehand. The university operates on a semester system with classes starting in late August.
The Macomb campus sits in a small college town about three hours from Chicago and St. Louis. Campus parking is free, which makes having a car practical for trips home or to larger cities. The university provides a shuttle service to connect the main campus with off-campus housing areas.
Financial aid applications should be completed early since Illinois state funding programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The university automatically considers you for merit scholarships when you apply for admission.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $11,592/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $14,952
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $14,952
- Students Receiving Aid
- 28%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 44.8%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $54,163/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 58.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for Western Illinois University?
Western Illinois University has rolling admissions with no strict deadline, but students should apply by May 1 for fall semester to ensure housing and financial aid consideration.
Does Western Illinois University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Western Illinois University is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for most applicants. Students can choose to submit test scores if they believe the scores will strengthen their application.
How many credit hours do transfer students need to get into Western Illinois University?
Transfer students with fewer than 30 college credit hours must meet freshman admission requirements, while those with 30 or more credits are evaluated based on their college GPA.
Does Western Illinois University offer early admission or early decision?
Western Illinois University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions and evaluates applications as they are received.