Isu Student Population: How Many Attend Illinois State University?

Illinois State University is a public institution that was founded in 1857. It has a strong enrollment of more than 20,000 students, with total enrollment standing at 21,546 for the 2024-2025 academic year. The university's total student population includes 19,107 undergraduates and 2,439 graduate students, marking a significant increase in enrollment compared to previous years.

Total student population: 21,546

Illinois State University has a total student population of 21,546. This figure includes 19,107 undergraduate students and 2,439 graduate students. The university's student population has been steadily increasing over the years, with the 2024-2025 academic year seeing the largest incoming class in the university's history.

The university's total student population reflects a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In 2024, nearly 45% of first-year students came from traditionally underrepresented groups, and 34% of the total student population belonged to these groups. This is a significant increase from 2018, when the percentage of students from underrepresented backgrounds was 25%.

Illinois State University's large student population also contributes to a vibrant campus life. Students can join over 300 student organizations, write for the student newspaper, or participate in intramural or varsity sports teams. The university's location in Normal, Illinois, also provides students with access to a range of activities and amenities, including parks, a golf course, and a museum.

The university's strong enrollment numbers are a testament to its academic quality and commitment to student success. With a total student population of over 21,000, Illinois State University offers a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for its students to thrive and succeed in their chosen fields.

Undergraduate students: 19,107

Illinois State University (ISU) has a strong enrollment of more than 21,000 students, with 19,107 of those being undergraduates. This number has increased from 18,450 in 2023, and 16,899 in 2022.

The university has a commitment to fostering a small-college atmosphere with large-university opportunities. This is reflected in the fact that it has a total campus size of 1,180 acres, yet maintains small class sizes.

The undergraduate population at ISU is diverse, with students from 47 states and 77 countries. In 2024, nearly 45% of first-year students came from traditionally underrepresented groups, and 34% of the total student population did so as well. This is an increase from 2018, when 25% of the student population came from underrepresented groups.

Undergraduates at ISU can choose from dozens of degrees, and first-year students can sign up for the Learning in Communities seminar, which allows them to take one of their first college courses with a small group of peers.

ISU students can also join more than 300 student organisations, write for the student newspaper, or play intramural or varsity sports.

Graduate students: 2,439

Illinois State University is a public institution that was founded in 1857. It is located in the town of Normal, about 130 miles southwest of Chicago. The university offers a wide range of academic programs for both undergraduate and graduate students.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, Illinois State University enrolled 2,439 graduate students. This number has fluctuated over the years, with 2,539 graduate students enrolled for the 2023-2024 academic year. The university's total student population, including both undergraduate and graduate students, was 21,546 for the 2024-2025 academic year, making it the largest class in the university's history.

Graduate students at Illinois State University can pursue master's degrees in various fields, including business, education, and social sciences and humanities. The university also offers a diverse range of student organizations, extracurricular activities, and athletic teams, providing a well-rounded experience for graduate students.

The graduate programs at Illinois State University are highly regarded, and the university has been recognised for its academic excellence. The university's commitment to fostering a small-college atmosphere with large-university opportunities contributes to a positive and engaging learning environment for graduate students.

Illinois State University's graduate programs provide advanced knowledge, skills, and opportunities for students to pursue their academic and career goals. The university's strong enrollment numbers reflect its reputation as a first-choice institution, offering high-quality education and a diverse and vibrant campus community.

International students: 613

International students are an integral part of Illinois State University's diverse community. In Fall 2023, the university hosted 741 international students, but this number decreased to 613 in Fall 2024. This change in numbers may be due to various factors, such as shifting global trends, student preferences, or travel restrictions. Nevertheless, Illinois State University remains committed to fostering a multicultural environment that enriches the educational experience for all its students.

The international students at Illinois State University represent 77 different countries, adding to the cultural diversity on campus. The university recognises the unique perspectives and experiences that international students bring to the community. Their presence enhances the exchange of ideas, promotes cross-cultural understanding, and fosters a global mindset among the student body. This diversity is further reflected in the range of academic programmes offered by the university, including popular majors such as Elementary Education & Teaching, General Marketing & Marketing Management, and Registered Nursing.

To support its international students, Illinois State University offers various services and resources. These may include specialised orientation programmes, visa and immigration assistance, cultural adjustment support, and academic advising. The university also encourages international students to get involved in extracurricular activities, join student organisations, and participate in campus events to enrich their overall university experience. Additionally, the university provides dedicated housing options for international students, ensuring they have a comfortable and welcoming living environment during their time at the university.

The presence of international students at Illinois State University contributes to its vibrant and inclusive community. Their diverse backgrounds and perspectives enhance the educational experience for all students, preparing them to become global citizens. The university's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment is evident in its strong international student enrolment, which adds to the richness of its academic and social fabric.

First-time students: 4,285

Illinois State University welcomed 4,285 first-time students for the 2024-2025 academic year, marking the largest incoming class in the university's history. This number is a 3% increase from the previous year. The new class of students is also the most diverse in the school's history, with nearly 45% of first-year students coming from traditionally underrepresented groups. This is a notable increase from 2018, when 25% of the total student population came from underrepresented backgrounds.

The high number of first-time students is a testament to the university's strong academic programs, beautiful campus, and commitment to student success. The university's total student population for the 2024-2025 academic year is 21,546, which includes 19,107 undergraduates and 2,439 graduate students. The university's strong enrollment numbers reflect its appeal as a first-choice institution, offering large-university opportunities while maintaining a small-college atmosphere.

Illinois State University's first-time student population has been consistently strong in recent years. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the university welcomed 4,147 freshmen, which was the largest incoming class in 36 years. This number contributed to a total enrollment of 20,989 students, with 18,450 undergraduates and 2,539 graduate students. The university's popularity among first-time students is evident in its strong retention rate, with 80% of full-time undergraduates returning for the following academic year.

The university's ability to attract a large number of first-time students can be attributed to various factors, including its diverse community, strong academics, and commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. Illinois State University's ranking as the best value public university in Illinois by U.S. News & World Report further enhances its reputation and appeal to prospective students. The university's location in Normal, Illinois, also offers a strong economy, fun culture, and unique experiences that contribute to its attractiveness.

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