| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Illinois College (IC) is a private liberal arts college located in Jacksonville, Illinois, USA. Founded in 1829, it is the first college in Illinois to grant a degree and has a rich history of academic excellence, social activism, and leadership development.
Location: Jacksonville, Illinois
Type: Private Liberal Arts College
Founded: 1829
Affiliation: Historically associated with the United Church of Christ and the Presbyterian Church (USA)
Academic Programs: Offers over 45 majors, minors, and pre-professional programs
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1, ensuring personalized education
Global Engagement: Study abroad programs and international learning opportunities
Athletics: NCAA Division III; teams known as the Illinois College Blueboys (men) & Lady Blues (women)
Financial Aid: Offers scholarships and grants to support students
Illinois College provides undergraduate degrees in various disciplines, including:
Business
Biology & Environmental Studies
Computer Science
Education
Psychology
Nursing
Political Science
Communication & Rhetoric
Abolitionist History: IC was a center for the anti-slavery movement in the 19th century.
Phi Beta Kappa Chapter: One of the few colleges in Illinois with a chapter of this prestigious academic honor society.
Hands-On Learning: Focus on experiential learning through internships, research, and community service.
Illinois College offers over 45 majors and minors in various fields:
Accounting
Agribusiness
Business Administration
Economics
Finance
Management
Marketing
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Engineering (Dual Degree Program)
Environmental Science
Mathematics
Physics
Communication & Rhetoric
Criminal Justice
English
History
International Studies
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Art
Graphic Design
Music
Theatre
Creative Writing
Health Sciences
Kinesiology & Exercise Science
Nursing (in partnership with other institutions)
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physical Therapy
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
Spanish
Japanese Studies
Illinois College offers pre-professional pathways for students interested in specialized careers:
Pre-Law (for students interested in law school)
Pre-Medicine, Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Veterinary (for students aiming for medical school)
Pre-Engineering (dual-degree programs in partnership with larger universities)
Pre-Nursing (for students preparing for nursing programs)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Agribusiness |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Art |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Communication & Rhetoric |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Education (Elementary & Secondary) |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Engineering (Dual Degree Program) |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
English |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Health Sciences |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
History |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
International Studies |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Kinesiology & Exercise Science |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Nursing (Pre-Nursing Program) |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Pre-Law |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Pre-Medicine |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Pre-Pharmacy |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Pre-Physical Therapy |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Public Health |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Spanish |
4 years |
$37,160 |
|
Theatre |
4 years |
$37,160 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) |
1–2 years |
$12,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)* |
2 years |
Approx. $14,000 – $16,000 |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA)* |
1–2 years |
Approx. $15,000 – $18,000 |
Illinois College is a small, private liberal arts college located in Jacksonville, Illinois. It offers a supportive and personalized environment, which can be especially beneficial for international students adjusting to a new culture and education system.
The college offers over 45 undergraduate majors and minors, along with a few graduate-level programs (like a Master of Arts in Education). Popular fields include Business, Biology, Psychology, Computer Science, and Education.
While Illinois College doesn't offer PhD or full-scale doctorate programs, it provides a strong foundation for students planning to pursue graduate studies later on in the U.S.
Illinois College is welcoming to international students and offers:
International Student Orientation
Academic advising
Cultural exchange opportunities
Help with visa processes and immigration support
ESL support (if needed)
Tuition for undergraduate international students is approximately $36,000 – $38,000 per year. However, Illinois College is known for being generous with scholarships:
Most international students receive merit-based scholarships, ranging from $15,000 to $23,000 per year, based on academic performance.
Some students may also be eligible for additional financial aid or grants.
Located in a quiet, safe town with a close-knit campus community.
Student-faculty ratio is low (about 11:1), meaning more individual attention.
Students can get involved in clubs, athletics, and leadership programs.
On-campus housing is available and often required for undergraduates.
Completed application (through Common App or IC website)
Official transcripts (with English translation if needed)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test)
Personal statement or essay
Letters of recommendation
Financial documentation for visa processing
Decide which undergraduate or graduate program you are interested in. Illinois College primarily offers undergraduate degrees, with a few graduate programs in education.
You can apply in either of these two ways:
Online through the Illinois College website
Common Application (commonly used by international students)
There is no application fee for Illinois College.
For Undergraduate Applicants:
Official high school transcripts (translated into English if needed)
Proof of English proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 100
Personal essay or statement of purpose
One or more letters of recommendation
SAT/ACT scores (Optional – test-optional policy in place)
Copy of passport
Financial documents (for I-20 and visa issuance)
For Graduate Applicants (like the MA in Education):
Official college/university transcripts
Bachelor’s degree equivalent
Letters of recommendation
Resume/CV
Statement of purpose
Proof of English proficiency (same as undergrad)
Financial documents
Admissions are rolling, so decisions are typically made a few weeks after receiving a complete application.
If accepted, you will receive an official acceptance letter and information about scholarships and financial aid.
To receive the Form I-20 (needed for a student visa), you must provide:
A financial affidavit or sponsor letter
Bank statement showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses
Use the I-20 from Illinois College to book a visa interview at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Pay the SEVIS fee and complete Form DS-160 for your F-1 visa.
Attend the International Student Orientation
Make travel and housing arrangements
Submit final transcripts and documents if required
Illinois College generally follows a semester system with two main intakes:
Fall Intake (Primary Intake)
Starts: Late August
Application Deadline: Rolling, but international students should apply by April–May to allow time for visa processing.
Spring Intake
Starts: Mid-to-late January
Application Deadline: Usually by October–November
Note: Fall is the most popular and widely recommended intake for international students, offering full course availability, orientation programs, and campus activities.
Academic Requirements:
Completed secondary/high school education equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma.
Strong academic performance (usually a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is expected).
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: 79 or higher
IELTS: 6.5 or higher
Duolingo English Test: 100 or higher
PTE Academic: 53 or higher
Optional:
SAT/ACT scores are optional (test-optional policy is in place).
Other Documents:
Personal essay
At least one letter of recommendation
Passport copy
Financial documents (for I-20 processing)
Academic Requirements:
A completed Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
GPA requirement: Typically 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, though some flexibility may apply.
English Language Proficiency:
Same as undergraduate requirements (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo/PTE accepted).
Additional Documents:
Statement of purpose
Resume/CV
Letters of recommendation
Transcripts from previous institutions
Financial documents (for visa purposes)
Ranking Platform |
Illinois College Ranking / Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked (Illinois College is not included in QS global rankings) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
#131–171 in Regional Colleges Midwest category |
|
Niche |
Grade: B overall; B+ for academics, A- for value |
|
College Factual |
Rated well for student-to-faculty ratio and value for money |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount (USD per year) |
Renewable |
|---|---|---|---|
|
International Student Merit Scholarship |
Based on academic excellence (GPA, transcripts) |
$15,000 – $23,000 |
Yes, up to 4 years |
|
Illinois College Trustee Scholarship |
Exceptional academic achievement & leadership |
Up to $23,000 |
Yes |
|
Founder's Award |
Strong academic profile, mid-range performance |
Around $18,000 – $20,000 |
Yes |
|
Cornerstone Award |
Average academic performance |
Around $15,000 – $17,000 |
Yes |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship |
Transfer students who are PTK members |
$2,000 |
Yes |
|
Talent Scholarships |
For art, music, theatre, etc. (portfolio/audition required) |
(up to $3,000) |
Yes |
Facility Type |
Details |
Estimated Cost (USD per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing |
Traditional residence halls & suite-style dorms (e.g., Gardner, Lincoln Hall) |
$4,500 – $6,000 |
|
Room Type Options |
Single, double, and suite-style rooms |
N/A |
|
Meal Plans |
Multiple dining plans available (unlimited or block meals) |
$4,400 – $5,200 |
|
Total Room & Board |
Includes housing + meal plan |
$9,000 – $11,000 |
|
Laundry Facilities |
Available in all residence halls |
Included in housing cost |
|
Wi-Fi & Utilities |
High-speed internet and basic utilities included |
Included |
|
Common Areas & Study Lounges |
Available in all housing units |
Included |
|
Security & Resident Advisors |
24/7 campus security and live-in student support staff |
Included |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Limited; most students live on-campus |
($6,000 – $9,000 est.) |
Students at IC benefit from small class sizes, one-on-one access to professors, and a strong focus on leadership, service, and hands-on learning. The college emphasizes real-world experiences through internships, research, and study abroad programs. The atmosphere is friendly and collaborative rather than competitive.
Though it’s a smaller college, IC is home to students from across the U.S. and around the world. The college promotes diversity and inclusion through cultural clubs, international student events, and awareness campaigns. International students are warmly welcomed and supported through orientation programs, academic advising, and social activities.
The campus is located in Jacksonville, Illinois — a quiet, safe town with a strong sense of community. Students live in on-campus housing, which includes residence halls and suite-style dorms with modern amenities, communal lounges, and study areas. Most students live on campus, which helps build strong friendships and an active student life.
Illinois College offers more than 80 student-run clubs and organizations, including:
Student Government
International Club
Honors societies
Academic and cultural organizations
Service and volunteering clubs
Arts, music, and theatre groups
There are also many campus-wide events, including open mic nights, cultural festivals, movie nights, and themed dinners.
IC is an NCAA Division III school with a range of varsity sports like soccer, basketball, track, volleyball, and football. There are also intramural sports and fitness facilities for students who want to stay active. The Bruner Fitness and Recreation Center is a popular spot for workouts, games, and socializing.
Illinois College offers strong career development support — resume workshops, internships, mock interviews, and networking events. The Center for Career Readiness and Experiential Learning helps students prepare for life after graduation. Many students also take part in leadership programs and community service projects.
Illinois College has a strong track record when it comes to student success after graduation. The college focuses heavily on career readiness, internships, and hands-on learning, helping students smoothly transition from college to career or graduate school.
Placement Rate:
Over 90% of IC graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate/professional school within 6 months of graduation.
Career Services:
The Center for Career Readiness and Experiential Learning offers:
Resume and cover letter workshops
One-on-one career counseling
Internship and job search assistance
Mock interviews and networking events
Graduate school application support
Internship Opportunities:
Illinois College students are encouraged to complete at least one internship before graduation. These are often connected with:
Local businesses and nonprofits
Research institutions
Government offices
Schools and healthcare providers
Business & Finance
Healthcare & Nursing
Education
Technology & Data Analysis
Nonprofit & Community Services
Government & Law
Science & Research
Some well-known organizations where IC alumni have worked include:
State Farm
Memorial Health System
IBM
Edward Jones
Illinois Department of Public Health
School districts across the Midwest
Nonprofit organizations and public service agencies
IC graduates have also gone on to attend prestigious graduate and professional schools such as:
University of Illinois
Washington University in St. Louis
Northwestern University
Southern Illinois University
Loyola University Chicago
While career services are available to all, international students also receive guidance related to:
CPT/OPT opportunities
Navigating work visas
Professional networking and job fairs
The acceptance rate of Illinois College, USA is approximately 80%.
Illinois College is considered moderately selective.
The admissions team takes a holistic approach, reviewing not just grades and test scores, but also your personal essay, extracurriculars, recommendations, and overall potential.
With its supportive environment, the college aims to admit students who are motivated, community-oriented, and ready to grow academically and personally.
Jacksonville, Illinois, USA
Address:
1101 West College Avenue
Jacksonville, IL 62650
United States
Jacksonville is a small, safe, and student-friendly city in west-central Illinois.
It’s about 35 miles west of Springfield (the state capital) and around 90 miles north of St. Louis, Missouri.
The town offers a peaceful environment with historic charm, local shops, parks, and community events—perfect for focused study and a tight-knit college experience.
Closest major airport: Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) in Springfield, IL
Campus is easily accessible by car, and IC offers student shuttle services to nearby cities during holidays and breaks.
