As an incoming freshman, you are an important part of our Illinois State University community. We want you to start your college career on the right track. Review the acceptance letter that has been emailed to you with your next steps.
The dates below are for fall enrollment unless otherwise noted.
Now that you’ve been admitted, many of the steps on this checklist will require you to access your admitted student account. To begin, follow the activation steps at IllinoisState.edu/Activate.
You’ll need your University ID (UID), which is included in your acceptance letter that was emailed to you.
Once you've activated your account, take your next steps at My.IllinoisState.edu, where your personalized To Do List will be updated with your relevant requirements.
Newly admitted freshmen must pay a $150 non-refundable deposit to reserve their space in the freshman class. Submit yours by the May 1 deadline.
In addition to paying online, we offer the alternative option for deposit submission by sending a check or money order payable to Illinois State University. Please include the student's UID number and indicate "Enrollment Deposit" with the payment.
Your first step is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is available beginning in December, and we encourage you to complete it as soon as possible for full consideration.
New students will be mailed information about University Housing and meal plans in mid-January. You can begin the online housing/dining application process in mid-February.
Get to know a few friends before you get here! In the Illinois State community on Facebook, you can find other students who share your major, residence hall, or variety of interests.
Look for an email invite from Illinois State once you've been admitted.
Preview is the two-day summer orientation and registration program required for freshmen students and their families. Students who submit an enrollment deposit will be invited to sign up for Preview beginning April 1.
Students meet with an academic advisor, register for classes, get to know current students and future classmates, and meet faculty and staff from various departments.
Testing Services coordinates the placement assessment that will help you place in the most appropriate math class. If necessary, students should take the placement exam at least two weeks before attending Preview.
All students must have proof of health immunizations on file with Student Health Services to avoid a late fee and being blocked from future class registration.
All full-time students must have health insurance coverage. The University offers a health coverage plan that is included in your tuition/fee costs that either supplements existing family coverage or serves as primary coverage for students with no other insurance.
You may need to complete one or more of the steps below to finalize your admission:
Technology is crucial to success in today’s college environment. Whether it’s late-night studying, group projects, or streaming TV shows—you need a computer that meets your needs.
View Illinois State's TechZone FAQs for advice on when and where to buy, student discounts, and much more.
In early August, you'll receive instructions in your University email on how to complete your campus technology orientation.
You don't have to wait until you're on campus to start thinking about which registered student organizations you'll join as a Redbird.
Parking permit information is mailed to students who live in the residence halls or university-owned apartments. Off-campus students can also purchase a commuter parking permit.
You don't necessarily need a car. Students ride free on Bloomington-Normal's Connect Transit system, including the Redbird Express that runs daily across campus.
Your Redbird life truly begins when you arrive on campus.