Diverse Student Enrollment By the numbers
Illinois State University welcomed 4,147 freshmen to its student body for the 2023-2024 academic year, its largest incoming class in 36 years. Total enrollment stands at 20,989. This marks a 1.5% increase in total enrollment and a 4% increase in new freshmen. Illinois State’s student body is becoming more diverse as well. Approximately 41% of this year's freshman class come from traditionally underrepresented groups, while 32% of the total student population come from traditionally underrepresented groups.
freshman for the 2023-2024 academic year. The largest incoming class in 36 years.
Total enrollment stands at
This marks a 1.5% increase in total enrollment and a 4% increase in new freshmen.
Illinois State’s student body is becoming more diverse as well.
of the 2023 Freshman class come from traditionally underrepresented groups
of the total student population come from traditionally underrepresented groups.
Total enrollment from 2021-2023
First time in college (FTIC) students from 2021-2023
College is for you
Affirmative Action after SFFA v. Harvard and SFFA v. UNC
Excerpt from Interim President Tarhule's campus-wide message
Because Illinois State University does not use race as a factor in admissions, this Supreme Court ruling will not affect our admissions process. Illinois State employs a comprehensive and well-rounded admissions process that integrates high school or transfer GPA, grade trends, course completion, other factors that may include student co-curricular activities, and evidence of civic engagement and volunteerism. Standardized test scores and personal statements are optional.
Having said that, I want to make abundantly clear that we remain committed and intentional in our efforts to ensure students from all communities and identities across our state and beyond have access to Illinois State’s educational opportunities.
The University’s deliberate approach to student recruitment and enrollment has been highly successful as evidenced by significant increases in the racial and ethnic diversity of our student population from 15 percent to almost 30 percent over the past 10 years. In fact, our fall 2023 enrollment for first time in college (FTIC) students comprised approximately 37.5 percent students from underrepresented communities, mirroring the demographic composition of the state of Illinois. The University is also deeply committed to providing the ongoing support students need to succeed and graduate.
Institutions of higher education have a mission to attract, cultivate, and nurture the talents of a wide range of students from diverse backgrounds. Such diversity creates a rich environment of innovators and thought leaders who continue to make American institutions of higher education the envy of the world.
Illinois State believes societies thrive when they cultivate and support the full abilities and talents of all members. Consequently, equity, diversity, and inclusion are core values of Illinois State and guide our approach to fostering a welcoming and supportive community for all students, faculty, and staff. We remain unwaveringly committed to these values. We are stronger together!
—Dr. Aondover Tarhule, Interim President
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Annual Report for Illinois State University