Facebook tracking pixelWestern Illinois University Admissions & Costs | KollegioSkip to main content
Western Illinois University logo

Western Illinois University

Macomb, Illinois

Acceptance rate75%
Institution typeUniversity
Application fee$30
In-state Tuition$14,952
Out-of-state Tuition$8,886
Avg. Cost after Aid$12,000

About Western Illinois University

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Founded in 1899, Western Illinois University is a university serving students in Macomb, Illinois. With a tradition of academic excellence, Western Illinois University prepares graduates for success in Criminal Justice, Business, Humanities, and more.

A Diverse Community in Macomb

Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.

Commitment to Access and Affordability

Western Illinois University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $6,968, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.

Research That Shapes the World

Western Illinois University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.

Outcomes for Western Illinois University students

Graduation rate (within 6 years)45%
Graduation rate (within 4 years)31%
First-year retention rate59%
Median earnings 8 years after enrolling$48,456
Median earnings 10 years after enrolling$54,163
Median debt at graduation$25,251

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Students at Western Illinois University

Total enrollment6,332
Undergraduate students4,525
Graduate students1,807
International students4%
First-generation students38%

What you can study at Western Illinois University

73 programs, most of them in these fields:

  • Business Management Marketing Support (9)

    Accounting, Business Administration and Management, General, Business/Managerial Economics, and more

  • Health Professions (7)

    Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist, Communication Sciences and Disorders, General, Dietetics/Dietitian, and more

  • Education (6)

    Bilingual and Multilingual Education, Elementary Education and Teaching, Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching, and more

  • Social Sciences (6)

    Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geographic Information Science and Cartography, and more

  • Visual and Performing Arts (6)

    Art/Art Studies, General, Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General, Fine/Studio Arts, General, and more

  • Physical Sciences (5)

    Chemistry, General, Chemistry, Other, Geology/Earth Science, General, and more

  • Communication Journalism (4)

    Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other, Journalism, Radio and Television, and more

  • Engineering (4)

    Civil Engineering, General, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Engineering, General, and more

Trusted by 200k+ students

Western Illinois University FAQ

We've got answers. Explore our FAQs.
Or reach out at support@kollegio.ai