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Western Illinois University: Popular Programs & Ranking
1050 acre campus- Estd. 1899
Last updated on 4 Nov '25WIUWhat's new?
The UG and PG Spring intake application deadline at WIU for international students are now closed.
About Western Illinois University
The Western Illinois University, is a public university that welcomed its first cohort of students in 1899. The main campus of the university is located in Macomb, USA. As part of its course catalogue, the university has 8 courses across 5 streams, the most popular being Engineering, Business & Management Studies, Science, Medicine & Health Sciences and Mass Communication & Media. These courses are divided as 1 course at UG level and 7 courses at graduate level. List of popular courses are MBA/PGDM, B.Sc., MS, Others PG and MPH. The UG courses have an average duration of 4 years, while that of graduate courses is around 18 months to 24 months. The Western Illinois University tuition fee for the first-year tuition fee for UG courses is USD 14,952 - 14,952. For PG courses, this costs USD 9,641 - 15,544. For students relocating to Macomb, the annual cost of living is around USD 6,220 - 11,320. Western Illinois University prioritizes applicants with a solid academic track record and thus prospective students are required to satisfy the entry requirements, to have the best possible chance of admission at the institute. The following exam scores are deemed acceptable for admissions by the institute: Duolingo, IELTS, TOEFL, GRE and PTE.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
The Western Illinois University ranks among the best higher educational institutions in the region.
A major university ranking platform ranks it #440 as part of its the latest UG Business Rankings 2025, while the same source ranks it #57 as part of its the latest rankings of the “Regional Universities in Midwest” category.
It attains a rank of #16 for the “Top Public Schools” category & #55 for “Best Value Schools”.
The WIU has an acceptance rate of around 57%, suggesting the institute is somewhat selective at granting admissions to students.
Prospective students must maintain a solid academic track record & preferably should be active in other non-academic activities over school/college studies to have a chance of securing a seat the institute.
Illinois is among the most prominent states in the USA for a number of reasons. The state is home to Chicago, which also happens to be the third most populous city in the country.
The state houses some of the best educational institutions in the region including: North-Western University, The University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, & Western Illinois University among others.
The state is also known for offering an interesting blend of historical architectures & natural beauty with some popular locations including:
· The Art Museum of Chicago
· Millennium Park
· The Magnificent Mile
· Willis Tower
· Cloud Gate
· Lincoln Park Zoo
WIU is known for offering a plethora of undergraduate & postgraduate degree programs across a range of fields.
Another unique aspect of the institute's is it Cost Guarantee programs, where tuition fees freezes over four years of continuous enrolment.
Students can also choose from over 150 student clubs & organizations to be a part of, learn & have fun over the duration of their studies.
Western Illinois University Ranking 2025
Western Illinois University is frequently recognized for its academics and global reputation.
Western Illinois University is well-ranked at the national level. The course ranking for #380 according to Shiksha Popularity Ranking stands at BBA in 2025. Shiksha Popularity Ranking is a ranking system that simplifies your journey of choosing the best university for studying abroad. It aggregates ranks of some of the top ranking bodies with a clear number nationally both at university and course level.
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
WIU can be considered a good institution for studying abroad.
The institute offers an inclusive campus environment with a major emphasis on experiential learning. Eligible students can also apply for merit & need-based financial aids, with cash prizes going north of INR 5 L.
There's also a greater emphasis on student engagement with weekly academic events such as workshops, conferences & meet-ups with industry professional providing a great opportunity for students to grow their network.
As per Global UG Business Course rankings given by a prominent ranking platform, the institute attains a rank of #440, highlighting the standard of education being offered to students.
Further, the institute ranks #57 for Regional Universities Midwest category, #16 for Top Public Schools & #55 for Best Value Schools in the region.
Western Illinois University courses
Western Illinois University offers over 8 courses at levels to Indian students through 4 departments. While it has 1 course at UG level and 7 courses at the graduate level that Indian students can choose from. These Western Illinois University courses are offered in over 5 streams fields of study. Students can specialise in areas such as Chemistry, Public Health, Computer Science Engineering and Statistics. The duration of undergraduate course at the university is 4 years and the duration of graduate courses is 18 months to 24 months.
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Western Illinois University Admission 2026
To get admission to Western Illinois University, Indian students should apply through Official Application Portal. Western Illinois University admission requirements, which comprise previous scores, required GPA, standardised test scores, essays, resumes, SOPs and LORs must be submitted to complete the application process by all Indian applicants. Also, Indian students also have to submit scores of entrance or English language proficiency exams, such as Duolingo, IELTS, TOEFL, GRE and PTE, must also be submitted by students.
- Application fees :USD 50
- Type of deadline :Regular
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Yes, the institute prefers its students to maintain a decent level of written & verbal English language proficiency & IELTS score is considered an acceptable proof of the same.
Apart from IELTS score, the institute also accepts other test scores such as: Duolingo, TOEFL & PTE Academic.
Mentioned below are the minimum scores students must achieve:
Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
73 | |
8.0 | |
6.0 | |
ITEP | 3.7 |
49 | |
105 |
Yes, GRE scores are considered for admissions to some courses at WIU.
The university does not specify a university-wide minimum GRE score, therefore, candidates are advised to perform as well as they can, in these exams.
Priority is given to students with a higher score as well as those who maintain a solid academic record & a professional resume highlighting their non-academic achievements.
WIUWestern Illinois University Scholarships
The Western Illinois University offers a number of scholarships to its international students on a merit basis.
The merit-based scholarships are awarded as per an individual’s academic performances, with GPA scores being given a lot of importance.
Mentioned below are some prominent scholarships offered to students at WIU:
|
Scholarship |
Financial Reward |
|---|---|
|
International Undergraduate Scholarship |
INR 1.72 L-INR 5.16 L |
|
International Graduate Scholarship |
INR 3.4 L |
|
International Presidential Scholarship |
Tuition & Fee waiver |
|
Undergraduate Regional Diversity Scholarship |
INR 2.58 L |
|
Rodney & Bertha Fink International Women’s Scholarship |
INR 1 L |
The eligibility requirements vary for each scholarship, mentioned below are the requirements for International UG Scholarship:
- Must maintain a 3.0. GPA on a 4.0. scale
- Must have earned less than 24 credits
- Must have a continuous full-time (12 hours) enrolment
- Must not be a part of a government or HGO sponsorship program except with bilateral agreement
- Scholarship only applies to WIU tuition costs
- 50% of the fee is awarded in the fall semester while the other 50% is awarded over the spring semester
The eligibility requirements for International Graduate Scholarship is mentioned below:
- Must possess an F-1 visa
- Must be a newly admitted, non-sponsored student enrolling to WIU for the first time
- Must maintain a CGPA of 3.0, on a 4.0. scale
- Continuous enrolment required
- Must not be receiving a graduate assistantship
- Must not be a pursuing a second bachelor’s degree
- The scholarship only applies to WIU tuition
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
The WIU Presidential Scholarship is considered the university's most prestigious financial aid to students.
The scholarship is applicable for tuition fee waivers & is awarded to six undergraduate students.
Prospective candidates must demonstrate academic merit (minimum 3.5 GPA or higher), community engagement & leadership abilities to have the best possible chance of being granted the aid by the WIU selection committee.
The stipend earned by full-time graduate assistants, who work 20 hours a week & receive a stipend & waiver of tuition is USD 1,224 per month (INR 1.05 L) & around USD 9,792 (INR 8.4 L), over the course of an academic year.
Mentioned below are some other prominent scholarships offered to students at WIU:
Scholarship | Financial Reward |
|---|---|
International Undergraduate Scholarship | INR 1.72 L-INR 5.16 L |
International Graduate Scholarship | INR 3.4 L |
International Presidential Scholarship | Tuition & Fee waiver |
Undergraduate Regional Diversity Scholarship | INR 2.58 L |
Rodney & Bertha Fink International Women's Scholarship | INR 1 L |
18 months
Western Illinois University Placements
The Western Illinois University maintains a solid track record of providing post-study employment opportunities to students.
As per the latest employment data curated from an unofficial source, the 2,276 alumni members to have graduated of the Class of 2025, have secured employment across a number of sectors.
Mentioned below is a breakdown of the major sectors, WIU graduates are currently employed at:
|
Sector |
Total Students |
|---|---|
|
Education |
231 |
|
Operations |
220 |
|
Administrative |
164 |
|
Customer Success & Support |
88 |
|
Community & Social Services |
76 |
Though the institute offers over 100 courses, some courses are pursued more than others by the university’s student population.
Mentioned below is a breakdown of the prominent courses pursued by the alumni Class of 2025:
|
Course |
Total Students |
|---|---|
|
Business Administration |
119 |
|
Computer Science |
90 |
|
Computational Science |
82 |
|
Psychology |
69 |
|
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement |
69 |
The institute’s graduates are handpicked by some of the best for-profit & non-profit organizations in the US & abroad.
Listed below are some popular recruiters of WIU graduates:
- Walmart
- US Army
- John Deere
- Hy-Vee
- Western Illinois University
Commonly asked questions On Placements
The Western Illinois University is a popular destination among recruiters for hiring graduates.
The university's graduates are employed across a range of industries & are paid handsomely for respective contributions.
Some prominent organizations, recruiting WIU graduates include: Walmart, John Deere, Illinois Army National Guard, UnityPoint Health & MACOMB Country Club among others.
Western Illinois University Fees
Fees is one of the critical components that Indian students primarily consider when seeking admission to Western Illinois University. The total fees at the university comprise tuition and living costs. The tuition fee for UG courses for the first year is USD 14,952 - 14,952, for graduate courses it is USD 9,641 - 15,544. Indian students must also consider the cost of living in Jacksonville. These include hostel fees, food, utilities, cost of public transport and other expenses. The annual hostel charges at Western Illinois University is USD 6,220 - 11,320.
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(4 courses) | INR 9 L - 14 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 73 & Above, PTE: 49 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above, GRE |
MBA/PGDM(1 course) | INR 14 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: GMAT: 500 & Above, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 79 & Above, PTE: 53 & Above, Duolingo: 110 & Above |
MPH(1 course) | INR 14 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 73 & Above, PTE: 49 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
Others PG(1 course) | INR 14 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 92 & Above, PTE: 62 & Above, Duolingo |
B.Sc.(1 course) | INR 13 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 73 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
The WIU charges a standard application fee of around USD 50 (INR 4,300) to its international students.
The fee can be paid online as part of the admission application. The fee is non-refundable & must be submitted for the application to be considered.
The university does not offer any application fee waivers.
WIUStudent profile
Others
64%
Black
22%
Hispanic
12%
Asian
1%
In state
90%
Out of state
9%
24 and under
84%
25 and over
15%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
UG Enrollment
PG Enrollment
Western Illinois University Notable Alumni
Western Illinois Uni alumni are working across all world. Some of these are well known personalities working in different fields like Politics Cinema Journalism Sports and Healthcare etc. Some of these popular WIU names are:
|
Alumni Name |
Alumni Profession |
|---|---|
|
Frank Winters |
Former American Football Player |
|
Mary Matalin |
Political Consultant |
|
Micheal Boatman |
Actor & Writer |
|
Tim Walberg |
Politician |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
The institute has given several notable individuals to a number of industries in the US & abroad, over its near 125-year old history.
From professional athletes to media personalities & healthcare workers, some prominent members of the WIU alumni network include: Paul Vallas, Dot Richardson, John Rosemond, Kosuke Kimura & Tom Soehn, among others.
Western Illinois University vs Northern Illinois vs Saint Joseph’s University: Which is better?
Western Illinois University, Northern Illinois University and Saint Joseph's University are some best universities in US.
These universities attract many Indian students for good education, placements and industry exposure. But to choose one b/w them, it is important to know some key things such as location, tuition costs, popular programs, etc., which help make selection process easy.
Mentioned below is comparison b/w WIU, NIU and SJU-
|
Criteria |
Western Illinois University |
Northern Illinois University |
Saint Joseph’s University |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Location |
1 University Cir, Macomb, IL 61455, United States |
Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center, 231 N Annie Glidden Rd, DeKalb, IL 60115, United States |
5600 City Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131, United States |
|
Acceptance Rate |
57% |
71% |
83% |
|
Popular Programs |
Business Administration, Computer Science, Accountancy |
Computer Science, Arts, Communication |
Finance, Business Administration, Healthcare |
|
Tuition Fee (MS) |
INR 8.1 L-INR 13.06 L |
INR 8.81 L-INR 25.26 L |
INR 11.34 L-INR 17.2 L |
|
Shiksha Popularity Rankings (BBA) |
#380 |
#205 |
#158 |
Compare WIU with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 8.7 L - 14.03 L | -/- | |
| INR 14.34 L - 17.21 L | -/- | |
| INR 9.56 L - 19.67 L | #342 US News, 2025 | |
| INR 7.72 L - 20.88 L | #301 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 12.37 L - 21.06 L | -/- | |
| INR 9.57 L - 10.77 L | -/- |
CompareWIUStudying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Commonly asked questions On Study in Country
The process for applying for an USA visa may start after you get a Form I-20 from your college.
Once the SEVIS cost has been paid and a receipt has been obtained, you can complete a DS-160 visa application. It uses an online application form. Visa applications cost USD 185, which is equivalent to INR 15,343.9. After submitting the visa application cost, you must schedule an interview with the American Embassy or Consulate in your nation. Because the wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa type, you should apply for your visa as soon as possible.
Western Illinois University Campus Life
The main campus of Western Illinois University is located in Macomb, USA. The university offers a great campus life to its students. Students here have varied options to participate in community building. The university has organisations and clubs, in which students can participate as per their interests. On top of this, students can participate in sports and join university teams. They can also access variety of resources and services at the campus such as library, recreation centres, sports complex, placement services, among others.
Commonly asked questions On Others
WIU students are required to live as part of on-campus accommodation facilities for a duration of four semesters or at-least until they attain 60 credit hours.
Those who do not satisfy these conditions would then need to file a petition for living off-campus.
For more information regarding relocation to off-campus facilities, students are advised to refer the university's Housing office.
Mentioned below are the costs of living as part of University maintained residence halls along with the costs of meals at Western Illinois University for students who enrolled in Spring 2025 or Summer 2025:
| Accommodation & Meal Type | Fall/Spring | Summer (8 Week Session) | Summer (4 Week Session) |
|---|---|---|---|
Double Occupancy and Meal Plan | INR 4.86 L | INR 74.5 K | INR 37.3 K |
Single Occupancy and Meal Plan | INR 6.20 L | INR 1.11 L | INR 55.7 K |
Super Single and Meal Plan | INR 6.38 L | N/A | N/A |
Super Double and Meal Plan | INR 5.12 L | N/A | N/A |
Corbin Suite-Single and Meal Plan | INR 7.37 L | N/A | N/A |
Corbin Suite-Double and Meal Plan | INR 5.12 L | N/A | N/A |
Grote-Double and Meal Plan | INR 5.27 L | N/A | |
Grote-Single and Meal Plan | INR 6.12 L | N/A | N/A |
ResNet (High Speed Internet) | INR 10.75 K | N/A | N/A |
WIU FAQs
Western Illinois University offers a number of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The minimum GPA requirement for each programme will vary from programme to program. Therefore, internatioanl students should check the minimum GPA requirement before applying for any course in the Western Illinois University. The minimum GPA requirement for international students is given below:
- A minimum 2.75 cumulative high school GPA or higher (on a 4.00 scale)
- Applicants with a 2.00–2.74 cumulative high school GPA are eligible for a holistic review of credentials to be considered for admission.
Western Illinois University has been ranked #201-250 in the United States by U.S. News & World Report and ranked #401-500 globally by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022. It is also affordable as compared to many private universities in USA.
Whereas Portland State University has been ranked #298 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers a wide range of MS programs in various fields, including business, engineering, education, and social work and has a diverse student body and a commitment to social justice and sustainability.
WIU
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 7 months ago
International applicants are required to submit some documents that are mandatory for admission. Those documents might vary with the programme applying to. The documents that are required in general by the Western Illinois University at the time of admission include:
- Academic records
- English language
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 7 months ago
Western Illinois University requires English language eligibility test scores by international students as an admission requirement. The university accepts various test scores like IELTS, TOEFL and PTE. The following table mentions the minimum required scores in the tests so as to fulfil the English
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 7 months ago
According to the recent data on the official site of Western Illinois University, In the Fall of 2024, the international student count was 652, which constituted almost 10.3% of the total student strength at the university. International students take admissions from over 132 countries across the wo
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 7 months ago
The MS in Computer Science programme in the Western Illinois University is a comprehensive programme on the foundational and advanced computer principles for individuals who want to grow practical experience in this field. The duration of this programme is generally 2 years and is offered in full-ti
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 7 months ago
For undergraduate admissions, Western Illinois University generally requirement a minimum GPA of 2.75 or higher, on a scale of 4.0. For postgraduate programs, the university requires a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a scale of 4.0. The GPA requirements highly depends on the programme the applicant is choos
S
Contributor-Level 10
About the author
Study Abroad Expert
Western Illinois University
Western Illinois University
Western Illinois University
WIULocation
| University City | Macomb, Illinois, USA |
WIUCampuses
1 University Cir, Macomb, IL 61455, USA
Visit official siteWIUContact Information
1 University Cir, Macomb, IL 61455, United States
Macomb ( Illinois)
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