Southern Illinois University
Why Southern Illinois University?
Southern Illinois University is a public research university in Carbondale, Illinois. We offer an affordable education in one of the top five states for international students in the US.
As a Carnegie-classified research university, we focus on giving students research opportunities. You can work alongside faculty on ground-breaking research. This helps you gain real-world skills and makes you stand out in your career.
Our campus is located in Southern Illinois. Carbondale has beautiful lakes, scenic bike paths, the Shawnee National Forest and many golf courses. There are also fun cultural activities, like concerts and live theatre.
Our campus is centrally located. This means students can easily travel to nearby Chicago and St. Louis. Studying in Illinois connects you to great career opportunities. The economy is strong and was ranked fifth in size in the US in 2023, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Nicknamed the “Quantum Prairie,” Illinois has four of the US’ 10 quantum computing centers. The state is also home to thousands of global companies and small businesses. This makes Illinois a great place to start your career.
Campus and location
Southern Illinois University campuses
Southern Illinois University
Discover the charm of Carbondale, Illinois, a hidden gem in America’s heartland. Known for scenic lakes, lush landscapes and vibrant communities, Carbondale offers an unforgettable experience. Outside class, you can hike through forest trails, explore boutiques and restaurants or experience local art. Carbondale is also conveniently close to St. Louis, making it easy for students to visit multiple Midwest destinations.
Costs and Entry Requirements
Typical costs
While tuition fees, accommodation prices and food costs may vary depending on your chosen degree, student residences and personal spending habits, below you'll find an estimated cost of attendance at Southern Illinois University.
Cost
Approximate amount per year (USD)
Tuition Fees
$14,032 - $25,597
Accommodation
$2,152 - $7,566
Meals
$2,252 - $2,252
ESTIMATED TOTAL
$18,436
-$35,415
Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements for Southern Illinois University are shown below. Please note that specific admissions requirements may vary by academic program.
Academic Entry Requirements
GPA: 2.75English Language Requirements
IELTS: 6 TOEFL: 68 Duolingo: 95 PTEA: -999 TOEFL Home Edition: -999 TOEFL My Best Score Accepted?: -999 Other Tests: TOEFL score 520 PBT, 2 Face-to-face English composition classed taken in the U.S. at the college level with a grade of A or B, ITEP score 3.6 (academic plus only), PTE 47.
Typical costs
While tuition fees, accommodation prices and food costs may vary depending on your chosen degree, student residences and personal spending habits, below you'll find an estimated cost of attendance at Southern Illinois University.
Cost
Approximate amount per year (USD)
Tuition Fees
$14,158 - $26,835
Accommodation
$2,152 - $7,566
Meals
$2,252 - $2,252
ESTIMATED TOTAL
$18,562
-$36,653
Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements for Southern Illinois University are shown below. Please note that specific admissions requirements may vary by academic program.
Academic Entry Requirements
GPA: 2.7 minimum. Many programs have higher GPA requirementsEnglish Language Requirements
IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 80 Duolingo: 115 PTEA: -999 TOEFL Home Edition: -999 TOEFL My Best Score Accepted?: -999 Other Tests: TOEFL score 550 PBT, ITEP score 5.0 ( academic plus exam only), C1 required on the Cambridge English Exam. PTE 64
Careers
The Career Development Center
The Career Development Center helps all students and recent graduates reach their career goals. The center offers career interest tests, personality assessments and counseling. The center also offers job search preparedness programs and helps students connect with employers.
To help students find great internships and jobs, the campus holds job fairs in the fall and spring. Students can also improve their professional look by getting free clothes from the Professional Clothing Closet. Some of the items available include business suits, pants, dresses and shoes.
Start your career in Illinois
Studying at Southern Illinois University means you can start your career in one of the most dynamic states in the US. Illinois is home to 32 Fortune 500 companies — the fourth largest concentration of such companies in the country. The state’s economy is also very diverse, with a strong focus on manufacturing, technology, finance and business.
Students can find internship and career opportunities in Chicago. This city is the world’s fifth largest global financial center. It also has the second largest business district in the US after Midtown Manhattan. You can launch your career in media, finance, business, technology, healthcare or engineering. Aside from its strong job market, Chicago is also more affordable compared to other major American cities.
What is the job outlook like for top Southern Illinois University programs? Take a look at the median annual salaries for key careers in Illinois, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023:
Data Scientist - $115,840
Aerospace Engineer - $125,450
Biomedical Engineer - $98,350
Registered Nurse - $87,650
Co-ops and internships
Civil engineering students can take part in co-ops and internships. This lets you gain hands-on experience in addition to classroom learning. You can participate in co-ops and internships at the Illinois Department of Transportation, IBM, Boeing, Ameren and more.
Computer science students can intern at Apple, AT&T, Google, Microsoft, NBC Universal and more.
You can find our civil engineering graduates working at the following companies:
Cannon Design
City of Decatur
Federal Aviation Administration
Nestle
Peabody Energy
Great Lakes Region Small Business Transportation Resource Center
Illinois Office of Water Resources
Accommodation
You can find information about accommodation on Southern Illinois University’s website.
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Services and facilities
Tomorrow’s healers and leaders
SIU School of Medicine stands out as an educational innovation and inclusivity, offering you a unique and enriching experience. With a commitment to excellence in medical education, SIU provides a dynamic environment where students worldwide can thrive academically and professionally.
Student-centered education
Small class sizes for personalized attention and help create meaningful interactions between students and faculty.
With a nearly 1:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you receive tailored support and guidance, allowing you to pursue your specific research interests.
Get immersed in clinical experiences, with practical insights and a head start in your career.
Living on campus
We offer a convenient and vibrant community life that enhances your university experience. Here’s what you can expect:
Living Learning Communities (LLCs): Live with fellow students who share your academic goals and interests, fostering lasting relationships with your peers.
University housing and residence life: Throughout the year, numerous events are organized, from cultural events and seminars to social gatherings and workshops.
Move-in day assistance: A team of staff and volunteers is on hand to help you settle into your new home upon arrival. It’s a great opportunity to meet your Resident Assistant (RA) and neighbors.
How to apply
How to apply
Application deadlines
Fall: -999 Spring: -999 Summer: -999 SIU does not have an official application deadline (for most majors) for international students, however, students should allow enough time for visa documents to be processed (minimum 2 months)
Application documents required to receive an offer
High School Transcripts: ONLY if you have taken less than 26 credits at another college/university. High School Diploma Passport: Photocopy of first two pages of passport. English Test Score Accounting Of Time University Transcript (transfer students) Proof of Degree (transfer students) Unofficial documents are permitted for evaluation purposes. If you submit unofficial records (those which do not bear the original signature of the institution's representative) you will delay admission consideration because these documents cannot be used. You must submit credentials that bear the official seal and have been signed by the registrar, headmaster, or dean of the institution issuing the documents. Photocopies will be accepted if they bear the institution's original seal and the original signature of the school official certifying the documents. Original certificates and/or transcripts can be returned to you unless the institution submitting the documents indicates that they are not to be given to you. Please also submit an official English translation if the original is not in English. Financial Statement - You must include a bank statement or letter from your sponsor and return it with your admission application. (Your bank statement is a letter from a representative of the bank where you, your parents, or your sponsor maintain an account. Must be within the last 6 months).
Testing codes
TOEFL: 1726 SAT: 1726 ACT: 1144 GRE: 1726
Post-offer process
Confirmation deadlines
Fall: -999 Spring: -999 Summer: -999 Confirmation dates may change. Please check with your admissions advisor for the latest information.
Preparing for arrival
Before arrival
Create Online Student Account Register for Orientation: https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/orientation.php Review International Student Handbook Apply for Housing (On-Campus and/or Off-Campus): Set-up temporary housing and research permanent housing options: https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/temporary-housing.php or https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/carbondale-housing.php Airport Transfer Options Available: View transportation information: https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/transportation.php Complete Immunization and Health Forms: All students are required to show proof of immunization. Please obtain your records before you arrive to Carbondale using the SIU Health Service Form: https://shc.siu.edu/immunizations/ Enroll in Student Health Insurance: Effective for the Fall 2024 term, international students will now be required to use the on-line waiver system managed by Gallagher Student Health. The new system is better able to identify if an outside insurance plan is compliant with ALL university health insurance requirements. This means that insurance plans approved under the previous process may now be denied if they are found to not meet ALL university health insurance requirements. It is recommended that prior to purchasing an insurance plan you confirm with the agent selling the plan that the plan meets ALL university health insurance requirements. Also, effective for the Fall term 2024, international students must upload proof of repatriation and medical evacuation coverage as part of the new waiver application process. https://shc.siu.edu/health-insurance/health-insurance-requirements.php Submit Photo for Student Card Take Placement Tests (Math, English, etc.) Submit Final/Official Transcripts and Test Scores Pay Tuition and Fees Claim your SIU Network ID (also called a Dawg Tag) - this number was provided to you on your admission letter (SIU85xxxxxxx). https://oitkb.siu.edu/knowledge-base/account-claim/
After arrival
Attend Orientation Register for Classes: https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/class-registration.php Submit Final/Official Transcripts and Test Scores if not sent earlier Pay Remaining Tuition and Fees if applicable How to Pay Health Screening International Students should also report to the Center for International Education (CIE) - 425 Clocktower Drive, Woody Hall, to: Present your I-20 and passport, and state that you are a new graduate student. Obtain information and schedules for the Orientation Programs for new international students, which will be held the week before classes begin. Obtain any information SIU may have regarding temporary and/or permanent housing in Carbondale.
How to apply
Application deadlines
Fall: varies by program Spring: varies by program Summer: varies by program SIU does not have an official application deadline (for most majors) for international students, however, students should allow enough time for visa documents to be processed (minimum 2 months)
Application documents required to receive an offer
High School Transcripts High School Diploma Passport: Photocopy of first two pages of passport English Test Score Accounting Of Time University Transcript: All final, official transcripts from all institutions that were attended. Degrees must be conferred/awarded on the transcript. Diploma/Degree Certificate showing the degree received is also accepted. Proof of Degree GRE/GMAT: Official GRE scores are scores that are sent directly from ETS to the academic program or to the Graduate School. Official GRE scores are REQUIRED before admission to be considered for the Alternative High Achiever Tuition Rate. Portfolio Reference Letters Personal Statement/Essay Unofficial documents are permitted for evaluation purposes. Work Experience Proof of Funds: International applicants must affirm that they are responsible for paying all tuition, fees and living expenses for the entire period of the intended study program. Applicants must document the estimated full cost of the first academic year of study, following admission, before the university can issue a Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019) for F-1 or J-1 visa issuance. Students being offered a Graduate Assistantship will require confirmation of the offer from their hiring unit.
For more information, please refer to the Affidavit of Support Information & Form. Submission of this form and proof of financial sources will be required for financial clearance.
Testing codes
TOEFL: 1726 SAT: 1726 ACT: 1144 GRE: 1726
Post-offer process
Confirmation deadlines
Fall: -999 Spring: -999 Summer: -999 Confirmation dates may change. Please check with your admissions advisor for the latest information.
Preparing for arrival
Before arrival
Create Online Student Account Register for Orientation Review International Student Handbook Apply for Housing (On-Campus and/or Off-Campus): Set-up temporary housing and research permanent housing options: https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/temporary-housing.php or https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/carbondale-housing.php Airport Transfer Options Available: View transportation information: https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/transportation.php Complete Immunization and Health Forms: All students are required to show proof of immunization. Please obtain your records before you arrive to Carbondale using the SIU Health Service Form: https://shc.siu.edu/immunizations/ Enroll in Student Health Insurance: Effective for the Fall 2024 term, international students will now be required to use the on-line waiver system managed by Gallagher Student Health. The new system is better able to identify if an outside insurance plan is compliant with ALL university health insurance requirements. This means that insurance plans approved under the previous process may now be denied if they are found to not meet ALL university health insurance requirements. It is recommended that prior to purchasing an insurance plan you confirm with the agent selling the plan that the plan meets ALL university health insurance requirements. Also, effective for the Fall term 2024, international students must upload proof of repatriation and medical evacuation coverage as part of the new waiver application process. https://shc.siu.edu/health-insurance/health-insurance-requirements.php Submit Photo for Student Card Submit Final/Official Transcripts and Test Scores Pay Tuition and Fees How to Pay
After arrival
Attend Orientation Register for Classes: https://cie.siu.edu/international-students/admitted-students/class-registration.php Submit Final/Official Transcripts and Test Scores if not sent earlier Pay Remaining Tuition and Fees if applicable Health Screening International Students should also report to the Center for International Education (CIE) - 425 Clocktower Drive, Woody Hall, to: Present your I-20 and passport, and state that you are a new graduate student. Obtain information and schedules for the Orientation Programs for new international students, which will be held the week before classes begin. Obtain any information SIU may have regarding temporary and/or permanent housing in Carbondale.