Illinois State University is Illinois' first public university, founded in 1857. At Illinois State, we devote our resources and energies to creating a supportive and productive campus community for all - students, faculty, staff, alumni, retirees, contributors, and visitors. Illinois State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Illinois State University's campus is in the twin-city community of Bloomington-Normal near the geographic center of the state, 137 miles southwest of Chicago and 164 miles northeast of St. Louis. Interstates 74, 55, and 39; U.S. Route 150; and Illinois Route 9 intersect in Bloomington-Normal, creating a transportation hub. An Amtrak passenger station is just two blocks from the University.