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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Illinois College

Jacksonville, Illinois · www.ic.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

78.2%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$38,676

$50,702 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

937

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

63.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 67.4%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Illinois College, located in Jacksonville, Illinois, is a distinguished liberal arts institution with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1829. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic education, Illinois College emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and ethical decision-making. The college's motto, "A Tradition of Excellence," reflects its dedication to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in their professional and personal lives.

The college offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, allowing students to explore their interests while receiving a well-rounded education. With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 12:1, Illinois College fosters a close-knit academic environment where students can engage closely with their professors and peers. The campus is vibrant with student life, featuring numerous organizations, clubs, and athletic teams that encourage participation and foster a sense of community. Moreover, the college’s commitment to service and leadership can be seen through various outreach programs that connect students with the local community, enhancing their educational experience while making a positive impact. Overall, Illinois College stands out as a nurturing ground for aspiring leaders and critical thinkers.

Analysis of Key Trends in Illinois College Data

The data from Illinois College reveals several noteworthy trends that are critical for understanding the institution's evolving landscape. One of the most prominent trends is the significant increase in tuition costs over the years. Tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has risen steadily from $27,800 in 2014 to $37,470 in 2024, reflecting a growth of approximately 35%. This escalation in tuition can contribute to financial burdens for students and their families, potentially affecting enrollment and retention rates.

The student population also presents an interesting picture. Despite fluctuations, the number of undergraduate students has shown a general upward trend, rising from 970 in 2013 to 1,154 in 2021. However, the numbers have since decreased to 1,028 by 2023, indicating a possible decline in interest or capacity challenges in the recent years. This decline could be influenced by the rising costs of attendance or changing demographics in higher education.

Graduation rates have displayed variability, with the on-time graduation rate reaching a high of 66.3% in 2017 before dipping to around 63% in 2023. This inconsistency in graduation rates may reflect changes in student support services or academic preparedness among incoming cohorts. Retention rates have also experienced slight fluctuations, maintaining around 72% to 81% throughout the years, but showing a decrease to approximately 72.6% in the latest year. This suggests that while students are initially enrolled, keeping them engaged and supported through to graduation remains a persistent challenge.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted slightly, with male representation decreasing from approximately 51% in 2013 to about 47% in 2023. This gradual decline in male enrollment could have implications for future academic programs and campus initiatives aimed at fostering a balanced and inclusive environment.

Overall, the data highlights critical areas for Illinois College to address, particularly concerning tuition sustainability, student retention, and support structures to ensure that students can graduate successfully.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
St. Louis, about 80 mi
Nearest international airport
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), about 70 mi
Jacksonville, Illinois
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Presbyterian Church (USA)
President
Barbara Farley (President)
Phone
2172453000
City
Jacksonville, Illinois
Address
1101 West College Ave, Jacksonville, IL 62650-2299

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
77.7%
Women
78.6%

In 2020: men 72.3%, women 82.2%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#111Ranked #111 every year from 2026 to 2026

Data insights

Analysis of Illinois College Admission Trends

The admission data for Illinois College over the years reveals significant trends in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the male acceptance rate displayed a general decline from 67.07% in 2009 to 75.41% in 2023, suggesting an increasingly competitive environment for male applicants. Conversely, the female acceptance rate has fluctuated more dramatically, peaking at 82.24% in 2020 and dropping to 78.87% in 2023. This indicates a more stable yet competitive landscape for female applicants, with a consistent demand for enrollment.
The enrollment numbers show an interesting trajectory as well. The college witnessed a substantial increase in enrollment from 166 students in 2009, reaching a peak of 323 students in 2020. However, the subsequent years have shown a decrease in enrollment numbers, which could reflect broader trends in higher education, including demographic shifts and changing perceptions of value in college degrees.
Moreover, the number of denied applicants has also risen significantly, peaking at 1,261 in 2015, which indicates a growing number of students pursuing admission to Illinois College. This rise in denial numbers, coupled with the increase in deferrals, could suggest that while the college is becoming more selective, many students are still interested in finding a place within its community.
Overall, the data suggests that Illinois College is navigating a challenging admission landscape, with shifting acceptance rates and changing enrollment patterns. These trends may reflect broader societal changes in education, economic factors, and student preferences, all of which are crucial for the institution to consider in future planning and recruitment strategies.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 37% submitted SAT, 12% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total883–1180Peer median 1220
ACT composite19–26
SAT Reading
450–590
600700800
SAT Math
433–590
600700800
ACT composite
19–26
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Scores at Illinois College

The admissions data from Illinois College over the years presents an intriguing picture of academic performance trends among incoming students. Notably, there has been a fluctuating number of standardized test submissions, with a significant increase in the number of students submitting SAT scores in 2022 and 2023 compared to earlier years. In 2022, for example, 57% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, which is a remarkable increase from only 8% in 2007. This shift may indicate changing attitudes toward standardized testing or increased accessibility to test preparation resources.

Examining the score ranges reveals a nuanced narrative. The 25th to 75th percentile range for SAT reading and math scores has seen some fluctuations, particularly with the SAT reading scores starting at 480 and ending at 590 in 2022, and similarly for the following year. The range for the ACT scores reflects consistency, with the composite scores maintaining a stable range throughout the years. The scores suggest that while the overall academic caliber of admitted students appears relatively stable, the diversity in performance is growing, as evidenced by broader score ranges.

Overall, these trends may reflect broader national conversations regarding the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions, especially as many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies. As Illinois College continues to adapt to these changes, it will be interesting to see how these shifts impact not just the admissions process but also the overall academic environment on campus.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

3,820 applicants in 2025, 78.2% admitted

2,987 admitted 833 not admitted Yield 8.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2083 international (1.4%)
Master's20 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology
20
Agricultural Business and Management, General
17
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
17
Business Administration and Management, General
16
Education, General
13
Psychology, General
13
Accounting
11
Criminology
11
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other
8
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Nursing Administration · Master's2 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Illinois College

The graduation data from Illinois College for 2023 reveals several notable trends across various disciplines. The psychology program leads with 25 graduates, highlighting its popularity and the increasing interest in mental health fields. Similarly, business administration also shows significant numbers, with 19 graduates, reflecting the ongoing demand for skills in management and commerce.

Interestingly, there is a substantial representation of international students in the biology field, with one graduate, indicating a niche yet growing interest among international students in biological sciences. This aligns with global trends where biology and health-related fields are increasingly favored due to their relevance in addressing contemporary health challenges.

The absence of graduates in several categories, particularly in foreign languages and interdisciplinary studies, raises questions about the current academic interest and job market viability in these areas. This could suggest a need for these programs to adapt or innovate to attract more students, especially in an era where multilingualism and interdisciplinary approaches are becoming more valued.

Moreover, the data shows a complete lack of master's and doctorate graduates in most fields, indicating a potential gap in advanced education pathways at this institution. As job markets evolve, further emphasis on graduate programs may be essential to ensure that students have opportunities for specialization and leadership roles in their chosen fields.

Overall, the graduation statistics at Illinois College reflect broader educational and market trends, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in academic offerings to meet student interests and workforce demands. It will be crucial for the college to analyze these trends further to enhance its educational strategies and offerings in the future.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$48,159
Accounting.$58,665
Finance, General.$57,362
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
Actuarial Science.-
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Biologyhas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$37,393
Biochemistry.-
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology.-
Health professionshas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$75,522
Nursing Administration.$75,522
Social sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminology.-
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Agricultural has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Agricultural Business and Management, General.$44,305
Psychology has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$43,686
Educationhas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.$38,991
English has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Rhetoric and Composition.-
History has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Physical scienceshas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Computer and information sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Science.-
Communication has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Organizational Communication, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Natural resources has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Studies.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
International/Globalization Studies.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Engineeringhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mechanical Engineering.-
Visual and Performing artshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Art/Art Studies, General.-

Students

942 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 70.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (937)

White
667 · 71.2%
Hispanic
90 · 9.6%
Black
81 · 8.6%
International
36 · 3.8%
Unknown
31 · 3.3%
Two or more races
21 · 2.2%
Asian
9 · 1.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.1%
18–19
34.4%
20–21
39.7%
22–24
16.1%
25 and over
9.7%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
0.0%
25–29
40.0%
30–34
20.0%
35 and over
40.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Illinois College (2023)

The student demographic data from Illinois College in 2023 reveals a diverse and balanced community, particularly among undergraduate students. The first-year undergraduate students constitute the largest group with 233 individuals, showing a slight male dominance at 51.9%, while the upperclassmen, numbering 712, reflect a more pronounced female majority at 53.5%. This shift in gender ratios suggests an increasing trend of female enrollment in higher education, consistent with national patterns observed in many colleges across the United States.

The transfer student population is significantly smaller, with only 66 students, where females represent 65.2% of this group, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting male transfer students. Interestingly, the graduate student demographic is represented by a single individual, who is a female, highlighting a need for further investment in graduate programs to enhance enrollment and diversity in this category.

In terms of racial diversity, while specific figures for the upperclassmen and transfer students were not disclosed, the first-year students show a promising distribution among different racial groups, with white students forming the majority. However, the presence of other ethnicities, such as Asian, Latina, and African American students, is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.

This data aligns with broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly focusing on diversity and inclusion. Illinois College appears to be on the right track, but there remains an opportunity to enhance outreach and support for underrepresented groups, particularly in graduate studies and among transfer students. Overall, the demographics reflect a college community that is evolving and adapting to the changing landscape of higher education.

Age Demographics at Illinois College in 2023

The age distribution of students at Illinois College reveals interesting trends in the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. The majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 189 male undergraduates and 197 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and 209 male undergraduates and 250 female undergraduates aged 20-21. This significant presence of younger students highlights the college's appeal to traditional-aged college students, which aligns with national trends showing that most university students are between 18 and 24 years old.

However, as we move to older age categories, the numbers drastically decline. For students aged 22-24, there are only 67 male undergraduates compared to 53 female undergraduates. The numbers continue to drop for those aged 25-29, with just 5 male undergraduates and 13 female undergraduates. This decline could indicate a trend where older students may opt for alternative education paths or may not pursue full-time undergraduate studies.

The data also reflects a notable absence of graduate male students, which raises questions about gender representation in advanced studies. The only graduate male student appears to be in the 30-34 age group, while female graduate students are present across various age groups, especially among those aged 40-49, where there are 14 female students.

Overall, the age demographics at Illinois College suggest a strong focus on attracting younger undergraduate students, while also indicating potential areas for growth in supporting non-traditional students and older demographics in graduate programs. This insight could be valuable for the college as it looks to tailor its programs and services to better meet the needs of a diverse student body.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.8%

36 in 2025 · 3.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.7%2017: 4.5%2018: 6.0%2019: 6.4%2020: 5.8%2021: 2.9%2022: 4.2%2023: 4.9%2024: 5.6%2025: 3.8%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Illinois College

The data on international student enrollment at Illinois College reveals noteworthy trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students has shown a gradual increase. Starting from a mere 1.08% in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates rose to 4.86% by 2023, indicating a growing acceptance and integration of international students within the college community. This increase corresponds with a broader trend in U.S. higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse student bodies.

Interestingly, the peak percentage of 6.41% occurred in 2019, suggesting a significant interest in studying at Illinois College during that period. However, the subsequent drop in both the international undergraduate count and percentage in 2021 might reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global student mobility.

While the data provides insight into undergraduate trends, the lack of comprehensive data for graduate international enrollment limits a full understanding of the college's overall performance in attracting global talent. The figures for graduate students show a minor participation, with only 1 graduate student reported in 2023. This stark contrast highlights a potential area for growth, as many universities strive to attract more graduate-level international students, who often contribute significantly to research and campus diversity.

Overall, the trends at Illinois College reflect broader dynamics in higher education, where increasing globalization calls for institutions to adapt and cater to an international student demographic. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, it will be crucial for Illinois College to implement strategies to bolster international enrollment across all levels.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$50,702

Undergraduate tuition
$38,676
Room and board
$12,026
Graduate tuition
$18,300
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 22% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$42.1M

Investment return
$17.3M41.2%
Tuition and fees
$12.0M28.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.5M17.9%
Gifts and private grants
$3.4M8.1%
Government grants and contracts
$1.7M4.0%

Expenses$44.2M

Student services
$13.0M29.3%
Instruction
$11.3M25.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.7M17.5%
Institutional support
$6.6M15.0%
Academic support
$5.6M12.6%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$69,039peers $65,931
Professor
$81,375peers $77,501
Associate professor
$69,213peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$61,369peers $61,725
Instructor
$61,280peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Midwest Conference

Midwest Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)9061
Football112-
Soccer3225
Baseball48-
Basketball2320
Swimming1412
Volleyball-23
Softball-21
Golf155
Tennis119
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)8158
Football112-
Soccer3125
Baseball48-
Basketball2216
Softball-31
Golf169
Swimming1014
Volleyball-19
Tennis79
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7057
Football108-
Soccer4122
Baseball48-
Basketball2123
Swimming921
Golf1910
Softball-28
Volleyball-23
Tennis88

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities located near Illinois College:

  1. Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, this private research university is renowned for its academic rigor and vibrant campus life.

  2. Saint Louis University - With a rank of 105, this Jesuit university offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its commitment to service and social justice.

  3. Bradley University - Ranked 185th, Bradley University emphasizes experiential learning and has a strong focus on engineering, business, and health sciences.

  4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - This flagship university ranks 35th and is recognized for its research contributions and expansive academic offerings across various fields.

  5. Purdue University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 43, Purdue is well-known for its engineering and technology programs, providing a robust educational experience.

These institutions contribute to a rich academic environment in the region, offering a variety of programs and opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
130
Drug referrals
50
Dating violence
6
Fondling
4
Burglary
4
Rape
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Crime Trends at Illinois College: A Closer Look

The crime statistics from Illinois College reveal intriguing trends over the years, reflecting a fluctuating campus safety environment. In 2015, the average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked at 49.95, indicating heightened concerns regarding student safety. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness and reporting of crimes, as well as potential external socio-economic influences affecting student behavior.

Following this peak, the data shows a gradual decline in crime rates, with a notable drop in 2022 to an average of 15.68 per 1,000 students. This significant decrease could signal improvements in campus safety measures, community engagement, or effective crime prevention programs implemented by the college. The reduction in incidents such as drug and alcohol arrests, as well as domestic violence cases, suggest a collective effort to foster a safer campus environment.

Interestingly, despite the overall decline, the data indicates that certain crime types, such as stalking and assault, still require attention. Continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to address these issues, ensuring that students feel secure in their educational surroundings.

As we analyze these statistics, it's crucial to recognize that while the numbers provide insight into campus safety, they also prompt a broader conversation about the societal factors contributing to crime trends. Maintaining a safe academic environment is a shared responsibility among students, faculty, and community members.

For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Illinois College include William Jennings Bryan (Three-time Democratic presidential nominee), John Wesley Powell (Explorer who led the 1869 Colorado River expedition) and Cheri Bustos (Former U.S. Representative from Illinois).

See all 24 notable alumni of Illinois College →

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.