Preparing to Live at Illinois State

Besides academics, living on or near campus is the biggest change for many students who transfer to Illinois State. You certainly didn't miss the traditional college living experience.

Decide your living arrangements

Living on campus

Many transfer students choose to live in the residence halls because of location, convenience, and social opportunities. If you are transferring to the University within two years of high school graduation you must live on campus. You should complete your housing contract as early as possible for the best room selection. They fill up fast, so admission to the University does not guarantee you a space. Look for information in the mail from University Housing Services about the application process. Learn more about living on campus.

Living off campus

Our Off-Campus Student Services website is a good place to start if you’re interested in living off campus. You’ll find rental listings, roommates, rights and responsibilities of off-campus students, and more. They’ll even review your lease for you if you’re unsure about the terms.

Meal Plan Options

Students living on-campus must purchase a meal plan. The plan gives you access to dining centers on campus using your student ID card. There are several options to suit your needs from unlimited dining to a certain number of meals per week or semester. Dining centers are generally open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., with more limited hours on weekends. Learn more about meal plan options and costs for on-campus students at Campus Dining Services.

Off-campus students may also purchase meal plans. Dining centers and meal plans save off-campus students from spending money on restaurant food or taking the time to pack a lunch. Campus Dining Services explains off-campus meal plan options and costs.

Get your parking permit

If you choose to live in the residence halls you will receive information about buying your parking permit in the mail. Off-campus students should visit the Office of Parking and Transportation to purchase a commuter parking permit. Find out about costs and parking locations.

University Terms

You’ll hear many new terms when you come to Illinois State.

Welcome2ISU: Your personalized web portal for admissions, financial aid, housing, and other information before you come to campus.

My.IllinoisState.edu: After you arrive on campus, My.IllinoisState.edu becomes your information portal. You’ll use it to register for classes, confirm attendance, check your grades, and more.

University Identification Number (UID): A number assigned to you at the time you apply to Illinois State. It’s used in place of your social security number to identify you at the University.

University Logon Identification (ULID): The account you’ll use to access your email, the University network, and other electronic resources.

Course Articulation: How your courses from other colleges transfer to Illinois State.

Undeclared status: A temporary status for students who have either not chosen a major or who were not admitted into their preferred major.