Admissions

Photo of a group of students walking down a sidewalk.

Welcome, Students!

Western Illinois offers a supportive environment for undocumented students and welcomes all students regardless of citizenship status. Students have access to all of the services available at Western Illinois. One primary resource for students at Western is our Multicultural Center, which provides educational, social, and cultural programs and resources for all students.

Macomb, IL, is home to our residential campus in a safe and welcoming college-town community. Moline, IL (Quad Cities) is home to our non-residential campus in a dynamic metropolitan area.

Admission

Students who apply to WIU, with or without Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), are treated identically to any U.S. citizen or permanent resident for admission. Apply for admission at wiu.edu/apply. A social security number is not required for admission or to complete the application.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students may be eligible for WIU scholarships, such as the Western Commitment of up to $8,000. See the University-awarded scholarships , along with many other scholarships:

Undocumented Illinois residents can complete the Alternative Application for Federal Student Aid. This may be done instead of completing the FAFSA.

Western has a specific scholarship, the WIUDREAMers, available for undocumented students:

The WIU DREAMers Scholarship awards a minimum of $5,000 for the academic year for at least two students. It is available for undocumented, DACA, and Temporary Protected Status Students, with a 2.75 high school/college GPA. Students can apply for the WIU DREAMers Scholarship by emailing dreamers@wiu.edu, with the subject line, "DREAMer Fund." In addition, the following documents must be provided:

  • A current resume, transcript (high school if incoming student or college if it is a current student)
  • A 500-word essay on how the scholarship would enhance your educational goals.

First Generation Students

Many students are also the first in their families to attend college. We’ve created a site just for first generation students that has many useful resources, tips and tricks.

Connect with an Admissions Counselor

Meet with an admissions counselor in your area who can provide more information and guide you through the application process.