We Welcome Home Schooled Applicants

We may offer a big name degree, but our warm, personal learning environment will feel familiar.

  • Rigorous, University of Illinois academics
  • Safe campus; mid-sized city
  • Professors who know you
  • One-on-one tutoring
  • The Learning Hub offers free academic support to all current UIS students
  • Supplemental instruction

If you have questions or an interest in the University of Illinois Springfield, please feel free to contact our Homeschool Admission Counselor, Sarah Adams, via email or phone (888) 977-4847.

Home School Applicants FAQ

What are the admission requirements for home school graduates?

We require a completed application, an application fee or fee waiver, and an official high school transcript (which includes transcripts submitted by a parent/teacher). 

What should be included in my transcript?

A brief summary of course content may be requested. Include details of your completed and current coursework, including grades for each course, beginning with the 9th grade. The transcript MUST include the signature of the individual who prepared it.

You may use our transcript template(pdf) if you do not already have one. The information can be entered directly into the PDF form and then printed for signature.

The transcript MUST be signed by hand, and sent to UIS via postal mail with the return address of the preparing person or entity.

Do you require the GED?

No. The GED is not required when official transcripts are submitted.

Will you accept letters of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation are not required or accepted. The exception to that is the UIS Capital Scholars program, which may request that you submit letters of recommendation in addition to the credentials supplied for admission. You will be notified if your application indicates that you are eligible.

Is there an application deadline?

Applicants seeking admission as first-year student are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible. Applications will be evaluated when all application materials are received.

Can home school graduates compete for academic scholarships?

Yes. All applicants will automatically be considered for any applicable merit-based scholarships. Your application for admission is your scholarship application. There is no need to submit any further materials. 

What types of Majors and Minors are offered?

UIS offers 44 degree-granting programs. Courses are offered during the day, in the evening, on weekends, and online. To view a list of our offerings, visit the academics page.

  • Average class size is 13 students
  • 23 bachelor’s degree programs, 20 master’s degree programs; 1 doctoral program
  • UIS, a wireless campus, boasts: “smart classrooms,” the Norris L. Brookens Library, PC and Mac computer labs, television studio, free laundry, a Career Resource Center, Learning Hub, and the nation's largest wetlands restoration project.

If I’m interested in living on campus, can I choose a roommate?

Yes. If you do not have someone in mind, you will be matched with other students with similar interests and/or lifestyle preferences (details on the housing application). We also have special wings in our residence halls for students with similar interests, including:

  • Leadership for Life (for students who seek volunteerism, civic engagement and leadership opportunities); and
  • Healthy Lifestyles (residents pledge to abstain from alcohol, tobacco and controlled substances, and participate in activities and events that promote holistic wellness).

What sort of campus Organizations or Clubs are available?

We encourage students to join organizations to help broaden their experience. Our student organizations help comprise a very special community on campus whose members share strong friendships and lots of fun.

  • Academic/Honorary
  • Cultural/Diversity
  • General Interest
  • Political/Advocacy
  • Religious/Spiritual
  • Service
  • Sports Teams

How do I meet my faith commitment at a public university?

The University of Illinois Springfield welcomes students of all faiths and strives to create an environment that respects and supports the faith commitments of all students. Take some time to explore our 85+ student organizations. You’ll find there are several that are dedicated to providing a campus community for students who wish to express their faith. If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to ask us. We can connect you with current students who can answer your specific questions. We want to assure you that you can attend a public university, get a great education at an affordable cost, and still maintain your faith commitment.