Application Process

When to Apply

Starting Term	Application Period
Fall	October 1 – July 15

 

Only complete applications will be reviewed.  Applicants considering applying after the noted deadlines should contact the Graduate Program Advisor prior to beginning the application process.

An application review and the admission process generally takes 3 to 4 weeks.  Admitted applicants must have cleared a criminal background check and drug screen along with specified health and safety forms through MCN before enrolling in first semester courses.  

Applicants who reside in Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri and Iowa have the benefit of paying In-State tuition at Illinois State University.

Step 1: Complete the online application

Applicants can fill out an online application in    GradCAS

All application materials, including transcripts, will be submitted as part of your GradCAS application.  Make sure you have the following materials ready to upload to your application.  

• Current resume
• Three to five page double spaced essay outlining research interests and career goals
• Copy of RN license (not required until after student has been accepted)
• Three professional or academic references selected

International applicants:  Please refer to this site prior to submitting an application:  https://illinoisstate.edu/admissions/international/online-program-disclosure/  Additionally, international applicants must submit a Credentials Evaluation Service Academic Report from CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools).  Applicants must comply with the International Applicant Requirements, https://illinoisstate.edu/admissions/international/requirements/, as directed by the Illinois State University Office of Admissions. Please apply early in the application process to ensure adequate time to review transcripts and Credential Evaluation Reports.

Step 2: Submit references 

Note three professional or academic references in the online application.  The form linked below will be available to your references to submit electronically through the online application.

References should be from persons qualified to assess the applicant's potential to succeed in the program, with one reference from a doctorally prepared nurse. 

Reference Form