Illinois Wesleyan University is making it easier for McLean County students to attend IWU.
IWU is expanding its McLean County Direct Admission program, which guarantees a spot at the university for qualified seniors from all 13 high schools in the county.
“Expanding McLean County Direct Admit to every high school in the county sends a simple message to local students: We want you here,” said Gaelyn Rose, vice president of enrollment at IWU, in a written statement shared with local media. “Talented students should be able to see Illinois Wesleyan as an accessible, attainable next step — not simply a university in their hometown but a place that is actively investing in their future.”
Since the program’s inception in 2024, only students from five countywide high schools could benefit.
Wesleyan is also increasing the minimum scholarship guarantee for in-county students to $40,000 annually, cutting tuition essentially in half.
Most in-county residents are eligible and can receive the scholarship money with their regular college application rather than needing to fill out a separate scholarship application.
The scholarship “connects the university with the broader Bloomington-Normal region with a focus on keeping talented students in the community for college and beyond," said Jesse Meyer, vice president for advancement.
The minimum scholarship guarantee was at $34,000 in 2024, and $36,000 in 2025.
Students admitted with restrictions, meaning they are admitted with academic conditions designed to support their transition to college-level coursework, are not eligible for the scholarship. These students are still encouraged to apply at the university. It is also primarily intended only for students in the high school class of 2027, though transfer students may be considered.
