BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Illinois Wesleyan University is furthering its investment in McLean County students through two distinct initiatives: expanding its McLean County Direct Admission program to all 13 McLean County high schools and increasing the minimum scholarship guarantee for McLean County residents to $40,000 per year. Through Direct Admission, qualifying seniors are guaranteed a spot at IWU, streamlining the college admissions process.

Together, these initiatives reflect Illinois Wesleyan’s 176-year commitment to investing in the students and future of the McLean County community.

“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 Illinois Wesleyan. “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.”

Illinois Wesleyan launched its McLean County Direct Admission program in 2024 with five local high schools. The expanded program will now partner with:

  • Bloomington High School
  • Central Catholic High School
  • Calvary Christian Academy
  • Cornerstone Christian Academy
  • Heyworth High School
  • LeRoy High School
  • Lexington High School
  • Normal Community High School
  • Normal West High School
  • Olympia High School
  • Ridgeview High School
  • Tri-Valley High School
  • University High School

Additionally, Illinois Wesleyan has increased the minimum total scholarship package to $40,000 per year for eligible McLean County students in the Class of 2027. The guarantee is renewable for up to four years.

Established by the IWU Associates, this scholarship and the local students it supports “connects the University with the broader Bloomington-Normal region with a focus on keeping talented students in the community for college and beyond”, according to Jesse Meyer, vice president for advancement. “The momentum here is felt throughout our community and loyal alumni. It’s their generous giving and belief in this place that makes this enhanced scholarship possible.”

“Our minimum $40,000 scholarship guarantee makes this opportunity more tangible for students and families,” Rose said. “College decisions are deeply personal, and affordability is often central to them. By making a substantial, clear investment in admitted McLean County students, we hope families can more confidently include Illinois Wesleyan in their plans.”

The expanded Direct Admission program and increased scholarship guarantee represent separate initiatives with a shared goal: investing in the students and future of McLean County, including fostering the next generation of workforce for the region.

Students who do not meet the Direct Admission criteria are still encouraged to apply through the University’s admission process.