Qualified Illinois State University graduates have a guaranteed path to interview for health sciences programs at Midwestern University in Downers Grove.
A new admissions agreement between the two schools, announced by Midwestern University on Friday, Nov. 6, begins with the class matriculating in fall 2026. Qualified ISU applicants receive guaranteed admission interviews across programs in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, optometry, podiatric medicine and health sciences disciplines.
For some programs, the deal goes further than an interview. The College of Graduate Studies on both Midwestern University's Downers Grove and Glendale, Arizona, campuses guarantees acceptance for qualified ISU applicants, according to the agreement's terms. Those programs include biomedical sciences and precision medicine degrees.
At the Downers Grove campus specifically, interview guarantees cover occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and optometry.
"Our students are well-prepared for the rigor of graduate education, and this agreement recognizes that preparation by offering students … a direct opportunity to interview for admission to selected allied health and medical degree programs," said Dr. Ani Yazedjian, Illinois State University's vice president for academic affairs and provost.
The bar varies by program. Aspiring physician assistant students need a 3.60 cumulative GPA and a 3.70 science GPA, plus 500 patient contact hours. Osteopathic medicine applicants must hold a 3.50 cumulative GPA, a 3.60 science GPA and score at least 504 on the MCAT. Pharmacy applicants need a 3.00 cumulative GPA.
Applicants must also complete prerequisite coursework, meet standardized test requirements and demonstrate healthcare or shadowing experience before matriculation.
The agreement does not guarantee admission. Final decisions rest with each program's admissions committee, subject to approval by the dean or program director.
Either institution can discontinue the agreement with 12 months' written notice. Students already accepted under its terms would be allowed to finish their programs.
