Parents & Families of Admitted Students

Congratulations! Welcome to the Bearcat Family!

We’re thrilled to welcome your student to McKendree University! This is an exciting time, and we’re here to support you and your student every step of the way as you take the next steps toward becoming a Bearcat. Choosing the right university is a big decision, and we want to make sure your student has everything they need to make a confident and informed choice.

 

Step 1: Discover Your Future at McKendree

McKendree offers a one-of-a-kind academic experience, built on small class sizes, hands-on learning, and a supportive community. Here, students engage with expert faculty who serve as mentors, advisors, and research collaborators.

 

Academic Excellence

Your student can showcase their talents and hard work at our annual Academic Excellence Celebration, where students present their research, creative projects, and scholarly achievements.

 

Personalized Learning

McKendree faculty are committed to your student's success—guiding, mentoring, and inspiring them throughout their journey.

 

Active Learning, Real-World Impact

Our classrooms go beyond lectures. Your student will engage in discussions, group projects, simulations, service learning, and hands-on experiences that prepare them for success beyond graduation.

 

Unlimited Possibilities

With undergraduate degree programs and 100% of courses taught by faculty—not graduate assistants—your student will build meaningful connections that help them find your passion and purpose.

 

Step 2: Connect With Us

Visiting campus is one of the best ways for your student to picture yourself at McKendree. We offer a variety of visit options, including Preview Days, personalized campus tours, and virtual sessions.

Each student is assigned a dedicated admission counselor to help guide them (and you!) through the process—from admission and financial aid to selecting the right program.

 Schedule a Visit | Meet Your Counselor

 

Step 3: Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

A McKendree education is a valuable investment in your future. We’re committed to keeping it affordable, and U.S. News & World Report ranks McKendree among the top 5 Midwest regional universities for lowest student debt.

• • • Encourage your student to submit the FAFSA early (McKendree's code is 001722)
      
      
    • Explore scholarship opportunities
      
      
    • Review your student's financial aid package carefully once received

Need help? Your student's admission counselor is here to assist in understanding your student's award package.

 

Step 4: Activating your student's McKendree account

Get connected! Your student can activate their MyMcK account using the Student ID provided in their admission packet. This portal provides access to important resources like registration, financial aid updates, and housing.

Activate Account | Set Up a Proxy User for Parent Access

 

Step 5: Securing Your Student's Spot

Make it official—encourage your student to submit their Enrollment Confirmation Form and deposit to secure their place at McKendree!

Deposit Amounts

• • • • $200 for commuter students
      • $400 for residential students

Deposits are non-refundable and can be paid securely online. The deadline to submit the enrollment deposit is May 1.

Submit Deposit

 

Step 6: Finalizing Enrollment

1. 1. 1. Register for Courses through First-Year Introduction (FYI), designed to help your student transition smoothly to McKendree.
         
         
2. Apply for Housing or Submit a Housing Waiver. Housing is assigned based on the order of application, so apply early! Housing assignments will be emailed to your McKendree email.

 

We're Here to Help

 

Starting college is a big step, but you and your student are not alone. Our team is ready to help you and your student navigate the process and answer any questions along the way.

 

Office of Admission

701 College Road Lebanon, Illinois 62254

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Located in the Marion K. Piper Academic Center (PAC) on the 2nd Floor

(800) BEARCAT or (618) 537-6831 (phone)

(618) 537-6496 (fax)

inquiry@mckendree.edu