Admissions

IMSA Fosters Problem Solvers and Discoverers.

Our mission is to ignite and nurture creative, ethical, scientific minds that advance the human condition. At IMSA, you will be a part of a diverse community that promotes curiosity and exploration. Your time here will go beyond great college prospects and good jobs. Through unique and immersive learning experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to make a better world for everyone.

Established by the State of Illinois to develop talent and leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is internationally recognized for inspiring and nurturing students who use their exceptional abilities to improve people’s lives. IMSA’s academically advanced residential program enables students in grades 10-12 to reach extraordinary levels of achievement.

#1 of 674
Best College Prep Public High School in Illinois
#3 of 18,013
Best College Prep Public High Schools in America
#1 of 692
Best Public High School Teachers in Illinois

Here at IMSA, you will have the chance to find your passion both inside and outside of the classroom to help you find a greater sense of vision and reach your true potential. IMSA’s nationally ranked faculty and unique, hands-on approach to learning allows you to take your education into your own hands. Advanced course offerings allow you to challenge yourself while also pursuing your fields of interest. Explore our academic programs and course catalog.

Develop Your Passion.

At IMSA, you can spend one day a week exploring your passions outside the classroom. This day, commonly referred to as an Inquiry Day (I-Day), will be spent developing your interests through research or internships.

Live and Grow.

Located in suburban Aurora, IMSA’s campus consists of 7 residence halls spread across 97 acres. You will be part of a community of 652 diverse students who are passionate about learning. When you live alongside others, you create life-long friendships, encounter new ideas, and learn to live independently. You will also have the opportunity to explore over 75 clubs, organizations, and IHSA sponsored co-curriculars and athletic programs

24 Hour

Security Officers

Live-On

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Evening check and

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Vistation and

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At IMSA, you will be immersed in a safe, nurturing environment. Professional Resident Counselors (RCs) live in each hall and will help you navigate your home away from home through the Residential Life Curriculum. Through this curriculum, you’ll build leadership skills and jump-start your social life while developing independence and responsibility in and out of the classroom. The residence halls are where all of the elements of IMSA fuse into one dynamic living and learning experience.

Celebrate Each Other’s Differences.

IMSA fosters and nurtures a safe, affirming and responsive environment where students feel they have value, the opportunity to contribute their best work, and the ability to realize their full potential.  We value all cultures, celebrate each other’s differences, and believe that diverse perspectives enrich understanding.  

You will connect with students from all backgrounds. You will grow. You will make a difference.

Change Your Life’s Trajectory.

IMSA will challenge you with a curriculum designed to foster a love of lifelong learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking. You’ll meet the criteria for admission to the nation’s most selective colleges and universities and pursue a meaningful, worthwhile career path. We’ll be part of recognizing your accomplishments as we do for so many other proud IMSA Alumni who have already walked our halls – those who genuinely understand the power of IMSA to change the trajectory of your life.

Meet some of our alumni.

Are you ready to apply?

Applications for Fall 2024 are due March 1st!
Date9th Grade ApplicantsAdditional Considerations for 8th Grade Applicants
Before ApplyingCheck that you meet all Eligibility Requirements and review upcoming dates for the SAT8th grade applicants must also be enrolled in at least Algebra 1 and a high school level science course at the time of application. If their school does not offer these courses, they will need to find supplementary courses through an accredited institution to meet this requirement.
OctoberStart an Online Application and register for the SAT or ACT (SAT registration is completed through CollegeBoard.org and ACT through ACT.org)
DecemberSend Teacher Evaluations and Counselor Forms to current teachers and counselors (or school administrator who oversees transcript requests). Evaluations and Counselor Forms are sent through the SchoolRec. The Counselor Form includes a space for the counselor to upload transcripts.
JanuaryFinish writing your essays and update the Activities and Awards Section.
Remind Teachers and Counselors to submit forms and evaluations.
8th Grade Applicants should also be completing their first semester of supplementary high school courses (if needed) and requesting their transcript be sent to admissions@imsa.edu
March 1stSubmit your Application. Applications MUST be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered for admission.
May 1stDecisions are emailed to students and parent/guardians' emails listed on the application. 8th graders who were not accepted during this application cycle can meet with admissions counselors to get feedback for the application process in 9th grade.