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Augustana College Illinois

4.5
·64 reviews·Rock Island, United States

A liberal arts college in Illinois known for its engaging academics, vibrant campus life, and active student community.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall Semesters

Experience campus life vibrant

CrowdMedium
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Augustana College - Image 1

Augustana College Illinois

Best Time

Spring & Fall Semesters

Experience campus life vibrant

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A liberal arts college in Illinois known for its engaging academics, vibrant campus life, and active student community. Instagram

4.5
(64 reviews)

"The staff care about the students and truly want them to meet their full potential. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Financial Aid Inquiry

Always ask the financial aid office for more aid each year; increases are common. :moneybag:

🏠 Freshman Housing Check

Be prepared for potentially basic freshman dorms; inquire about A/C availability. :housewithgarden:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Augustana College Campus

Augustana College Campus

Rock Island, Illinois

Explore a vibrant campus with diverse academic and extracurricular opportunities. Discover student life and athletic programs.

Instagram
Geology Museum

Geology Museum

Hanson Hall of Sciences

Discover fascinating geological exhibits, a hidden gem on campus that offers a glimpse into Earth's history.

Instagram
Student-Athlete Experience

Student-Athlete Experience

Various Athletic Facilities

Experience the dedication of student-athletes balancing academics and sports, like the women's tennis team.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Admissions & Aid

Augustana College offers appealing financial aid packages, but be aware of potential tuition increases. Proactively engage with the financial aid office annually to inquire about additional support. International students may find it helpful to compare offers with other institutions, as highlighted by a student comparing Augustana to Illinois Wesleyan. Reddit

Campus Life & Housing

While Augustana offers a vibrant campus life with various activities and clubs, housing can be a mixed bag. Freshman dorms like Andreen and Seminary Hall may lack adequate air conditioning. Students are generally required to live on campus for three years, which can impact off-campus living options. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall Semesters
Why
Experience campus life vibrant
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Camp Sessions
Why
Engage in specialized programs
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¡Felicidades a Aileen por su admisión a Augustana College! 🤩💙💛 @augustana_illinois @augustanabound . . . #CollegeBound #Classof2029 #StudyAbroad #EstudiaenelExterior #EstudiaenUSA #EstudiaenelExtranjero #CommonApp #CollegeAdmissions #CollegePrep #TheCollegeInstitute #AdmisionesUniversitarias #AsesoriaUniversitaria #BecasUSA #BecasEEUU #AugustanaCollege #Augustana2029
thecollegeinstitute
0 likes • 2K views

💰 Financial Aid Inquiry

Always ask the financial aid office for more aid each year; increases are common. Reddit :moneybag:

🏠 Freshman Housing Check

Be prepared for potentially basic freshman dorms; inquire about A/C availability. Reddit :housewithgarden:

Our Illinois location is moving!! Join the fun at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois June 15 – 21. Ohio is July 6 – 12 and is still at Heidelberg University in Tiffin. It’s going to be an exciting summer. Don’t miss it!! Learn more at www.showchoircamps.com ✨✨
showchoircampsofamerica
770 likes • 23.3K views
🚍 Augustana College - Illinois Students: Big News! 🚍 Starting this Friday, September 19, Metro IL Quad Cities 'Route 53 Late Night Loop' will now include a stop in Downtown Moline! Augustana students ride FREE with a valid student ID, making it safe and convenient to travel between campus and downtown and enjoy everything Moline has to offer. A huge thank you to MetroLINK and Augustana College ...
cityofmoline
23 likes • 535 views

📚 Professor Reviews

Utilize RateMyProfessor.com to find the best instructors for your courses. Reddit :books:

🚌 Moline Transit Access

Augustana students ride Metro IL Quad Cities Route 53 FREE with ID to Downtown Moline. Instagram :bus:

EPIC MOTORS! 1998 Montgomery KONE Hydraulic Elevators At Augustana College Hanson Hall of Sciences In Rock Island, Illinois I know a certain someone who would like these… @jowevator3219 (08/30/2025) #MontgomeryElevatorCompany #konecorporation #1998 #Original
quadcityelevators_official
3 likes • 153 views

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Financial Aid Inquiry

Always ask the financial aid office for more aid each year; increases are common. Reddit :moneybag:

🏠 Freshman Housing Check

Be prepared for potentially basic freshman dorms; inquire about A/C availability. Reddit :housewithgarden:

📚 Professor Reviews

Utilize RateMyProfessor.com to find the best instructors for your courses. Reddit :books:

🚌 Moline Transit Access

Augustana students ride Metro IL Quad Cities Route 53 FREE with ID to Downtown Moline. Instagram :bus:

🏋️‍♀️ Student-Athlete Life

Experience the demanding yet rewarding life of a student-athlete balancing academics and sports. Instagram :trophy:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(64 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Augustana College offers a solid liberal arts education with engaging small class sizes and a vibrant campus life. However, prospective students should be mindful of potential tuition increases and basic freshman housing conditions. While the academic experience is generally positive, cafeteria food and Wi-Fi can be areas for improvement. Reddit

"I am a graduate of the Class of 2025. Here’s my experience and observations over the last four years as a student. (Posting this on a burner email)

Financials - As an incoming student I received an appealing financial aid package from Augustana. This enticed me to attend the school over some competitors. Over my four years, tuition and room and board was increased three times (3.5% 2022-2023, 3.85% 2023-2024, 3.38% 2024-2025). I felt this was a bait-and-switch as the scholarships I received in later years did not keep pace with my original financial aid package. I was paying more out of pocket my senior year compared to my freshman year. In addition, any private student loans taken out are a fixed 6.5% rate. I encourage anyone that does attend Augustana to reach out to the financial aid office each year when you receive your new financial aid package and ask for more aid (I was given more aid when I asked).

Education - My overall education experience was good. I learned about many different topics I had not considered before I attended college. The professors were hit-or-miss in some classes so utilizing ratemyprofessor.com was a life saver. Over my four years, there was some professor turnover that I had experienced. It seemed like whenever a new professor was hired they were always an international. The school cannot pay up for good talent. I heard of professors that were not hired because they were offered a salary 2x of what Augustana could offer. Expect foreign professors with a hardy accent teaching some of your classes. I also did enjoy the small class sizes because I felt like I was forced to engage more and it was easier to ask questions.

Housing - Housing is hit-or-miss in your lower-class years. If you are unfortunate enough to live in Andreen or Seminary Hall during your freshman year, I pray for you. You can expect to be miserable the whole year and especially when it is hot outside. There is little to no A/C in those rooms. All the other housing is alright. You are forced to live on-campus for three years so you miss out on better deals of living off-campus with roommates.

Campus Life - There is always some activity happening on campus throughout the school year. I participated in a few clubs which I obtained leadership roles so I think there is something for everyone. My opinion about the cafeteria food is it is not good. Everything is soaked in oil, pre-packaged, and fried. The burgers look nothing like the one shown in the advertisement video on the Augustana Dining website. They’re all thin and frozen. The best food is the dessert.

This review was just my opinion, hopefully it can help you make a more informed decision about the school you may attend. I did receive a job offer before my Senior year began so that is a testament to an Augustana education, though it does depend on your major and career choice."

Hamzatt kiki flipy

"Definitely applying here! Stayed for the IL SCA summer camp and can confidently say this building has 9/10. -1 star for wifi though. Gerber is probably the one with the worst one. Swanson is OK, but not ideal"

Ana Martinez

"Absolutely awful school the sportsmanship those men’s volleyball boys has is disgusting they were saying vulgar and disrespectful things I get playful banter in the game but they took it too far they’re an embarrassment to sports"

Kleyten Sweet

What People Like

Small class sizes
Engaging campus life
Good education quality

What People Dislike

Tuition increases
Basic freshman housing
Cafeteria food quality

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Augustana students can utilize the Metro IL Quad Cities 'Route 53 Late Night Loop' for free travel between campus and Downtown Moline with a valid student ID. Instagram

The nearest major airport is the Quad City International Airport (MLI), located about 15-20 minutes from campus. Rental cars are available, or ride-sharing services can be used. TikTok

Yes, Augustana College is served by local public transportation, including the Metro IL Quad Cities bus system, which connects to surrounding areas. Instagram

You can drive approximately 2.5-3 hours from Chicago. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train to the Quad Cities station and then arrange for local transport to campus. Reddit

While specific shuttle details can vary, the 'Route 53 Late Night Loop' offers a convenient connection for students to Downtown Moline. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Applications are typically submitted through the Common App or the Augustana College admissions portal. Deadlines and requirements can be found on their official website. TikTok

Admission requirements generally include high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, though often optional), letters of recommendation, and essays. Specific requirements may vary by program. TikTok

Yes, Augustana College offers campus visits, including tours led by current students, allowing prospective students to explore the campus and facilities. Instagram

Augustana College offers financial aid packages, but tuition and fees can increase annually. It's recommended to negotiate with the financial aid office for better packages. Reddit

While general campus access is free, specific ticketed events like athletic competitions or performing arts shows may occur. Check the college's event calendar for details.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Housing varies, with some freshman dorms like Andreen and Seminary Hall having limited air conditioning. Other housing options are generally considered adequate. Reddit

Reviews suggest the cafeteria food is not exceptional, often described as oily, pre-packaged, and fried, with burgers differing from advertised images. Desserts are a highlight. Reddit

Yes, there are always activities happening on campus, and students can participate in various clubs, with opportunities for leadership roles. Reddit

Wi-Fi can be inconsistent, with some areas like Gerber Hall reportedly having weaker signals compared to others like Swanson Hall. Reddit

Augustana College offers various academic support services, and small class sizes encourage student engagement and easier access to professors for questions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main quad, historic buildings like Hanson Hall of Sciences, and scenic spots around campus offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

Yes, the 1998 Montgomery KONE Hydraulic Elevators in Hanson Hall of Sciences have been documented and shared online. Instagram

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. For commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to check with the college's communications department.

Students often share photos of campus life, athletic events, and academic achievements on social media platforms. Instagram+1

Official college social media, student posts, and local community pages often feature high-quality images of the campus and its events. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families considering Augustana College, the financial aid process is a key point. While initial packages are attractive, be prepared for potential tuition hikes and proactively negotiate with the financial aid office annually. Reddit The campus offers a range of activities, but housing for freshmen might be basic, so inquire about amenities like air conditioning. Reddit

Key Considerations:
* Financial Aid Negotiation: Don't hesitate to ask for more aid each year. Reddit
* Housing Amenities: Check on A/C in freshman dorms. Reddit
* Campus Engagement: Plenty of clubs and activities for students to join. Reddit

🌍 International Students

International students admitted to Augustana College should carefully compare their offers with other institutions, as highlighted by a student choosing between Augustana and Illinois Wesleyan for Chemistry. Reddit While Augustana provides a good education and opportunities, understanding the nuances of professor accents and potential professor turnover is important. Reddit The college's location in the Quad Cities also offers access to local transit, like the Route 53 bus, which can be beneficial for getting around. Instagram

Tips for International Students:
* Compare Offers: Weigh Augustana against other universities. Reddit
* Academic Support: Utilize resources and be open to diverse teaching styles. Reddit
* Local Transit: Familiarize yourself with public transportation options. Instagram

🎓 Prospective Students

Prospective students can get a feel for Augustana College through campus visits and by exploring student testimonials. Instagram The college offers a solid liberal arts education with small class sizes that encourage interaction. Reddit However, it's wise to research professors using RateMyProfessor.com and to be aware of the housing situation for freshmen. Reddit The financial aid process requires active engagement to maximize potential support. Reddit

What to Expect:
* Engaging Classes: Small class sizes foster participation. Reddit
* Campus Exploration: Visit to get a feel for the environment. Instagram
* Financial Planning: Proactive communication with the financial aid office is key. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Academic Experience at Augustana

Augustana College generally provides a good educational experience, with professors often being international hires. While this can lead to accents, the small class sizes are a significant advantage, fostering greater student engagement and making it easier to ask questions. Reddit The curriculum exposes students to a wide range of topics, encouraging exploration beyond their initial interests. However, some students have noted professor turnover and that the college may not always be able to compete with higher salaries offered elsewhere for top talent. Reddit

Key Takeaway: Expect a strong liberal arts foundation with opportunities for in-depth learning due to small class sizes. Be prepared for potential language nuances with some instructors and utilize resources like RateMyProfessor.com to navigate course selections. Reddit

Financial Considerations for Students

Augustana College is known for offering appealing initial financial aid packages, which can be a significant draw for prospective students. Reddit However, it's crucial to be aware that tuition, room, and board can increase annually, and scholarship amounts may not always keep pace, leading to a higher out-of-pocket cost in later years. Reddit This has led some to feel it's a 'bait-and-switch' scenario. Private student loans often come with a fixed interest rate, such as the 6.5% mentioned. Reddit

Actionable Advice: Prospective and current students are strongly encouraged to proactively contact the financial aid office each year to discuss their package and inquire about additional aid. Reddit This proactive approach has proven effective for some in securing more financial support. Reddit

Campus Life and Student Activities

Augustana College fosters a lively campus environment with a consistent stream of activities and events throughout the academic year. Students have ample opportunities to join various clubs and organizations, with many finding leadership roles within these groups, suggesting a diverse range of interests are catered to. Reddit This active social calendar aims to provide something for everyone, contributing to a well-rounded college experience. Reddit

However, the dining experience has received mixed reviews. The cafeteria food is often described as not being of high quality, with common complaints about excessive oil, pre-packaged items, and fried foods. Reddit The burgers, in particular, are noted to be thin and frozen, not matching promotional images. Despite these criticisms, the dessert options are frequently highlighted as a positive aspect of the dining hall. Reddit

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