SPRINGFIELD – Graduating high school students will soon see more opportunities to attend Illinois’ public colleges and universities, thanks to a law led by State Senator Celina Villanueva that expands in-state tuition rates to any individual who attended an Illinois high school for three years.
“Expanding in-state tuition at public colleges and universities will offer an otherwise unreachable lifeline to so many students, especially those coming from vulnerable situations,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “This is about ensuring our higher education system prioritizes equity and opportunity for all.”
For the past several years, Illinois lawmakers have voiced concerns with college costs, specifically citing rising in-state tuition that has led to many students taking on more in education-related debt or seeking higher education across state lines. Villanueva recognizes that the continued rising cost of living disproportionately affects low-income families and students participating in Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals – groups that often have to temporarily relocate due to unforeseen circumstances.
Under previous state law, students attending Illinois’ public institutions of higher learning could not receive in-state tuition if they had established residency outside of the state prior to enrollment. Villanueva’s new law modifies in-state tuition requirements beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year, allowing students who attend an Illinois high school for at least three years to receive in-state tuition regardless of if the student had established residency outside Illinois prior to enrolling.
“Illinois can only be the best place to live if we’re giving all people the resources to plant roots and grow, and this law will ensure first-generation, low-income, DACA, minority, transgender and so many other students have those resources,” added Villanueva.
House Bill 5093 was signed into law Friday and takes immediate effect.
