ILLINOIS — High school students across Illinois will soon have a clearer path to college, thanks to a new law signed by Governor JB Pritzker that establishes a Direct Admissions Program to most in-state public universities and community colleges.
New Direct Admissions Program Opens in 2027
Starting in the 2027–2028 academic year, eligible students will be automatically admitted to participating Illinois colleges based solely on their grade point average. The new law — HB 3522 — is designed to reduce barriers to higher education and streamline the application process.
Instead of students applying individually to each school, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission will evaluate their academic data and notify them of which schools have accepted them.
“This bill leaves no stone unturned and no barrier unbroken,” said Gov. Pritzker in a statement. “It opens up new horizons for prospective students and simplifies the road to higher education.”
Nine Universities Already Signed On
So far, 9 out of the state’s 11 public universities have agreed to participate in the new direct admission pathway:
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Chicago State University
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Eastern Illinois University
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Governors State University
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Illinois State University
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Northeastern Illinois University
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Northern Illinois University
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Southern Illinois University
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University of Illinois at Springfield
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Western Illinois University
High school juniors will be able to opt into the program and receive offers of admission as early as their senior year.
Additional Laws Aim to Boost College Preparedness
Gov. Pritzker also signed several complementary education bills into law to support the new admissions model.
Dual Credit Standards Updated
Under HB 2967, Illinois high schools offering dual credit (college-level courses taken while in high school) must now ensure those classes meet the quality standards set by the Illinois Community College Board. This ensures that credits earned will count toward a college degree.
More Help With FAFSA Application Process
Two other laws address common obstacles students face when applying for financial aid:
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HB 3096 requires all Illinois high schools to designate a staff member responsible for helping students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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HB 3097 mandates that high schools must allow time during the school day for students to work on their FAFSA applications.
These efforts aim to increase college enrollment and access to financial aid, particularly for first-generation and low-income students.
Have you or your student navigated the college admissions process in Illinois? Do you think this new law will make a real difference? Share your experience in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
