New Illinois laws could make college more accessible, affordable

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed four bills into law Monday that could break down barriers for even more people to achieve higher education goals. Pritzker and bill sponsors stressed education is the government's best return on investment.

Pritzker told lawmakers in February that improving the college admissions process would be a top priority for the year. Now, the Democrat is delivering on the promise by signing multiple bipartisan plans into law.

"Higher education should be about growth and the opportunity to build a better life," Pritzker said. "It should not be about piling on debt and mountains of paperwork."

Illinois public universities and community colleges will offer direct admission for students based on their GPA starting with the 2027-2028 school year. Sen. Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) said the university direct admission program will streamline the college application process and reduce fees for prospective students.

"This legislation will undoubtedly unlock the untapped potential of Illinois students at Illinois public universities, allowing them a lane to remain in Illinois," Belt said.

A separate plan will require high schools to work with local community colleges to ensure all dual credit options meet the state's standards. The law also allows credentialed high school instructors to teach dual credit courses for students who may not have a college campus nearby.

"Dual credit courses are some of the most cost effective options for students to get a jump start on their college degree," said Sen. Cristina Castro (D-Elgin). "Finishing high school knowing you're already earning college credit can open the doors to a meaningful experience in higher education and beyond."

Another law will require high schools to designate at least one staff member as a point of contact for any questions students having about filling out the free application for federal student aid.

Pritzker also signed a bill requiring FAFSA assistance options during school hours.

"As a father of a college student, I just currently went through this fun exercise with my daughter filling out a FAFSA form," said Sen. Javier Cervantes (D-Chicago). "I'm being a little sarcastic by calling it fun because we had deadlines and had to make sure we had our documentation together. It wasn't easy."

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission said these laws will make the path to college smoother and more affordable for students across the state. ISAC will also play a critical role in implementing several of the new laws.