Four-bill package streamlines admissions, expands dual credit, and improves FAFSA support
Illinois high school students will soon face fewer barriers to higher education, thanks to a slate of bills signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker. Joined by education officials, community college leaders, and state lawmakers at a recent signing ceremony, Pritzker enacted four new laws that target the college admissions pipeline: direct admissions, expanded dual credit opportunities, and enhanced Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) support.
“In order to ensure that every student of every background in every corner of our state gets the education they deserve, we need to leave no stone unturned and no barrier unbroken,” Pritzker said in a press release. “These bills streamline the application process for college-bound seniors in Illinois, enhance support for applicants, and open up new horizons for prospective students.”
The most high-profile legislation, HB 3522, launches the Public University Direct Admission Program. The new system will automatically offer admission to Illinois public universities and community colleges for qualifying high school juniors, based on GPA and other academic indicators. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) will coordinate the program, notifying students of their eligibility in one streamlined message.
“This direct admissions program is putting students first,” Rep. Katie Stuart (D-Edwardsville), the bill’s House sponsor, said in the release. “We are easing the stressful college application process for our students and encouraging them to continue their education at one of the many great public universities in Illinois.”
The package also focuses on financial access through two FAFSA-related bills. HB 3096 requires each high school to appoint a designated person to guide students through the federal aid application process. HB 3097 mandates schools offer time during the school day for students to complete or receive help with the FAFSA, beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year.
ISAC Executive Director Eric Zarnikow said the changes will “make the path smoother and more affordable for Illinois students.”
HB 2967 strengthens the state’s Dual Credit Equality Act by ensuring partnerships between high schools and community colleges meet statewide academic standards. The law also clarifies faculty credentialing requirements and restricts out-of-state partnerships that don’t align with Illinois standards.
“Dual credit classes give high school students an important head start on their college careers,” Rep. Terra Costa Howard (D-Lombard) said. “Beyond helping students and their families save money, they offer a life-changing confidence boost.”
In his February State of the State address, Pritzker emphasized the importance of retaining students in-state and expanding community college options. He also proposed allowing Illinois community colleges to offer bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields such as nursing and advanced manufacturing.
Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton praised the new laws as “a major step toward ensuring every Illinoisan—no matter their income or ZIP code—has a real opportunity to access an affordable, high-quality education.”
