How many colleges are in Illinois?

Illinois features nearly 100 four-year colleges. Students can also start their education at one of 48 community colleges. Many of these schools offer fully online programs with the same excellent student support services that on-campus learners receive.

Are there any HBCUs in Illinois?

Although Illinois does not have HBCUs, the state features many minority-majority colleges, including Chicago State University (CSU). CSU prides itself on its long history of helping recent immigrants, Black people, and people from disadvantaged economic backgrounds gain a college education. Also, keep in mind that you do not need to attend an HBCU to qualify for UNCF scholarships or other financial aid meant for Black students.

Is community college free in Illinois?

Unlike other states, Illinois does not offer free community college for residents. However, Illinois community colleges charge significantly less than public and private four-year schools. Earning an associate degree at a community college and then applying to a bachelor's-completion program may save you thousands of dollars on your college education.

Which states have tuition reciprocity with Illinois?

Illinois is not a member of the Midwest Student Exchange Program, meaning no states have tuition reciprocity with Illinois. However, some online colleges in Illinois waive out-of-state tuition for fully online degree-seekers. Contact colleges' financial aid offices for more information.

How do I qualify for in-state tuition in Illinois?

You must live in Illinois for 12 months to qualify for in-state tuition. You may qualify sooner if at least one parent who claims you as a dependent for tax purposes lives in Illinois. You maintain resident status even if one or both parents leave Illinois during your college education.

Discover The Best Online Colleges In Illinois

Illinois visitors and residents need not look far to find the state's impact on American agriculture and industry. Beyond the farms and factories, Illinois' colleges and universities have made a significant contribution to the United States' development. In 1942, researchers at the University of Chicago performed the world's first controlled nuclear chain reaction.

Today, online colleges in Illinois offer students worldwide access to diplomas, certificates, and degrees. Explore programs that can prepare you for a career in the Prairie State and beyond.

Illinois at a Glance

There are 91 nonprofit four-year institutions in Illinois.
Around 39% of adults in the state hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
In fall 2023, nearly 50% of students at Illinois institutions were enrolled in online courses.
In fall 2023, there were over 250,000 students aged 25 and over enrolled at Illinois colleges.

10 Best Online Colleges in Illinois

Who Accredits Online Colleges in Illinois?

Before choosing an online college or university in Illinois, you should ensure the institution holds accreditation by a recognized agency. The Higher Learning Commission is the primary accreditor of postsecondary schools in the state.

Institutional accreditation (formerly called national or regional accreditation) demonstrates that the school meets specific academic and professional standards, ensuring graduate schools and employers recognize your degree.

How Much Does College Cost in Illinois?

Students attending an undergraduate private school or graduate school in Illinois pay about the same for their education as students in other states. However, undergraduate public school students in Illinois spend significantly more on their education than the national average. However, keep in mind that this figure includes out-of-state students who pay a higher per-credit tuition rate than Illinois residents.

You may qualify for federal financial aid if you attend an accredited online college in Illinois. Residents can visit the Illinois Student Assistance Commission website to learn more about the FAFSA and explore financial aid topics. As of September 2025, the state government sponsors scholarships for Illinois residents preparing for a career in:

State-sponsored scholarships, such as the Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois, require recipients to agree to a service commitment upon graduation. As a result, you should compare requirements closely before applying.

Career Opportunities in Illinois

$50,000
Median annual wage in IL (May 2024)

+2.7%
Projected job growth in IL (2022-2032)

4.4%
Unemployment rate in IL (August 2025)

Source: BLS OEWS, Projections Central, BLS LAUS

The median annual salary, overall projected job growth, and unemployment rate in Illinois align with the national average. If you want to earn more in your first job after graduation or prepare for an in-demand career, research the state's fastest-growing industries, which include:

Advanced manufacturing
Agricultural technology
Clean energy
Information technology
Life sciences research

College academic and career advisors can help you explore positions within these industries, pick the right major, and make yourself an appealing job applicant. Keeping track of the job market throughout your education can also help you choose your major and electives wisely.

Popular Cities for Recent Grads

Chicago

Major employers headquartered in Chicago include CNA, Caterpillar, and McDonald's.
The city features convenient train access for workers living outside the city limits.
Midway International Airport connects Chicago to business hubs in Europe and Asia.

Naperville

Top employers include school districts, natural resource extraction firms, telecommunications companies, and financial services providers.
Over 70% of residents hold at least a bachelor's degree, according to the Naperville Development Partnership.

Aurora

Aurora's downtown completed a significant economic redevelopment plan in 2017.
The three largest employment sectors include manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.
The city's housing costs fall below the national average.