Expanded pathways for in-state tuition eligibility for students thanks to Villivalam law

SPRINGFIELD- To increase access to higher education opportunities for students, including many of our immigrant residents, State Senator Ram Villivalam championed a law that expands eligibility for in-state tuition at Illinois colleges and universities.

"By expanding the eligibility pathways for in-state tuition, we are continuing to break down barriers to higher education," said Villivalam. "This law will help ensure these opportunities continue to be accessible to members of our community."

Under the new law, an individual can obtain in-state tuition if they are an Illinois resident, graduate from a high school in Illinois or attend a high school in Illinois for at least two years prior to enrollment.

Another path the law provides is for the individual to have attended either a high school in Illinois, a private or public community college in Illinois, or a combination of college and high school in Illinois for at least three years before enrolling at the university. An eligible student must have graduated from a high school and either earned an associate's degree or completed at least 60 credit hours of transferable coursework at a public community college.

Both pathways require the individual to file an application to become a permanent resident of the United States at the earliest opportunity, if they are not already a permanent resident or citizen.

"Illinois' immigrant community has consistently demonstrated that they will pursue the higher education opportunities available to them and contribute back to the State's economy," said Martin E. Klein, Legislative Staff Attorney for the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. "This law will open even more opportunities by making four-year degrees more affordable for Illinois' immigrant college students."

Senate Bill 461 takes effect July 1, 2026.