SB0461 Summary

• Extends in-state tuition eligibility to undocumented immigrants and certain non-citizens at all Illinois public universities beginning July 1, 2026, if they meet residency and education requirements.

• Requires individuals to have attended high school in Illinois for at least 2 years and graduated from an Illinois high school, or alternatively attended Illinois high schools and community colleges for a cumulative 3 years with an associate degree or 60 transferable credit hours.

• Excludes individuals with non-immigrant visa status that precludes intent to permanently reside in the United States under federal immigration law.

• Requires affected individuals to affirm they will apply for permanent residency at the earliest opportunity if eligible and not already a citizen or lawful permanent resident.

• Applies identical in-state tuition provisions to University of Illinois, Southern Illinois University, Chicago State University, Eastern Illinois University, Governors State University, Illinois State University, Northeastern Illinois University, Northern Illinois University, and Western Illinois University.