IL SB3070

Students entering 9th grade in 2028-2029 and after may fulfill the 2-year foreign language graduation requirement by completing either foreign language courses or at least 2 years of career-focused coursework qualifying for a College and Career Pathway Endorsement under the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act.

Illinois public universities would be prohibited from requiring foreign language coursework as an admission condition for Illinois public high school graduates unless the university also accepts a College and Career Pathway Endorsement as an alternative.

The bill amends the School Code and governance Acts for multiple Illinois public universities, including the University of Illinois, to implement these changes.

American Sign Language continues to qualify as a foreign language option for students choosing the traditional language pathway.

The legislation takes effect immediately upon becoming law.