Going to college is an expensive endeavor, but it doesn't have to be. A low-cost online college might just be the way to go.
With an online degree, you don't have to worry about moving or leaving your job. You can get your degree on your time.
Better yet, there are many free or low-cost options available in Illinois. Read on to find the school that's right for you.
List of Free and Low-Cost Colleges with Online Degree Programs
1. National Louis University
The National Louis University has kept tuition rates the same for 4 years running and offers scholarships for new and transfer students. If you have a low income, you can easily find a combination of federal aid and scholarships to cover your tuition.
With more than 70 career-focused degree, certificate, and endorsement programs, you'll have no problem finding what you want to study.
2. Eastern Illinois University (EIU)
Eastern Illinois University boasts more than 800 scholarship opportunities available for its students. EIU offers a variety of popular bachelor's and master's programs completely online, including business and public health.
Online courses from EIU are offered at the more affordable in-state tuition rate, regardless of where you live.
3. Rasmussen College - Illinois
Rasmussen College has more than 50 fully online degree programs at all levels of study so you can earn your degree on your own time.
In addition to federal financial aid and scholarships, Rasmussen also offers work-study opportunities for online students that can lower costs. Work-study programs allow you to get hands-on training related to your degree while you study. Instead of a paycheck, you get reduced tuition.
4. University of Illinois at Springfield (UIS)
Most of the University of Illinois at Springfield's online classes are taught by the same professors who teach the class in person.
First-year students with a GPA of 3.0 or better are automatically eligible for merit scholarships up to $8,000. When you combine those merit scholarships with federal grants, it's pretty easy to go to UIS for free.
Another point in UIS's favor: no ACT or SAT scores are required for first-year students, saving you a lot of time, effort, and money.
5. American InterContinental University (AIU)
While American InterContinental University is an online-only for-profit institution, it's located in Illinois.
The university also has a unique program that allows you to test out of material you already know so you can spend time learning new things. AIU offers bachelor's degrees in accounting, business administration, criminal justice, healthcare management, and information technology.
With federal aid, grants, and scholarships, you can greatly reduce the cost of your degree without needing to resort to loans.
How Can I Get an Online College Degree for Free in Illinois?
Getting your degree for free can take a lot of work, but it'll be well worth it in the end.
Start with federal options, then search for scholarships that can cover the rest of your needs.
Federal Student Aid
The federal government offers grants, loans, and work-study programs based on your financial need.
Most online programs don't take work-study, but a few do. Don't discount that as an option.
FAFSA
Finding out what federal aid is available to you starts with filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
Provide information about your household income and you'll get a SAR (Student Aid Report) that calculates your estimated family contribution.
Financial aid advisors at your school use that estimated family contribution to put together your aid package. You don't have to accept all the aid offered! In other words, if you're offered grants and loans, you can take the grants and decline the loans.
Pell Grant
If you're an undergraduate student seeking your first degree and have exceptional financial need, you might qualify for a Pell Grant.
The maximum Pell Grant award for the 2023-24 school year is $7,395, but you might get less depending on your estimated family contribution.
When you fill out the FAFSA, your school will use the information you provide to determine if you're eligible for a Pell Grant.
Scholarships in Illinois
If you're pursuing a degree in technology or STEM, check out the CEFS Economic Opportunity Corporation CSBG scholarship. High school seniors in Cooke County might apply for the Pullman Foundation scholarship, which awards $10,000 per year for 4 years.
Be sure to apply for Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, the state's largest grant program for low-income Illinois students. There are also state-specific scholarship funds for specific majors and programs.
Use online scholarship search services with caution. Many of them are scams that over-promise results or ask for money. Don't fall for it!
How Can I Cover Additional Online Degree Costs in Illinois?
Many online schools have installment plans available if you're not able to pay the full cost of tuition upfront. An installment plan can help you free up resources so that you can pay for your books and materials each semester. Ask your financial aid advisor for more information
Many employers also offer tuition reimbursement or similar programs. Ask someone in human resources if these programs are available.
If you live in Chicago and went to Chicago public schools, check out the Hope Chicago scholarship for help with additional costs.
FAQs Regarding Free Online College Degrees in Illinois
Does FAFSA Cover Online College in Illinois?
Absolutely! All online colleges in Illinois use the FAFSA to determine your financial need and eligibility for grants, scholarships, and loans.
Does Illinois have free tuition?
Illinois is not a state that offers free tuition to residents. But if you have a low income, there are many options available to reduce your costs.
With grants and scholarships, you could effectively get an online degree for free in Illinois, provided you continue to perform well.
Does Illinois help pay for online college?
The state has a grant program that provides funding for low-income Illinois students to go to college, either online or in-person.
Find a Free or Low-Cost Degree Online in Illinois Today
If you or someone you care about wants to pursue an online degree in the state of Illinois, our team is here to help.
Reach out to Best Accredited Colleges to get more information on the best free and low-cost online degree options in Illinois.
