Budget Friendly Colleges in Illinois

I'm from Illinois and was hoping to stay in-state for college. Does anyone know which are some of the least expensive colleges over here?

Certainly! There are several affordable in-state options in Illinois that you might consider. Here are a few:

1. City Colleges of Chicago (CCC): This is a system of seven community colleges in Chicago. They're very budget-friendly and provide a good foundation for students looking to pursue a bachelor's degree after completing a two-year program.

2. Chicago State University: Located in Chicago, this university is reputed for being one of Illinois' more affordable four-year institutions with numerous degree programs to choose from.

3. Governor's State University: This university, located in University Park, offers a range of affordable bachelor's degree programs, particularly for transfer students.

4. Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU): This university, located in Chicago, is another budget-friendly option for prospective university students interested in a four-year degree.

5. Southern Illinois University (SIU): Both SIU campuses (Carbondale and Edwardsville) offer wide-ranging programs and are generally more affordable than many other Illinois universities.

Another option could be to start at a community college, where tuition costs are significantly lower, and then transfer to a four-year university. Many Illinois community colleges have articulated transfer agreements with four-year colleges and universities, which means certain credits from the community college can directly transfer to the four-year university.

Each of these colleges offers a different experience, and I'd suggest looking into each one to see which might align best with your academic interests and career goals. Also, don't forget to consider the possibility of financial aid and scholarships, which could significantly reduce the cost of your education. The net price calculator available on each school's website can give you a more accurate estimate of what you would pay after financial aid.