Illinois has poured more than $2 billion in additional funding into higher education since 2009, yet enrollment has fallen by over 106,000 students, according to the Illinois Policy Institute.
Spending hit $4.46 billion in 2024 — nearly 9% of the state budget — with per-student costs topping the nation at $25,529. But much of the money goes to pensions and administrative costs, not classrooms. Tuition and fees at Illinois’ public universities have climbed 66% since 2009, outpacing inflation and ranking sixth-highest in the nation.
Analysts say the outdated funding formula punishes growing schools, drives tuition higher, and pushes students to cheaper colleges out of state.
