summary
Introduced
02/07/2025
02/07/2025
In Committee
03/21/2025
03/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
Potential new amendment
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. Provides that the Illinois Student Assistance Commission shall establish the Adult Learner Flexible Education Grant Program to facilitate access to online postsecondary education provided by a qualified institution of higher learning, including a not-for-profit postsecondary institution that offers classes exclusively online and meets other criteria, for adults over the age of 25 pursuing careers in fields facing workforce shortages, as determined by the Commission. Provides that, beginning with the 2025-2026 academic year, subject to appropriation, the Commission shall receive and consider applications for grant assistance. Provides that an applicant is eligible for a grant if the Commission finds that the applicant meets specified criteria. Provides that all grants are applicable only to tuition and mandatory fees. Provides that the Commission shall determine the grant amount for each student, which amount must not exceed $5,000. Sets forth provisions concerning conditions on the grant amount, grant applications, the distribution of grant funds, and rulemaking. Effective July 1, 2025.
AI Summary
This bill establishes the Adult Learner Flexible Education Grant Program through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission to support adults over 25 pursuing online postsecondary education in workforce shortage fields. The program will provide grants up to $5,000 per student, beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year, to help cover tuition and mandatory fees at specific qualified institutions. To be eligible, applicants must be Illinois residents over 25, pursuing a fully online degree or certificate in a high-need workforce field, be a permanent U.S. resident, enrolled at a qualifying online not-for-profit institution, have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and not already hold a baccalaureate degree. The bill defines a "qualified institution" with specific criteria, including being a not-for-profit online school with at least 100,000 enrolled students, a low student loan default rate, and participation in federal student aid programs. The Commission will prioritize grant distribution based on financial need, first-generation status, minority background, and rural residence, with up to 3% of program funds allowed for administrative costs. The total grant amount cannot exceed the institution's cost of attendance when combined with other financial assistance.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (5)
Michael Crawford (D)*,
Marcus Evans (D),
Barbara Hernandez (D),
Norma Hernandez (D),
Nick Smith (D),
Last Action
Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Norma Hernandez (on 03/21/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3551&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104 |
| House Amendment 001 | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/104/HB/10400HB3551ham001.htm |
| BillText | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/104/HB/10400HB3551.htm |
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