• Big Blue Pledge

  • The Big Blue Pledge

  • Illinois Free Tuition Program

    The Big Blue Pledge will cover 100% of students' undergraduate tuition by combining Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ grants and scholarships with available state and federal grants, in their first year at Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ.

  • 100% FreeTuition

    for qualifying Illinois residents.

    This program represents an investment in Illinois students who may lack the financial options necessary to pursue a college education or feel a private education is out of reach. 

    Big Blue Students

  • How Do You Qualify?

    To qualify for the Big Blue Pledge, students must be newly enrolling beginning in the 2024-25 academic year, and:

    • submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
    • be an Illinois resident (as determined by the FAFSA);
    • be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant; and 
    • be enrolled full-time (minimum of 12 credit hours per semester) as a traditional undergraduate student at Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ. 

    The Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ provided scholarship and grants can be renewed in the same amount for up to four consecutive years for students who continue to meet the eligibility criteria and make satisfactory academic progress toward their degree. Students will be subject to the yearly $1,000 increase in tuition thereafter. Students are responsible for the costs of housing, food and fees.