5 Cheapest Christian Colleges in Illinois
Key Takeaways
- A majority of the cheapest Christian colleges in Illinois offer state grants and scholarships to assist students financially.
- To ensure that you get a quality education at an affordable price, pay attention to financial aid, accreditation, and graduation rates at the college you are interested in attending.
- It is important that the affordable Christian college you choose not only aligns with your faith, but also with your learning and career goals and schedule preferences.
Cheapest Christian Colleges in Illinois in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.
Moody Bible Institute gains 1 spot to move into the number 1 position in our 2025 ranking of the cheapest Christian colleges in Illinois, while Eureka College jumps 3 spots to move into the number 2 position.
While Moody has not announced any specific program improvements for this school year, Eureka College is offering the Uniquely Eureka Promise, which provides qualifying new and transfer students with various benefits, including scholarships to reduce attendance costs. Additionally, the Uniquely Eureka Advantage guarantees four years of education or free tuition for qualifying students, ensuring students can complete their degrees without financial interruption.
Attending a Christian college is a great way to combine higher education with spiritual growth and community involvement. Illinois is home to many Christian colleges, and finding an affordable option can be a hassle for many students. Even if you find one, accreditation issues can put off some potential students.
Well, don’t worry. We have compiled a list of the cheapest Christian colleges in Illinois. These will help you in making an informed decision about your future.
5 Cheapest Christian Colleges in Illinois
The decision of which institute to choose depends on many things, including the cost, program availability, quality of education, accommodation, mode of learning, and the institute’s environment.
However, to give you a general idea, we have five options in the Prairie State. You should pick the one that best suits your interests and financial condition.
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Bible Colleges for Theological Studies #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Illinois 2025 #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
61%
Student body
3K
Overview of Moody Bible Institute in Chicago
- Acceptance rate: 94%
- Graduation rate: 41%
- Financial aid: Yes
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education
- In-state tuition cost: $13,898
- Out-of-state tuition fee: $13,898
- Focus Study Area: Theological and Ministerial Studies, Religious Education, Youth Ministry, Religious/Sacred Music
What We Love About This College?
With a minimal tuition fee and a high acceptance rate, Moody Bible is an amazing option on the list. The college, founded in 1886, equips students with biblical and ministry knowledge to empower them to impact their surroundings through Christianity.
With a lower student-faculty ratio, students become part of a close-knit community that gives them the chance to nourish their Christian faiths.
The institute features a library, gymnasium, and student centers, providing students with facilities for academic study and community engagement. On top of this, there are various labs to equip students with practical ministry training.
- Moody Bible Institute is best for students who: Students looking for an immersive biblical and practical ministry experience find Moody Bible Institute a good choice.
- Moody Bible Institute isn’t suitable for students who: The academic programs aren’t as diverse as in other Christian colleges, so students who want to explore various academic options may not find this an ideal spot.
Moody Bible Institute’s Online Degrees
BS in Biblical Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Integrated Ministry Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Ministry Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Theological Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
54%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Eureka College
Cost of Degree: $28,400Expenses: $12,992Starting Salary: $40,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOverview of Eureka College
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Graduation rate: 41%
- Financial aid: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Focus study area: Business Administration and Management, Psychology, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Special Education and Teaching, English Language and Literature, Communication.
What We Love About This College?
The Eureka College, founded in 1855, ranks at 41 positions in the Regional Colleges Midwest. One famous program that helps students positively impact society is the Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program. It helps in building ethical leaders who can lead society in an exemplary way.
In addition, students also get a liberal arts education as part of the Disciples of Christ tradition that enhances their intellectual growth and gives them the spirit to serve the community.
- Eureka College is best for students who: The learning environment at Eureka College is supportive and inclusive, which is best for students who want to connect with teachers and alumni for a better learning experience.
- Eureka College isn’t suitable for students who: Lower graduation rate at Eureka College indicates competitive education, which may not be suitable for students with average academics.
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
58%
Graduation
53%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1025/21
Career Outlook for degree at Judson University
Cost of Degree: $30,910Expenses: $15,590Starting Salary: $47,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOverview of Judson University
- Acceptance rate: 59%
- Graduation rate: 44%
- Financial aid: Yes
- Accreditation: HLC
- Focus Study Area: Architecture, Psychology, Human Services, Speech Communication and Rhetoric
What We Love About This College?
Judson University was established in 1963 in Illinois. It empowers students to focus on their personal development through educational and spiritual training. Students can be involved in research work, internships, and other community work that help them make a positive impact beyond the campus boundaries.
The university offers diverse academic programs such as business, psychology, arts, and architecture, which make it the right choice for students who want to explore various fields.
- Judson University is best for students who: Judson University has a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, which makes it a perfect fit for students looking for close interactions with educators.
- Judson University isn’t suitable for students who: There aren’t a lot of extra-curricular activities, which may put off students seeking a vibrant social scene outside of academics.
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
69%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1010/24
Career Outlook for degree at Trinity Christian College
Cost of Degree: $20,325Expenses: $17,500Starting Salary: $44,600Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOverview of Trinity Christian College
- Acceptance rate: 71%
- Graduation rate: 67%
- Accreditation: HLC
- Financial aid: Yes
- Focus Study Area: Elementary Education, Psychology, Special Education and Teaching, Social Work.
What We Love About This College?
Founded in 1823, Trinity Christian College ranks 15th in Regional Colleges Midwest rankings. It offers students an environment where they experience personal, professional, and spiritual growth. Trinity Christian College offers around 70 academic and professional programs, and students can choose the one that best suits their interests.
The curriculum of each program is designed in such a way that students can connect their faith and learning. In addition, open discussion on faith and participation in chapel services create a sense of awareness in students.
- Trinity Christian College is Best for Students Who: Students who want to be involved in community work, faith research, internships, and real application of classroom knowledge find Trinity Christian College an attractive option.
- Trinity Christian College isn’t Suitable for Students Who: The college doesn’t offer too many extracurricular activities, which may not attract students who love to party and enjoy their campus life.
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
58%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1009/21
Career Outlook for degree at Greenville University
Cost of Degree: $30,598Expenses: $14,966Starting Salary: $39,900Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOverview of Greenville University
- Acceptance rate: 94%
- Graduation rate: 45%
- Financial aid: Yes
- Accreditation: HLC
- Focus Study Area: Elementary education and Teaching, Business Administration and Management, Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration, Organizational Behaviour Studies, Psychology, Social Work, and Digital Arts
What We Love About This College?
Founded in 1892, Greenville University provides students with spiritual knowledge along with proper academic education. The faculty at the university is popular for giving extra attention to individual students to offer them personalized guidance. They aim to create an environment where students receive education as per their unique needs.
There are special cultural events that allow students to participate in community services. Campus life at this university includes academic clubs, honors societies, and community work.
- Greenville University is best for students who: Students who love experiential learning with a focus on teamwork and character development prefer Greenville University.
- Greenville University isn’t suitable for students who: GU has one of the highest tuition fees on the list, which may not be a financially viable option for many students.
Greenville University’s Online Degrees
BS in Agribusiness
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Related Questions
Which is the toughest religious college in Illinois?
With about a 5% graduation rate, Hebrew Theological College is one of the toughest colleges in Illinois to graduate. However, it’s worth mentioning that Hebrew Theological College is a Jewish-centric institute in Illinois.
What types of ministry opportunities are available for students at Judson University?
At Judson University, students have various ministry opportunities, including mission trips, local outreach programs, campus ministries, and volunteering with community organizations. These avenues allow students to apply their faith in practical ways.
Do cheap Christian colleges in Illinois offer high-quality education?
Yes. Being a cheap Christian college doesn’t necessarily mean low-quality education. That’s why it’s important to consider other factors, such as state ranking, student-to-faculty ratio, mode of learning, financial aid, and availability of your desired program.
Conclusion
Illinois is home to a variety of Christian schools. You should opt for the one that offers the program that suits your interests and allows you to participate in community services. This way, you can have a quality education while nurturing your spiritual growth.
