5 Cheapest Grad Schools in Illinois 2025

5 Cheapest Grad Schools in Illinois 2025
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Public colleges in Illinois offer the cheapest tuition rates.
  • Residents of Illinois pay significantly less to attend a grad school in the state than non-residents pay.
  • One of the cheapest grad schools from our list offers a solid opportunity for low student-to-faculty ratios.

Cheapest Grad Schools in Illinois in 2025

  1. Chicago State University
  2. Western Illinois University
    +1
  3. Eastern Illinois University
    +2
  4. University of Illinois Springfield
  5. National Louis University
    –3

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.

In 2025, the cheapest grad schools in Illinois saw a fair amount of movement. Eastern Illinois University raised two ranking positions as the school modernized campus facilities, particularly updated classrooms and labs with advanced technology to enhance learning experiences. The university has expanded its mental health and wellness services, offering more accessible counseling and support programs. Career services have also been enhanced, with more internship and job placement opportunities through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, ensuring students are well-prepared for their post-graduation careers.

The following are the five grad schools that offer students with a premium educational experience at minimum tuition fees:

  1. #1

    Chicago State University

    Chicago , IL
    #5 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #6 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    49%

    Graduation

    28%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Chicago State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,018
    Expenses: $20,700
    Starting Salary: $38,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Chicago State University

    • Acceptance rate: 47%
    • Graduation rate: 5%
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    • Major subjects: Pharmacy, Arts, Occupation Therapy, Social Work, and Business Administration

    What Do We Love About Chicago State University? 

    Chicago State University opened its doors for the first time as a teacher training school in Blue Island, Illinois, in 1867. Today, the university is highly accredited and has around 660 enrolled grad students as of fall 2024.

    Spreading over 161 acres, CSU welcomes students from various states and countries to leverage its diverse programs. CSU focuses on providing students with an inclusive and highly engaging learning environment where they can explore innovative ideas.

    • Chicago State University is great for students who: The university’s low tuition fees combined with highly experienced and supportive staff makes it an incredible option for students seeking excellent education at affordable rates.
    • Chicago State University might not be best for students who: A 5% graduation rate indicates an extremely tough academic journey for students.
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Western Illinois University

    Macomb , IL
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    9K

    Career Outlook for degree at Western Illinois University

    Cost of Degree: $13,661
    Expenses: $13,721
    Starting Salary: $47,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Western Illinois University

    • Acceptance rate: 75%
    • Graduation rate: 28%
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
    • Major Subjects or Fields: Instructional Design and Technology, Computer Science, Applied Statistics and Decision Analytics, Business Administration, and Accountancy

    What Do We Love About Western Illinois University?

    Founded in 1899, Western Illinois University is another one of Illinois’s most affordable grad schools. There are around 2,334 total graduate students at WIU. The university offers plenty of financial aid options to students. Resultantly, only a small percentage of students pay full tuition fees.

    The most prominent one is the President’s Scholarship, which covers 100% of a student’s education cost. In addition, professors at the WIU are highly knowledgeable and supportive. They keep pushing students toward innovation and research.

    • Western Illinois University is great for students who: The university has a state-of-the-art facility and a supportive staff that’s suitable for students who are looking for enriching educational experiences at an affordable cost.
    • Western Illinois University might not be best for students who: Want to specialize in Computer Science as the university’s CS program may not offer the depth of courses and resources compared to other institutes.

    Western Illinois University’s Online Degrees

    BB in Accountancy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Economics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BB in Economics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interpersonal Communication And Processes
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    3. Facade of a typical college building
  4. #3

    Eastern Illinois University

    Charleston , IL
    #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #2 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    11K

    Career Outlook for degree at Eastern Illinois University

    Cost of Degree: $12,809
    Expenses: $13,696
    Starting Salary: $46,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Eastern Illinois University

    • Acceptance rate: 68%
    • Graduation rate: 35%
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparedness and Higher Learning Commission
    • Major Subjects or Fields: Communications, Criminal Justice, Adult Development, Anthropology, and Biology

    What Do We Love About Eastern Illinois University?

    The last option on our list of affordable grad schools in Illinois is Eastern Illinois University. Established in 1895, it was first opened for the public as a teacher’s college offering 2-year degree programs.

    However, the university later expanded its size and curriculum and now offers Master’s and Doctorate degrees in business, science, and arts. The staff at EIU is very caring and understanding, providing students with top-notch support and guidance throughout their academic journey.

    • Eastern Illinois University is great for students who: The campus atmosphere is welcoming, and there are meet and greet events for students who love to engage with fellow alums to build lasting relationships.
    • Eastern Illinois University might not be best for students who: Students looking to pursue a business degree may not find this university a good option due to potentially limited resources.

    Eastern Illinois University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Development
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication In Organizations
    • Required Credits: 46
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 35
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Promotion
    Degree Concentrations
    • Emergency Management And Disaster Preparedness
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  5. #4

    University of Illinois Springfield

    Springfield , IL
    #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #10 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1104/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Illinois Springfield

    Cost of Degree: $12,190
    Expenses: $14,388
    Starting Salary: $49,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of University of Illinois Springfield

    • Acceptance Rate: 82%
    • Graduation Rate: 43%
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
    • Major Subjects or Fields: Technology, Business, Education, Science, Government, Public Health and The Humanities

    What Do We Love About the University of Illinois Springfield?

    The University of Illinois Springfield was founded in 1969 and spread over 746 acres. The institute has around 2,319 graduate students as of fall 2024.

    UIS offers more than 70 graduate programs and certificates, catering to various academic interests and career goals. Students can also avail of twenty graduate programs and thirty graduate certificates online to make education more accessible.

    • University of Illinois Springfield is great for students who: The professors at UIS are very supportive, which makes this institute attractive for students seeking personalized and one-on-one guidance.
    • University of Illinois Springfield might not be best for students who: Want to excel in their educational journey while studying online as the university currently doesn’t provide the same learning environment for online students as on campus.

    University of Illinois Springfield’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 53-55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Sports Management
    • Required Credits: 53-55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 53-55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 53-55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 53-55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    6. Three women wearing black graduation robes and caps walking on a concrete pathway of a college park
  6. #5

    National Louis University

    Chicago , IL
    #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #6 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs #10 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025 #16 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for degree at National Louis University

    Cost of Degree: $14,244
    Starting Salary: $50,800

    Overview of National Louis University

    • Acceptance rate: 92%
    • Graduation rate: 23%
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission and American Psychological Association
    • Major Subjects or Fields: Special Education and Teaching, Clinical Psychology, Child Development, Human Resources Management, and Business

    What Do We Love About National Louis University?

    National Louis University, founded in 1886 to train kindergarten teachers, now offers over 70 undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university has a community of around 8,600 graduate students enrolled in various grad programs. One of the most attractive aspects of NLU is its diversity and inclusivity.

    It’s ranked among the 25 most diverse universities in the US, welcoming students from different backgrounds and cultures. This diversity builds a collaborative learning environment and a vibrant campus community. NLU offers a Community Hero Program that provides financial assistance to military members, first responders, and their families through scholarships.

    • National Louis University is great for students who: The university is suitable for students who want affordable education and an immersive learning experience with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
    • National Louis University might not be best for students who: NLU accepts most of the applicants. However, getting a degree within a specified time is quite challenging as indicated by low graduation rates.  

    National Louis University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Sciences
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BABS in Communications
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Leadership
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Are you an undergraduate looking for quality grad schools in the Prairie State? Illinois has one of the most reputed institutes. However, finding affordable options requires a lot of research and effort. To help you pick the best option, we’ll walk you through the list of cheapest grad schools in Illinois.

Three students filtering through a pile of books on their table

5 Cheapest Grad Schools in Illinois

Higher education is becoming expensive in the US. If you are in Illinois or are considering this state for your graduate study, you are in luck. Illinois is home to many affordable colleges, giving opportunities to students to access quality education without incurring financial burdens.

Related Questions

What are the advantages of studying in Illinois?

Regarding education, Illinois is among the top fifteen states in the US and one of the finest in the Midwest. Most universities have a lower student-to-faculty ratio, meaning students can enjoy a personalized learning experience in some of the top national and midwest universities.

Why are in-state fees usually lower than out-of-state fees?

State schools get funding and grants from state taxes. Thus, they offer lower or subsidized tuition fees to students who are residents of the state because their families have contributed to state taxes. To qualify for in-state tuition fees in Illinois, your family must live in or move to the state 12 months before your first day of grad school.

What GPA is required for National Louis University?

To get into the National Louis University as a grad student, a private non-profit institute, you need a GPA of 3.0 or above. This institute is a top priority for many students as it’s positioning itself as an innovative and community-focused higher education school.

Conclusion

Finding an affordable grad school in Illinois is no easy feat. You must consider factors like tuition costs, financial aid opportunities, program offerings, location, and mostly fit with your career goals before choosing.

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