Gov. J.B. Pritzker included $1 million to help state universities cover the cost of Common App for students. | Stock Photo
Gov. J.B. Pritzker included $1 million to help state universities cover the cost of Common App for students. | Stock Photo
Starting this fall, Illinois colleges and universities will begin using a single online application service to help curb the migration of students leaving the state by simplifying the college application process for potential students.
The state's 12 public universities will be added to Common Application's of colleges later this fall, Illinois Deputy Governor for Education Jesse Ruiz said in an interview with Fox 32 Chicago. The online service will enable college hopefuls easier access to multiple colleges and universities.
"There is now one common app where students can go and access all our public universities," Ruiz said "Illinois becomes only the second state in the nation to have all its public universities on the Common App."
Ruiz said the intent for using the Common App was to help decrease the number of students leaving the state to search for higher education opportunities. In the 2022 state budget, Gov. J.B. Pritzker included $1 million to help state universities cover the cost of Common App for students.
"It makes it easier for students to explore all the great options at all our twelve public universities," Ruiz said, "It just takes a lot of complexity out of the system and it's much easier and highlights opportunities for individuals who may not be aware."
Ruiz also said that public universities were "enthusiastically joining the effort" by highlighting the various programs of study they have to offer in order to generate more interest among potential students.
"We hope it promotes more and provides more opportunities and creates more work for admission offices across the state," Ruiz said." We want to have robust enrollments at all our public universities."
The Common App service is also available for transfer students or international students looking for education opportunities in Illinois, according to Ruiz.
Additionally, Ruiz stated the single application process Common App provides could also be easier for more technologically proficient high school students to utilize.
Common App is a nonprofit membership organization that connects college applicants to hundreds of universities and colleges worldwide.
Alerts Sign-up