Illinois is launching the One Click College Admit program, streamlining the path to higher education for high school seniors and community college transfer students. Under this initiative, eligible students will receive automatic admission offers from participating state universities based solely on their grade point average. The new process eliminates traditional barriers like application fees, essays, and letters of recommendation. State leaders hope this move will make college more accessible and encourage more Illinois residents to pursue four-year degrees. The program is set to open this fall, signaling a significant shift toward broadening opportunities within public higher education.
“Enhancing access to Illinois’ public universities and community colleges with One Click College Admit will empower even more talented students across the state to realize their full academic potential through higher education,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This program marks another step in my administration’s steadfast effort to make Illinois the best state in the nation to receive an accessible, high-quality education — one that sets students of all backgrounds up for lifelong success.”
“One Click College Admit will ensure every student a spot at one of our state public institutions – making our state’s higher education system more accessible and equitable. Getting into college will be easy and stress-free for students and parents in Illinois,” said IBHE Executive Director Ginger Ostro. “This new program is designed to remove barriers often encountered when applying to college, especially for students who are the first in their family to go to college.”
“Illinois community colleges offer students a clear, affordable pathway to degrees, transfer opportunities and in-demand careers,” said ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham. “One Click College Admit removes barriers and ensures students know that community college is not just an option—it’s a smart first step toward their future.”
“By eliminating the stress of essays and burden of fees, One Click College Admit creates opportunities for students who might not have thought college was an option for them,” said ISAC Executive Director Eric Zarnikow. “Working together with our sister agencies and policymakers on the state’s new direct admissions program, we can make college possible for more Illinois students.”
High school seniors across Illinois now have access to a new, streamlined path to college admission. The One Click College Admit program allows students to receive automatic acceptances to Illinois public colleges and universities by simply creating a Common App account and entering their basic information and GPA. This initiative, supported by state agencies and policymakers, aims to reduce barriers such as application fees and stressful essay requirements. Officials are hopeful this move will expand opportunities for students who may not have previously considered college as an option. The program is open for those planning to enroll in the fall of 2026.
“We know from the latest research that a college degree remains one of the most reliable paths to higher income and economic mobility for students from all backgrounds,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “One Click College Admit is removing barriers and making the path to higher education as simple as possible, so more Illinois students can access the opportunities and earning potential that come with a degree.”
“Programs like One Click College Admit continue to streamline the college admissions process that will help keep Illinois’ best and brightest in our state,” said Dr. Jason Leahy, Executive Director of the Illinois Principals Association. The IPA looks forward to continuing to work with the state agencies to ensure our young people find educational opportunities in Illinois that best meet their needs.”
Starting with the class of 2027, students can opt in during their junior year via an online form. This process allows their GPA to be shared with the Illinois Student Assistance Commission and matches them with direct admission offers from partner public universities as seniors. Community college students can also take part beginning in January 2026, provided they have at least 30 transferable credits. Community colleges remain open enrollment, continuing to provide accessible education opportunities statewide.
