Planning for College

Community colleges and junior colleges offer programs that typically take two years to complete. Students can earn an associate’s degree, complete career training, or transfer to a four-year school.

Example: Oakton College, Harper College, College of DuPage

These schools offer bachelor’s degrees and may also provide graduate programs. They often have a wider range of academic majors, research opportunities, and campus activities.

Examples: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, Illinois State University, Loyola State University

Public colleges are funded by state governments, often making them more affordable for in-state residents.

Example: Northern Illinois University, Northeastern Illinois University, University of Illinois Chicago, Western Illinois University

Private colleges rely on tuition, donations, and endowments and may offer smaller class sizes or specialized programs.

Examples: DePaul University, North Central College, Dominican University, Illinois Wesleyan University

These schools focus on a broad-based education in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, helping students develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Examples: Lake Forest College, Knox College, Augustana College, Illinois Wesleyan University

Designed for hands-on career training, these schools prepare students for specific industries like healthcare, technology, automotive, or the skilled trades. Programs often lead to certificates, credentials, or associate’s degrees.

Examples: Illinois Institute of Art, Universal Technical Institute, HVAC Technical Institute, Paul Mitchell Schools, 

Some colleges are women-only or men-only and offer unique traditions, networking opportunities, and learning environments.

Examples: Saint Mary's College, Morehouse College

HBCUs were founded to provide higher education opportunities to Black students and continue to offer strong academic programs, cultural connections, and supportive communities.

Examples: Howard University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Florida A&M University

HSIs are colleges and universities where at least 25% of full-time undergraduate students identify as Hispanic, often offering programs and resources to support Latino students’ success.

Examples: National Louis University, Northeastern Illinois University, Elgin Community College