Harper College is closed Friday, July 3, for Independence Day (Observed).
A July 2026 federal court ruling in the case United States v. Illinois affects tuition rates and state-funded financial aid for certain students during the 2026–27 school year. As a result of the ruling:
We understand these changes may create significant financial stress and uncertainty as you plan for the school year. If you are affected by this ruling, please know that you are an important part of the Harper community, and we want you here.
While the ruling limits some of the assistance Harper can provide, we are committed to helping you understand your options, connect with available resources and determine your next steps. This page includes current information, resources and answers to frequently asked questions, and we will continue to update it as new information becomes available.
The RISE Act is a state law that has allowed the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) to provide state financial aid to undocumented students who were eligible for in-state tuition. Students eligible for state financial aid under the RISE Act apply using the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid (Alternative Application).
On July 24, 2026, a federal district court ruled (pdf opens in a new window) that the current version of the RISE Act, as applied to undocumented students, is unlawful. The court also prohibited ISAC from providing state financial assistance to undocumented students under the current version of the RISE Act during the 2026–27 school year.
Unfortunately, yes, if you are an undocumented student who completed the Alternative Application for the 2026–27 school year.
Because of the judge's ruling, ISAC is not allowed to pay MAP grants or other state-funded financial aid under the current version of the RISE Act.
Because the ruling limits what the college may provide, Harper is not able to offer financial assistance specifically for students affected by the ruling. However, we are doing as much as we can within the law to help.
We encourage students to apply for scholarships, consider the Business EdVantage program and in-district employment to possibly lower tuition rates, and to apply for the Finish Line Grant once you are at least 70% complete with your degree or certificate.
In June 2026, Governor Pritzker signed into law an amendment to the RISE Act (HB 5093) that changes Illinois’ eligibility requirements for in-state tuition that goes into effect for the 2027-28 school year. The court’s ruling does not apply to HB 5093. Please note that some students may not qualify under the new eligibility requirements. The Alternative Application for the 2027-2028 school year is expected to open on October 1, 2026.
Keep an eye on your email for updates. We will continue to share information with you as we learn more and identify additional resources.
If you are an impacted student with questions specific to your situation, please contact a One Stop Advocate at 847.925.6709 or email Esmerelda Guerrero Lopez, Interim Undocumented Student Liaison, or call her at 847.925.6689.
To help protect your privacy and personal information, please do not include details about your status in email communications. You may request a private meeting to discuss your concerns and connect with resources.
Contact Us
One Stop Advocate
847.925.6709
Esmeralda Guerrero Lopez
Interim Undocumented Student Liaison
eguerrer@harpercollege.edu
847.925.6689