University of Illinois System
Our CompassLocationsImpactPriorities & Initiatives

Budget

The total FY 2024 operating budget* for the University of Illinois System is $7.8 billion.

University of Illinois System Budget, Fiscal Year 2024

graph of where the money comes from

graph of how the money is spent

Download the budget breakdown percentages

Budget FAQ

What are ‘state revenues’ and ‘state payments on behalf?’

State revenues are the unrestricted funds received from the state, also known as “state direct appropriations.” These funds, along with tuition income, are used to pay salaries and operating costs such as utilities and maintenance. State of Illinois payments on behalf are restricted funds from the state of Illinois paid out for two purposes:

  1. to the State Universities Retirement System (SURS) as a contribution to employees’ retirement funds
  2. to the state of Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, covering a portion of the cost of providing employee health insurance

How does the U of I System determine each year how the funds will be spent?

For each fiscal year, the system presents a budget request to the Board of Trustees for review based on requests from all the campuses, colleges, and units. Once the trustees have approved the budget request, it goes to the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE). IBHE reviews the budget requests from all state universities and creates an overall budget recommendation that is submitted to the legislature. Once an appropriation has been enacted by the legislature and is signed by the governor, the system creates its final budget (Budget Summary for Operations) that is presented to the Board of Trustees. 

Aside from tuition and fees, state/federal funding, and donation, in what ways does the system generate revenue?

Some examples of income-generating activities across the system include: housing, athletics, patient care through the hospital and medical colleges, student union operations, facility rental, and parking. These are restricted funds and must be used to support the activities.

Can I view a copy of the current budget?

Yes. The budget request and the Budget Summary for Operations are posted each year by the Board of Trustees.