The PAR program is an exceptional value, thanks to the generous level of benefits afforded PAR students during the spring semester and summer session, while they are fulfilling their internships. Not only is tuition waived during this time, but students also receive a $500-a-month stipend during their internship, a total of $3,000 for six months.
Although students must pay tuition for the fall semester, UIS is among the state's most reasonably priced institutions of higher education. The tab in fall, 2006 for PAR students who were Illinois residents was $3,148, while out-of-state students were charged $9,444. Tuition is expected to increase again for the fall, 2007 semester. For the most current information, check with the Registration Office.
In addition to fall tuition, students must pay approximately $850 in required fees each semester, which includes a student insurance fee of roughly $300 that can be waived if a student has other coverage.
The University offers some campus housing, but the school is located on the city's southeastern edge. Thus, most PAR students prefer to stay in rented homes or apartments closer to the Statehouse for easy commuting to their internships. Housing costs in Springfield are reasonable, with comfortable apartments available unfurnished in the $400 to $450 a month range for singles and $650 to $750 a month for two-bedrooms.