Illinois does not provide funding for private education, but does offer an Education Expense tax credit for qualified education expenses of K-12 students.

Among others, recognized nonpublic schools must provide instruction in English (except as otherwise permitted under the law), in language arts, mathematics, the biological physical and social sciences, the fine arts, and physical development and health education.

Nonpublic teachers do not have to hold certifications but must have a bachelors degree or higher and must be evaluated every 2 years for job proficiency.

In Illinois, school lunch requirements, including funding for schools offering the National School Lunch Program, are managed by the Illinois State Board of Education.

For registered and recognized schools, the length of the school year must be at least 176 days of student attendance, with at least five hours of instruction daily, or a total of 880 hours of instruction per school year.

Schools must provide the state with the number of immunized students, the number who haven't complied, and the number claiming religious or health exemptions. They must also keep official records of student academic progress and are obligated to transfer them to any school students may transfer to.

Students are required to have health exams and show proof of immunizations before enrolling in school. Schools must hold fire, severe weather, and bomb threat/active shooter drills each year.

District school boards are required to provide transportation for nonpublic students. Additionally, the Chicago Transit Authority offers reduced fares to students, including nonpublic students.

There is no state policy for testing.