The bill would require state public universities and community colleges to give students who score a three or higher on a five-point scale college credit for the exam. The legislation passed the House in November and now is being considered in the Senate.

Public universities in neighboring states including Wisconsin already accept scores of three or higher.

Democratic Sen. Tom Cullerton is a sponsor of the bill. He says the legislation make college more affordable and makes sure the state is competitive with neighbors which lure away Illinois students. But some critics say the legislation would discourage high performance on the exams.