EIU Media Relations

S&P raises Eastern Illinois University’s financial outlook to ‘positive’

Ratings upgrade follows recent announcement of EIU as a USNWR “Top Value School”

(Charleston, IL)  – S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Eastern Illinois University’s financial outlook to ‘positive’ and affirmed the University’s underlying Better Business Bureau rating on its revenue bonds and certificates of participation. 

According to a report issued to the University, the outlook revision reflects EIU's recent operating surpluses, prudent expense management, enhanced financial aid policies, and increased state operating support.

“We are pleased with S&P’s recognition of Eastern Illinois University's financial progress and stability,” said EIU Vice President for Business Affairs Matt Bierman. “This upgraded outlook is a testament to EIU’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, alongside our efforts to provide a high-quality education for our students supported by EIU’s strong financial future.”

The rating further reflects EIU’s strengths, including sound retention and graduation rates, improved state funding, positive operating surpluses, solid balance sheet metrics, and a reasonable maximum annual debt service burden.

“This improved rating will help Eastern Illinois University secure better interest rates and ultimately save Illinois taxpayers money,” Bierman added. “Being a responsible steward of financial resources enhances our ability to fulfill our mission and to support a thriving Illinois.”

The announcement of EIU’s S&P upgrade follows earlier news this week announcing EIU as a Top 50 Best Value School by U.S News & World Report’s 2025 education rankings. EIU ranked 7th regionally in the Top 50 Best Value School rankings category, with an overall national ranking of #44. The recognition lets EIU’s prospective students, current learners and families know that EIU provides a high-quality education at an affordable price.

EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, or any of EIU’s other community-based services and opportunities, visit eiu.edu or call EIU’s public information office at (217) 581-7400.