Public Agenda surveyed Illinois residents to learn about how they view public higher education and what would help it serve them and the state better. Three research briefs highlight key findings from the broader survey findings. This brief finds that 46% of Illinois residents do not have a post-secondary credential and are not currently enrolled in a community college or 4-year college or university. Among this group, 56% wanted to pursue a degree after high school but couldn't afford to, and 74% believed their best option for future success was to enter the workforce directly after completing high school.