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Upward Mobility Program
Registration for the Upward Mobility Program will be temporarily suspended from December 1, 2025, through February 28, 2026, per the agreement between AFSCME Local 31 and CMS as we streamline our processes and train new staff. During this time, new and renewal registrations will not be available.
Registration will reopen on March 1, 2026.
Employees who are currently participating in the program will continue as normal. Employees who registered on or before November 30, 2025, will still be contacted for counseling and support during this period.
Employees who already have a bachelor’s or master’s degree may, prior to registration reopening, submit a UMP Promotional Application (UMP100B) for any dual or credential UMP target titles for which they believe they are qualified. Please remember:
- A copy of your official transcripts must be included with your application.
- Submit your application by email to CMS.UMP100@illinois.gov.
- Links to the UMP100B form and Targeted Job Title Descriptions and requirements are available on the UMP website.
We appreciate your patience and continued interest in the Upward Mobility Program.
What Is the Upward Mobility Program?
The Upward Mobility Program is designed to provide designated groups of State employees with career counseling and, contingent upon available funding, direct-paid educational and training opportunities that will permit employees to work toward advancement in selected career paths.
Advantages:
- Tuition Assistance: Funding covers tuition and fees directly, making education more accessible.
- Paid Time Off: Employees receive paid time off to take Upward Mobility tests and take necessary classes.
- Contractual Rights: UMP participants gain elevated contractual rights when bidding on Upward Mobility Target Titles, enhancing their chances of securing higher-paying positions.
- Individualized Education Plan: UMP helps individuals advance efficiently by tying testing and education directly to specific target titles.
Am I Qualified?
- Be employed by the State of Illinois.
- Hold a position covered by the AFSCME collective bargaining agreement.
- Have completed their probationary period.
- Meet any additional eligibility requirements specified by their agency.
Applying is as easy as 1-2-3!
For employees who wish to have their current education and experience evaluated for UMP titles in lieu of coursework and/or testing, please see below. Registration is not required.
Explore the titles and find the one you would like to pursue.
Complete the registration process for the Upward Mobility Program.
A Career Counselor will contact you to complete your career development plan.
If you receive a registration ineligibility message and feel it is in error, please know that our system is being updated at this time and may not contain recent information. We are reviewing all registration attempts on a daily basis and verifying eligibility. Once verified, your registration is complete and a counselor will be contacting you. Please allow 2 weeks. If, after verification occurs, you are deemed ineligible, you will receive a separate notification, along with the reason. For questions, please contact Upward Mobility at (833) 452-4836. Thank you.
Ways to Participate
Obtain A Degree
Certain professions require a college degree or credential. The Upward Mobility Program can assist with tuition payment at UMP approved schools and help you get the education you need to advance your career.
Testing
State employees in the Upward Mobility Program can take tests to demonstrate qualifications for specific positions. This process assesses readiness through standardized examinations.
Resume/Experience
Employees with a bachelor’s or master’s degree can submit an UMP Promotional Application, UMP100B, for any dual or credential UMP target titles for which you think you are qualified.