Pay for College

Pay for College

ECC does not require students to disclose their immigration status as part of the general admissions process. Students should provide only the information requested as part of the application process.

Learn more about the eligibility requirements for District 509 tuition rates.

Undocumented students are not eligible for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA). Therefore, do not have a need to fill out FASFA.

[From ISAC]: On July 24, 2026, a federal district court ruled that undocumented students are no longer eligible to receive financial assistance from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) for the 2026-2027 school year. The court’s ruling is the result of the Trump Administration suing the State of Illinois to deny college access to undocumented students who have graduated from Illinois high schools.

If you are an undocumented student who completed the Alternative Application for the 2026-2027 school year. Because of the judge’s ruling, if you were awarded a MAP grant or any other ISAC financial aid under the current version of the RISE Act (by filing the Alternative Application instead of the FAFSA), ISAC is not allowed to pay these grants or scholarships to you or your institution for the 2026-27 school year. We know this court decision brings tremendous uncertainty and financial challenges for Illinois undocumented students. The State of Illinois recognizes the harms to students as a result of this decision, and remains dedicated to college access, affordability, and opportunity for all students. Please see ISAC’s Student and Family FAQs for more information.

Students are encouraged to review scholarship opportunities. Students may contact Financial Aid and Scholarship Office to learn more about available opportunities.

The Board of Trustees Academic Scholarship is available to high school students graduating this year. Students can apply and receive a scholarship for up to four consecutive semesters (excluding summer). Check with the Financial Aid and Scholarships Office for other Board of Trustees scholarships.

Students at ECC may also consider the Foundation Scholarship. Learn more about these scholarships on our Scholarships page.

Numerous scholarships are also available that Elgin Community College does not provide. Consider applying for one or more.

Financing Education Resource

  • Students may contact Financial Aid. We’re here to help you manage the cost of college! Our friendly and knowledgeable financial aid professionals are ready to assist you in finding the best ways to pay for your education. They can connect you with various financial resources, including grants, scholarships and flexible payment plans.
  • The Center for Financial Empowerment & Wellness is located inside the Renner Academic Library in Building C. It includes a full-service Consumers Credit Union branch that serves students, employees, and community members. To contact the branch directly, call 847-741-3344.
  • Contact the Scholarship Office to learn more about available opportunities.
  • Financial literacy 101 Program: Tuition bills and financial aid applications can be confusing. Our Financial Literacy Program offers free resources to help you navigate the options and set a budget.

Contact

Records

Building B, Room B105
847-214-7386
Fax: 847-214-7356
records@elgin.edu

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Friday: 8 am to 4 pm