Admissions FAQ: International Students

Please refer to Application Deadlines for information. We accept international student applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.

We strongly encourage you to submit all application materials simultaneously to ensure a fast processing time. You can apply online at international.elgin.edu. However, your Form I-20 or DS-2019 will not be processed until all required application materials are on file and reviewed by a Designated School Official (DSO).

There are many on-campus jobs available while at ECC. You may work on-campus part-time (up to 20 hours per week). You must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better. Positions are available across all college departments. On-campus employment is a great way to meet new people and gain valuable experience. To apply, visit elgin.edu/studentjobs.

Off-campus employment requires approval by USCIS and/or a DSO. For more information on off-campus employment options, please view resources for current international students.

Unfortunately, international students are not eligible for an associate degree in nursing. Applicants MUST be legal residents of Community College District 509. Working in District 509 does not meet this requirement. International students on an F-1 visa are not eligible to apply to the nursing program.

Your achievements, both inside and outside the classroom, can earn you scholarship money to help cover educational expenses. Scholarships are a free resource you do not have to repay and are awarded for several reasons, including academic standing, leadership, specialized talents, and financial need. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Scholarships

Under federal F-1 regulations, you are permitted to arrive no earlier than 30 days before the program start date listed on your Form I-20.

Once all required admission documents are on file, your application materials will be reviewed and processed. The average time to process a request for a Form I-20 is 5-10 business days once a DSO has reviewed all application materials. Your Form I-20 and acceptance letter will be sent to you by email. Processing times may increase during peak periods. To check on the status of your application, please log in to the application portal or email us at international@elgin.edu.

Full-time enrollment is defined as a minimum of 12 semester hours in college-level courses or full-time enrollment in the Intensive English Program during the fall and spring semesters. In the summer session, full-time enrollment is defined as 6 semester hours.

You can view tuition fees and rates online at elgin.edu/tuition.

You can submit financial documents and an Affidavit of Sponsorships for multiple sponsors contributing financially to your education.

Like many community colleges in the U.S., ECC does not have traditional on-campus residence halls (dorms). However, several alternative housing options are available to students. You must finalize your housing arrangements at least 60 days before your program start date. You and your parents/guardians (if under age 18) are responsible for making final housing arrangements and decisions. ECC provides resources to assist with housing arrangements, but does not finalize or monitor living arrangements for students other than those participating in the International Student Homestay Program. The cost of and responsibility for arranging suitable housing is ultimately that of the student.

Please note: If you arrive at ECC and have not previously arranged for housing prior to your arrival, you will be directed to a local extended-stay facility and will be responsible for the cost of lodging and transportation.

We offer international students a comprehensive, one-stop resource for all matters related to non-immigrant status while studying in the U.S. In addition to new international student admission and international student advising, the college also offers:

• Academic and transfer advising 
• Admissions and recruitment
• Advising on F-1 visa regulations and policies
• Career development services
• Cultural activities and programs on/off-campus
• Disability and accommodation services
• Early alert system
• Full testing service center
• Fitness center on campus
• Free professional tutoring
• International student orientation and activities
• Wellness services