Apply as a New College Student

First time in college? Here’s how to get started on a bright future at ECC.

There’s no better time to invest in yourself, your education, and your future at Elgin Community College. Applying is easy, and there is no application fee. Whether you’re applying for a degree or certificate program or want to take a class or two for credit, follow these steps.

Step 1: Apply for Admission to Elgin Community College

ECC has an open admission policy, so no one is turned away. You will receive a detailed welcome letter by email and postal mail once your application has been processed, outlining your next steps for completing your enrollment, including transcripts and other required documents.

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Account Set-up Instructions

Step 2: Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

Priority Processing Dates

• Fall enrollment - July 1
• Spring enrollment - November 1
• Summer enrollment - April 1

You can still apply after these dates. If you apply after the priority deadline, set up a payment plan to hold your classes.

Explore Financial Aid 

Explore Scholarships

Step 3: Submit Transcripts and Test Scores

You will receive a letter with information about how to satisfy placement test requirements for your program of study. There are many ways you can demonstrate college readiness. Send your high school, college, and/or military transcripts to admissions@elgin.edu. Returning students must only submit transcripts if they attended another institution before returning to ECC.

If you transfer to ECC from another college, your past coursework may meet college readiness requirements. We’re committed to crediting you for as much of your prior coursework as possible. Here’s what you need to do to ensure your past credits are considered for your ECC path:

1. Submit your official high school and transcripts from each institution you’ve attended to admissions@elgin.edu
2. Complete the Transcript Evaluation Request Form.

If you’re transferring credit from an institution in another country, see Evaluation of College Credit Earned Outside the U.S.

Step 4: Complete New Student Orientation Online

Once you have submitted the required placement tests for your health professions program of study, you will receive an invitation to complete our online New Student Orientation.

What’s next? Students wanting to transfer credit into ECC should complete the Request for Evaluation before meeting with an advisor.

Step 5: Meet with an Academic Advisor

Once you successfully finish the online orientation, the next step in your academic journey awaits! After completing this, you will receive a link to schedule a personalized appointment with one of our dedicated academic advisors. These advisors are here to guide you through the exciting process of selecting your classes and provide step-by-step assistance navigating the registration process.

During your appointment, the advisor will take the time to understand your academic goals, answer any questions, and offer valuable insights into your various courses. This one-on-one interaction will help you make informed decisions about your educational path.

Step 6: Register for Classes

In anticipation of high demand, we recommend taking the proactive step of signing up for classes early to secure your spot.

Registration Opens

• Fall enrollment
• Spring enrollment
• Summer enrollment

Register Now

Step 7: Make Payment Arrangements

Payment is the final step to keeping your spot in class! Your statement is only available on the student portal and will not be mailed to you. Arrange payment by the due date. The earlier you sign up for a payment plan, the more options you have. If you register after the payment due date, payment is due the following day by 7 pm.