Transfer Returning Students

Have you attended another college or university?

Applying to ECC is simple whether you’re returning to ECC or transferring from another institution. Plus, there is no application fee. Follow these steps whether you’re applying for a degree or certificate program or want to take classes for credit.

Are you a summer-only student? Be sure to follow the summer-only student enrollment process. 

Step 1: Apply for Admission

Returning students do not need to reapply if it has been less than two years since they last attended ECC.

Summer students should confirm with their college advisor which ECC course is equivalent to their required courses before applying. See what matches your particular school by visiting the Transferology Website if you attend a college/university in Illinois.

What’s next? A detailed welcome letter will be sent to you once your application has been processed. The welcome letter outlines your next steps for completing your enrollment, so be sure to follow all the steps!

Apply Now

Step 2: Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

Get help paying for college by applying for financial aid and scholarships! ECC offers comprehensive financial aid options, including federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. You should apply for financial aid, even if you think you may not be eligible.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for adults. The Alternative Application for state aid is for qualifying undocumented and transgender students.

What’s next? Award notifications are made by the ECC Financial Aid & Scholarships Office via email.

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

If you are transferring 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. 

What’s next? You must complete placement testing if your prior college or high school coursework does not meet college readiness requirements.

Testing Appointments

Step 4: Complete New Student Orientation

Shortly after you apply, you will receive an invitation to complete our online New Student Orientation. Summer-only students do not need to attend 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

After completing the online orientation, you will receive a link to schedule an appointment with an academic advisor. They will help you determine which classes to take and how to register.

Step 6: Register for Classes

Meet with an academic advisor to review the options or see the course catalog. Some classes fill quickly, so sign up early to reserve your spot.

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.

Payment