Campus Diversity

ECC is a community where you will be treated with respect. Ensuring our students and communities have access to the educational resources needed is at the core of ECC's mission to improve people's lives through learning. We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, beliefs, ethnicities, genders, gender identities, gender expressions, national origins, religious affiliations, sexual orientations, and abilities (and other visible and non-visible differences) so everyone can thrive. District 509 is incredibly diverse, and that diversity is reflected in ECC’s students. We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and equity. All are welcome here. 

• Citizenship Preparation Program
• Clubs and Organizations
• English as a Second Language
• Events on Campus
• TRiO Support for First-Generation Students
• TRIUMPH Mentorship for Men of Color
• Undocumented Students
• Veteran Services

Citizenship Preparation Program

ECC can help immigrants prepare for applying to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and understand USCIS policies and procedures. Citizenship services are provided through a partnership of education, training, and social services specialists.

Citizenship Skills

Clubs and Organizations

Build confidence, make friends and gain leadership skills through participation in campus life. All of our clubs are student-led organizations with simple sign-up procedures. Clubs celebrate the many identities, cultural backgrounds, and interests on campus. Some of these include ADAPT, Asian Filipino, ECC Observer, Engineering Tech, Forensics Team, Phi Rho Pi, Military Branches United, Organization of Latin American Students, PTK International Honor Society, Recovery of All Kinds, Spartan Christian Fellowship, Students Who Are Not Silent, United Students of All Cultures, and more. 

Clubs and Organizations

English as a Second Language

English as second language instruction can benefit non-native English speakers, regardless of language group or nationality. In addition, gaining confidence in written and spoken English skills can be critical to your college and workforce success. ECC’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Courses are offered day and evening.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Events on Campus

Student Life and other ECC departments host hundreds of speakers, events, and get-togethers throughout the year. Remember, your college experience outside the classroom is just as important as your success inside!

Student Life Calendar

• African American Connection
• Asian Pacific Month
• Black History Month
• International Week
• Latinx Heritage Month
• Prayer Space
• Safe Zone LGBTQ+ Training
• Study Abroad
• TRIUMPH Program
• Women’s History Month

TRiO Support for First-Generation Students

First-generation students identify as the first in their family to attend college or for which neither parent nor guardian graduated from a college or university in the United States. More than 35% of ECC's students are considered 'first-gen. This program supports eligible students whose second language is English and who are enrolled in mainstream college classes. Our student organization United Students of All Cultures and Organization of Latin American Students, builds community and helps students navigate a path to and through college. 

TRiO Student Support

TRIUMPH Mentorship for Men of Color

Transforming and Impacting Undergraduate Men Pursuing Higher Education (TRIUMPH) Program provides training and mentorship to help young men of color navigate their ECC journey. In addition, the annual Men of Color Conference held in January brings voices from the community to ECC. Students can also participate in United Students of All Cultures, the Black Student Achievers club on campus, and other annual events, including our Asian Pacific Month in April, Black History Month in February, and the annual HBCU College Fair.

TRIUMPH program

Undocumented Students

All students at Elgin Community College use the same online application. Undocumented students, who have neither US citizenship nor a visa allowing them to enroll in college coursework, are not considered international students and may apply according to the standard admission process regardless of resident status. Our application does not require an SSN or an ITIN to register for classes or receive a certificate or degree. Sources for financial aid and scholarships are also available. 

Undocumented Students

Veterans Services

ECC’s campus includes veterans’ experiences. Our student-run club, Military Branches United, provides a way to meet other veterans on campus. In addition, a monthly Veterans Newsletter, weekly resource center hours, and celebrations for Memorial Day and Labor Day celebrate the contributions that veterans have made.

Veteran Services