2021 - ECC sees 27% increase in summer enrollment as excitement builds for fall semester

Elgin Community College is experiencing a significant rise in enrollment for the summer 2021 semester, with a 27.5 percent increase compared to summer 2020. More than 4,300 students are currently enrolled in summer programming at ECC.

“We are encouraged by our strong summer enrollments that have rebounded back to just under pre-pandemic levels. As we head into the fall semester, we understand that our students are still facing many challenges,” said ECC President David Sam, PhD, JD, LLM. “ECC is committed to working closely with each and every student to provide the guidance and support they need to succeed in achieving their career and educational goals.

Sam also stresses that the time to act is now for anyone considering starting or returning to school. The college is currently preparing for the fall semester, beginning on August 23.

Classes will continue to be offered in online, hybrid, and in-person formats. “Additional in-person classes will be available as class sections fill,” said Peggy Heinrich, EdD, vice president of teaching, learning, and student development. “We want to continue to meet the needs and learning styles of our students while adhering to safety guidelines and protocols established by the Illinois Department of Public Health.”

ECC has significant financial assistance still available through federal stimulus relief funds to help cover educational expenses for the 2021-22 academic year. These dollars are not loans and do not need to be paid back. Examples of costs covered by the relief funds include tuition, supplies, housing, health care, mental care, and child care.

All students are encouraged to apply for financial aid and scholarships. The Alternative Application for state aid is available for qualifying undocumented and transgender students. Additionally, child care assistance is available to eligible student-parents through CCAMPIS Grant funding. The ECC Early Childhood Lab School offers flexible, dependable, campus-based child care so students can focus on their studies. Limited space is available each semester.

For financial aid assistance, contact the financial aid office at 847-214-7360 or email financialaid@elgin.edu. For more information about ECC’s Early Childhood Lab School, call 847-214-7376 or email ECLS@elgin.edu.