International Students

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

No. At this time, ECC does not require students to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to attend classes. However, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you must have a negative COVID-19 test no more than three days prior to your flight departure to enter the U.S. For more information, visit cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html.

We strongly encourage you to submit all application materials at once to ensure fast processing. 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 visit elgin.edu/academics/international-education/current-international-student-resources/.

Your achievements inside and outside the classroom can earn you scholarship money to help pay for educational expenses. Scholarships are a free resource you do not have to repay and are awarded for a number of reasons, including academic standing, leadership, specialized talents, ethnic origin, and financial need. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis. To apply, visit elgin.edu/pay-for-college/scholarships.

Under federal F-1 regulations, you are permitted to arrive no earlier than 30 days prior to 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 acceptance materials will be processed, including a Form I-20. The average time to process a request for a Form I-20 is 1-2 business days. Your Form I-20 and acceptance letter will be sent to you by email. Your acceptance package will be mailed by FedEx; delivery times vary by location.

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.

Tuition fees and rates can be viewed online at elgin.edu/tuition.

Yes, you can submit financial documents and 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, there are several alternative housing options available to students. It is recommended that you finalize your housing arrangements no later than 60 days prior to 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 to house prior to your arrival, you will be directed to a local extended stay and will be responsible for the cost of lodging and transportation.

Elgin Community College continues to monitor the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). In accordance with state and local regulations, a social distancing protocol is in place, and masks are required for those coming to campus. For more information on the college’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit elgin.edu/about-ecc/campus-safety/emergency-management/coronavirus-resources/.

You can also view a video of what to expect on campus at youtube.com/watch?v=hnbKsfVHQKU.

The Center for International Education and Programs offers international students a holistic, one-stop area for all matters pertaining 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