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.

Apply Now

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

To register for classes, you must meet the placement criteria for your program of study. There are several ways to demonstrate college readiness. These requirements may be met by submitting:

• ACT, SAT, PSAT, HiSet, or GED scores
• High school, homeschool, or college transcripts
• ECC’s free placement tests.

Submit your transcripts and/or test scores to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment at admissions@elgin.edu.

Visit the Testing Center webpage to see whether you have met placement requirements or need placement testing.

Transferring College Credit?

If you have earned college credit at another institution, two steps are required:

1. Submit your official transcripts from each college or university to admissions@elgin.edu.

2. Complete the Transcript Evaluation Request Form.

Both steps are required for your transfer coursework to be evaluated. A complete transcript evaluation can:

• Help satisfy placement requirements for your program of study.
• Determine which credits transfer to ECC.
• Ensure you receive the transfer credit you've earned before registering for classes. 

Have credit from outside the U.S.? Review our Evaluation of College Credit Earned Outside the U.S. guidelines.

Step 4: Complete New Student Orientation Online

Once you have satisfied placement criteria for your program of study, you will receive an email to complete our online New Student Orientation.

Step 5: Meet with an Academic Advisor

Once you successfully finish the online orientation, the next step in your academic journey awaits! 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 to provide step-by-step assistance with registration.

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 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.