Support for undocumented students
Application Instructions for Undocumented Students
All students use the same application to apply to Elgin Community College. Undocumented students with neither U.S. citizenship nor a visa allowing them to enroll in college coursework are not considered international students. They may apply according to the regular admission process, regardless of resident status.
Select "Apply as a New College Student." You don't need an SSN or an ITIN to register for classes or receive a certificate or degree at ECC. While students without a social security number cannot apply for federal student financial aid to pay for college or career certification, ECC offers other ways to help cover your costs.
Did you know?
- Undocumented students can apply for the Illinois MAP grant courtesy of the Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act.
- Apply for ECC Foundation Scholarships to help cover the costs of tuition, fees, and books.
- If you meet the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) requirements, you can also have a work authorization to get a job on campus through the student work-study program.
- ECC offers different payment plans to cover tuition costs for degree and certificate programs.
FAQ Undocumented Students
Below are some of the most common questions asked by undocumented students or those from mixed-status families. If you have a question not answered here, or would like additional information on concerns related to joining the ECC community or resources available to current students, please contact our Undocumented Student Liaisons. Undocumented Student Liaisons are knowledgeable ECC employees who can provide confidential and compassionate support on a wide range of questions and needs of individuals in the undocumented community.
The information and materials presented on this site are general and informational only and do not constitute legal advice. Immigration questions should be directed to a licensed immigration attorney. The campus and legal information provided on this site are subject to change at any time. Updates will be provided when possible, but faculty, staff, students, and the general public should continue to update and educate themselves concerning undocumented students and their families.
Going to College
I am undocumented. Can I apply to ECC?
Prospective students can apply to Elgin Community College regardless of their immigration status. No federal or state law prohibits undocumented students’ admission to the Community College in their area. Regardless of status, all prospective students will be reviewed under the same admissions criteria. Applying as an undocumented/DACA student uses the same online application as other students. Our application does not require an SSN or an ITIN to register for classes or receive a certificate or degree at ECC.
Should I disclose my status during the admissions process?
Students should decide whether to disclose based on their circumstances and comfort level.
Pay for College
Do undocumented students qualify for in-state tuition?
Learn more about the eligibility requirements for District 509 tuition rates.
Are undocumented students eligible to apply for FAFSA?
While students without a social security number cannot apply for federal student financial aid to pay for college or career certification, ECC offers other ways to help cover your costs.
As of January 1, 2020, undocumented students can apply for the Illinois MAP grant courtesy of the Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act.
- Apply for ECC Foundation Scholarships to help cover the costs of tuition, fees, and books.
- If you meet the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) requirements, you can also have a work authorization to get a job on campus through the student work-study program.
- ECC offers different payment plans to cover tuition costs for degree and certificate programs.
Are undocumented students eligible for scholarships at ECC?
The Board of Trustees Academic Scholarship is available to high school students graduating this year. Students can apply and receive a scholarship for up to four consecutive semesters (excluding summer). Check with the Financial Aid and Scholarships Office for other Board of Trustees scholarships.
Students at ECC may also consider the Foundation Scholarship. Learn more about these scholarships and consider the Foundation Scholarship for students at ECC. Learn more details about these scholarships on scholarship page.
Does the RISE Act allow undocumented students to receive financial assistance?
Yes, the Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act allows eligible undocumented students who are disqualified from federal financial aid to apply for the Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP). However, you still must meet the eligibility requirements for the MAP grant. Read the eligibility requirements for funding.
What is the Illinois Monetary Award Program?
MAP gives lawful permanent residents, transgender students, undocumented students, and others who can’t apply for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) may apply for an Illinois-specific aid program through MAP. Fill out the RISE Act online application. Illinois resident students may be eligible for additional funding and support programs from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Visit the ISAC Website.
ECC Programs
What career options are available for undocumented students?
Undocumented students should carefully consider their proposed program of study. Some professions will have licensing requirements that may include citizenship, and our career advisers are informed and ready to assist you with your specific career interest and plans. Some certificates and degrees include academic requirements for workplace internships that will require employment or a background check before the student begins.
Can Undocumented Students enroll in Health Professions programs?
Undocumented students may apply and enroll in health professions programs at ECC. A social security number (SSN) is not required to apply to ECC or a health professions program.
When a student is admitted to a health professions program at EEC, an SSN, ITIN (Individual Taxpayer ID Number), or alternative will be used for the background check process.
Regarding clinical placements, most clinical sites for programs will have students utilize an SSN or ECC Student ID number. Some Physical Therapy Assistant clinical sites require an SSN.
For certification upon graduation, Basic Nursing Assistant requires an SSN or ITIN. No SSN is required for other programs.
Employment in healthcare is not guaranteed for graduates of ECC’s Health Professions programs who do not have a social security number.
Students who do not have a social security number may contact one of ECC’s Undocumented Student Liaisons for further information:
- Marlen Ruiz
Room B120.05
847-214-7652
mruiz@elgin.edu - Elizabeth Herrera
Room B120.11
847-214-7416
eherrera@elgin.edu
Are undocumented students able to take part in the Future Workforce Leaders program?
The program enrolls undocumented students under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Let us know if you need information on what DACA students are to provide to confirm verification. Learn more about the Future Workforce Leaders program.
Can undocumented students take classes at the ECC Adult Basic Education Center?
YES! Undocumented students CAN take classes at the Adult Basic Education Center. Fill out this application to apply.
What resources are available for undocumented students?
At ECC, several staff members are available to help meet your educational goals as you apply for college. They can also assist you with study abroad programs, how to connect with other allies on campus, scholarships, career planning, leadership opportunities, and more. For information about community resources for undocumented students, see our list of community resources.
Contact
Admissions & Recruitment
Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu
Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm
*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689
Contact
Contact: Undocumented Student Liaisons
Elizabeth Herrera, Manager of Student Recruitment and Outreach
Building B, Room B110.03
847-214-7416
Contact
Records
Building B, Room B105
847-214-7386
Fax: 847-214-7356
Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Friday: 8 am to 4 pm