Pay for College

students outside the library chatting

A great education opens the door to a bright future.

Tuition & Fees

If you are currently enrolled at ECC, you may be eligible for COVID relief funds. Please contact Financial Aid at financialaid@elgin.edu.

The staff accepts financial aid forms and documents via email, fax at 847-608-5460, mail or they can be dropped off during our office hours. We will be awarding financial aid during this time and, if you are eligible for any grants, we will email you and let you know that you have been awarded. If you are not eligible for a grant and need a student loan, please email financialaid@elgin.edu. We can answer questions about your financial aid and we will contact you directly.

If you are awarded a Foundation or Board of Trustees Academic scholarship you will receive an email confirming which scholarship(s) you receive and the amount(s). Applications are still being accepted, and you can visit the page to apply.

An Unbeatable Value

Tuition at ECC is a fraction of the cost you'd pay anywhere else. You can save thousands of dollars over the price of a public or private university—and still get an outstanding education that will expand your opportunities and your earning power.

Financial Aid

We offer financial aid options that can bring your costs down even further:

  • Grants are need-based awards.
  • Scholarships are gift aid, meaning they are a free resource you do not repay.
  • Student employment allows you to earn money while working on campus.
  • Federal loans are available for students and/or parents. This type of funding must be repaid according to the terms specified by the loan program.

We encourage you to apply for financial aid, even if you're not sure you'll qualify. On average, 80 percent of eligible students who completed an ECC Foundation scholarship application by June receive a scholarship.

Pay Your Bill Over Time

If you're not prepared to pay your tuition in full before classes begin, pay in installments through one of our no-interest payment plans. A $30 non-refundable service fee per semester applies to the use of the payment plan. It's a convenient and low-cost way to fund your education and manage your budget. Sign up early to get the best options. 

Important Payment Due Dates

To keep the classes you register for, make payment arrangements by the payment due date each semester. Pay in full, or set up a payment plan by the due date to avoid being dropped from your classes for non-payment. Learn more about our payment policies.

Financial $marts

Tuition bills and financial aid applications can be confusing, but we can help. Our Financial Literacy Program offers free workshops and resources to help you navigate the options and set a budget. 

Student Success Fund

Resources are available to students who need them through our Student Success Fund. Students can be awarded up to $1,000 to help them stay enrolled and stay on track to graduate.