Online Now, In-Person Later

At Elgin Community College, you can follow our process below to register for classes after a virtual meeting with an academic advisor and completing an online placement test. After two years at ECC, transferring to a university to pursue and complete a bachelor's degree is an option through some of our partnerships.

Have more questions about what it is like to take an online class with ECC? Check out our online class FAQ.

How it works

Step 1: Apply

Visit the Center for Global Engagement and fill out the online application. Upload your high school transcripts, passport photocopy, and evidence of financial support. Make sure to sign your application and the financial agreement. If you have it, upload proof of English proficiency.

Step 2: Register and take ECC online classes in your home country.

After meeting with your academic advisor virtually and taking your online placement test, you can register for your classes through the accessECC portal.

Step 3: Apply for your F-1 visa and come to ECC.

When you are ready, use your I-20 form to schedule your visa interview at the United States embassy or consulate in your home country. Remember to pay your I-901 SEVIS fee and schedule your arrival in the U.S. within 30 days of your program start date.

Step 4: Complete your ECC degree and transfer to a top U.S. university through ECC’s 2+2 University Transfer program.

After completing two years at ECC, you can transfer to a university to complete your bachelor’s degree through our Transfer Degree Programs 2+2 transfer programs.