Admissions FAQ

My child wants to take a class at ECC while still in high school—how do we get started?

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application grades high school reference registration transfer

1. Before your child applies to Elgin Community College (ECC), they should first talk with their high school counselor to get approval for taking college courses.

   High school and home-schooled students can take:

2. Up to 6 credit hours per semester (fall and spring)

3. Up to 3 credit hours in summer

4. For more details or to schedule an appointment, contact an Admissions Specialist at 847-214-7385.

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   Steps to Enroll

5. Learn about Dual Enrollment:
   Review the Dual Enrollment information on our website for full details.

6. Contact Admissions:
   Call 847-214-7385 to speak with an Admissions Specialist about the admission process for high school or home-schooled students.

7. Complete the required documents before your meeting:

   • Permission for Secondary or Home School Admission Form

   • Apply for Admission to ECC (application is free)

   • Placement testing may be required depending on the course:

     • Submit ACT, PSAT, or SAT scores, or take ECC’s placement test.

     • Math placement is required for math-related courses.

     • Students scoring below 100 may need developmental courses.

   Testing Waivers:
   You may be waived from placement testing if you meet one of the following:

   • Reading: ACT 19 or PSAT/SAT Verbal 480

   • Writing: ACT 19 or PSAT/SAT English 480

   • Math: ACT 22 or PSAT/SAT Math 530

   To receive a waiver, submit your score report to the ECC Admissions Office (Building B, Room B110).

8. Home-schooled students:
   Provide a transcript or list of completed coursework.

9. Attend the admissions meeting:
   The student and at least one parent or guardian must attend. All required documents must be submitted before the meeting.

10. Register for classes:
    Once approved and if space is available, students can register during the open registration period. Late registrations are not accepted.

11. Pay for classes:
    After registering, the student is responsible for paying tuition by the published deadline. Visit the Payment Options page for details.

12. Meet with an advisor each semester:
    Dual Enrollment students must meet with an academic advisor every semester to continue taking classes until high school graduation.

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    ECC’s Dual Enrollment program is a great way for motivated students to earn college credit early, explore career interests, and experience a college learning environment with full support and guidance.