7 things you should know about Illinois community colleges

There are 48 community colleges in the state of Illinois, each of which offers a variety of programs and services to help students achieve their academic and career goals. Here are some general features and information about the community colleges in Illinois:

  1. Types of Programs Offered: Illinois community colleges offer a wide range of programs, including Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Science (AS) degrees, vocational and technical programs, certificate programs, adult education programs, and workforce training programs. Many community colleges also offer transfer programs that allow students to complete the first two years of a four-year degree at a lower cost before transferring to a four-year institution.
  2. Admissions Requirements: Each community college has its own admissions requirements, but most community colleges in Illinois have an open admissions policy, meaning that any student who has a high school diploma or equivalent can apply and be accepted.
  3. Cost and Financial Aid: Community college tuition rates in Illinois are generally lower* than those of four-year colleges and universities. In addition, many community colleges offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants to help students pay for their education.
  4. Student Services: Illinois community colleges provide a variety of student services to help students succeed academically and personally. These services include academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, disability services, student organizations, and more.
  5. Facilities: Community colleges in Illinois have modern facilities and resources, including libraries, computer labs, science labs, athletic facilities, and more.
  6. Transfer Agreements: Many community colleges in Illinois have transfer agreements with four-year colleges and universities in the state, allowing students to transfer credits seamlessly and continue their education.
  7. Accreditation: Illinois community colleges are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting agency that ensures that colleges and universities meet high academic standards.

Overall, community colleges in Illinois provide students with affordable, high-quality education and training in a variety of fields, and are a great option for students who want to start their academic journey or advance their careers.

*The cost of attending community college in Illinois can vary depending on several factors such as the location, program, and whether the student is an in-state or out-of-state resident. On average, the tuition and fees for in-state students at Illinois community colleges is approximately $4,400 per year, according to the College Board. Out-of-state students can expect to pay more, with an average cost of $9,460 per year.

In addition to tuition and fees, there are other costs associated with attending community college, such as textbooks, supplies, transportation, and living expenses if the student is not living at home. However, many Illinois community colleges offer financial aid, scholarships, and other forms of assistance to help students cover these expenses and make college more affordable.

It’s important to note that the cost of attending community college in Illinois can vary significantly depending on the specific college and program, so it’s a good idea for students to research and compare costs across different institutions before making a decision.