Part Time Dual Credit Program at ECC

Qualified juniors and seniors enroll in 2-3 college courses each semester. Courses are selected from a variety of academic disciplines, including general education and career and technical education (CTE) programs (i.e. fire science, certified nursing assistant, paralegal, etc.).

Students choose courses with the help of high school counselor to ensure courses selected meet high school requirements. The school district and high school approve enrollment of their students. Enrollment is limited.

The district pays 50% tuition and textbooks, families are responsible for paying the other 50%. See district program agreement for details. Students are responsible for transportation and non textbook course supplies.

Options & Qualifications:

• Class options available in the Dual Credit Program & Application Guide SY26-27

• Current high school sophomore or junior at the time of application

• Participation in high school activities may be limited

• Maximum of 11 credit hours each semester (including in high school dual credit courses)

• Course options are offered on the ECC campus and have been pre-selected by ECC and D303

General Education Courses

• • Students choose courses based on academic interests or goals

  • Courses meet part of the General Education Core Curriculum requirements for a two-year college degree, which may transfer to a four-year college

  • Demonstrate college-readiness based upon PSAT/SAT/ACT scores and/or ECC placement tests. Readiness requirements depend on ECC course prerequisites.  See the  Dual Credit Program & Application Guide SY26-27 for specific requirements

Career-Technical Education Courses

• • Students choose a CTE program of study

  • Each program includes courses from an Associate in Applied Science degree

  • Credits earned may not transfer to a baccalaureate program

  • Prepares students for careers and /or employment in a career or technical area

  • Some programs and courses require students demonstrate college-readiness skills. See the  Dual Credit Program & Application Guide SY26-27 for specific requirements

Is part-time dual credit a good option for you?

• • Students complete the majority of coursework at Elgin Community College’s main campus.

  • Participation in high school activities might be limited because of commitment to college-level courses.

  • Students are beginning the start of their college education. This will result in an official college transcript.

  • Students need the maturity and strong time management skills to complete assignments and plan ahead for exams, projects and papers.

  • Students enrolled in part-time dual credit courses should recognize that class meeting times and locations may vary depending on the course/program. Review the class schedule carefully when making registration decisions.

  • Reliable transportation is an important consideration.

Dual Credit Program & Application Guide SY26-27

Dual Credit Online Application Form

ECC Dual Credit Information

Required Steps:

1. Meet with your counselor to discuss your interest and how this would look in your schedule for next year.

2. Complete the appropriate (ECC or COD) Dual Credit Online Application Form

   1. The application must be completed by Feb. 6, 2026

3. After applying you will receive information on placement testing.  

   1. Placement Tests must be completed by Feb. 20, 2026

      1. If you have qualifying ACT/SAT/PSAT scores, you may submit those to your counselor or the CCR Office in lieu of testing.

4. Students and parents/guardians will be notified of admission by Feb. 27, 2026