Illinois Eastern Community Colleges offers accessible and affordable associate degrees and certificates across four campuses in southeastern Illinois, with dedicated advisors and various scholarship opportunities available for students.
Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) is a public community college district in Illinois, comprising four colleges: Frontier Community College, Lincoln Trail College, Olney Central College, and Wabash Valley College. These colleges offer a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs designed for direct career entry or transfer to four-year universities. IECC focuses on providing accessible and affordable education across its diverse campuses. The colleges within the IECC district are recognized for their quality programs and supportive learning environments. Students benefit from dedicated academic advising, helping them navigate their educational paths and prepare for future careers or further studies. Each college maintains its unique campus identity while contributing to the overall mission of the district. IECC is committed to student success, offering various resources, including scholarship opportunities and career-focused programs. The colleges provide a practical and engaging educational experience within a close-knit community setting.
Student life at Illinois Eastern Community Colleges encompasses various cultural and community engagement opportunities. Wabash Valley College, for example, hosts the Brubeck Arts Center Gallery, which showcases local and regional artists with diverse mediums and styles. Admission to the gallery is free and open to the public, providing a cultural hub for students and the wider community. Each college within the IECC district fosters its own campus environment, encouraging students to participate in activities and events.
Tuition rates are effective beginning Summer 2026. Residency is the primary factor for tuition assessment. Full-time enrollment (15 credits per semester, two semesters) for non-U.S. residents would typically be $7,200 for tuition (non-health professions) plus approximately $1,300 in universal fees, totaling around $8,500. For health professions, this would be $10,800 plus fees, totaling approximately $12,960. These estimates do not include the application fee, health insurance, or other program/course-specific miscellaneous fees.
The colleges of Illinois Eastern Community Colleges are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
The Agricultural Technology Production program offers comprehensive training in key agricultural sciences such as agronomy, animal science, soils, fertilizers, chemicals, animal nutrition, and crop production. It also focuses on precision agriculture techniques. Beyond technical knowledge, the program equips students with essential managerial, financial, and marketing skills to navigate the challenges of farming and related businesses, preparing them for success in the agricultural industry.
Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) offers a wide range of academic programs designed to prepare students for future careers or further education. The areas of study are categorized to help students explore their options, including Arts, Media & Sciences; Business, Ag & Industry; Education; Health & Wellness; Public Safety; S.T.E.M.; and Technology. Students can also choose an "Undecided" option if they are exploring their interests.
The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) prepares students for a dynamic and highly sought-after career in nursing. Recognizing the significant shortage of qualified nurses, the program focuses on equipping students with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for professional registered nursing practice. Graduates are well-prepared and in demand by employers in the field. The ADN program is available across four IECC campuses: Frontier Community College, Lincoln Trail College, Olney Central College, and Wabash Valley College, offering students the flexibility to choose a location that suits their needs while receiving a quality education close to home. The program emphasizes a hometown, family-oriented approach to learning. The IECC ADN program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission on Education in Nursing (ACEN) and is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. This ensures that students receive a high standard of education. For those interested in exploring career paths or seeking more information, contacting a program advisor is recommended.
The Associate in Arts (AA) degree is designed to meet the core general education requirements of the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI). This means that upon completion, students can transfer to over 100 participating Illinois institutions with junior status. It's important for students to work closely with an academic advisor to ensure their chosen electives are appropriate for transfer and align with their intended major at their future university. This transfer degree is offered at all four Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) campuses.
The Associate in Science degree is designed to facilitate your transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a Bachelor's degree in a science-related field. Upon successful completion, you can generally transfer with junior status. It is crucial to work closely with an academic advisor to ensure your chosen electives are appropriate, transferable, and align with your intended major at the university. This program is available at all four Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) campuses. Starting your higher education journey at IECC offers an affordable path to your academic and career goals, providing a strong foundation before you transfer. You'll receive the necessary general education requirements and specialized coursework to prepare you for a seamless transition to a four-year institution, often at a lower cost than starting directly at a university. IECC emphasizes a personalized learning experience with small class sizes, averaging ten students. This allows instructors to get to know you individually, offering one-on-one support and fostering a collaborative learning environment. You'll benefit from direct interaction with faculty and classmates, ensuring you receive quality instruction and dedicated assistance throughout your studies.
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
For non-U.S. residents, tuition is $240.00 per credit hour, or $360.00 for Health Professions. Additional fees apply, including an application fee, health insurance, and various universal and program-specific fees. Full-time enrollment for non-health professions is estimated around $8,500 annually, and for health professions, around $12,960 annually, excluding some additional costs.
Yes, TOEFL is required for international applicants, though the minimum score should be confirmed with the district. IELTS is also accepted for international applicants.
International students must submit an international application with a $100 non-refundable fee and provide proof of finances. It is also required to schedule an appointment with an academic advisor before enrolling in a degree or certificate program.
Illinois Eastern Community Colleges comprises four campuses: Frontier Community College in Fairfield, Lincoln Trail College in Robinson, Olney Central College in Olney, and Wabash Valley College in Mt. Carmel, all located across southeastern Illinois.
IECC offers a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs, designed for direct career entry or transfer to four-year universities. This includes career and technical education (CTE) pathways.