What Undocumented Students Need to Know about Attending MCC
MCC welcomes and supports undocumented students.
Para comunicarse con alguien en español, envíenos un correo electrónico a studentsupport@mchenry.edu
- How will MCC use my information?
Social security numbers are only used to find matches for students who completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is completely optional for students to complete. Financial Aid from the FAFSA can only be processed when students provide their social security number on their application to MCC.
- Will MCC report me?
No. Your student record is protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.
- What degrees are available to me?
- Can I obtain my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license or other licensing?
Illinois Public Act 100-1078 (SB3109) ensures immigrant status doesn’t block professional licensure. Undocumented students in Illinois can apply for professional licensure with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- I am the first person in my family to attend college, who can support me?
MCC’s College Success Coaches provide support and resources for you.
Participate in our Student Mentoring Program. It's free and available to any student. You’ll receive professional advice, encouragement, and support as you build confidence and improve your skills.
- I cannot pay the $15 fee to apply to MCC, what should I do?
Call the Admissions office and ask for the current application fee waiver code – call (815) 479-7732. The Admissions office is happy to provide you with an application fee waiver. You do not need to disclose the reason why you are asking for a fee waiver.
- Do you have a Spanish speaking employee I can talk to about my situation?
Yes, we can help! Email Marcos Saldivar, the Undocumented Student Liaison who is also fluent in Spanish, or call him at (815) 479-7749.
- Can I receive help with transportation to MCC?
MCC students can use MCRide, the county’s dial-a-ride program, to get to and from MCC for free! The program offers curb-to-curb, ADA-accessible transportation from the rider’s desired pick-up and drop-off destination within McHenry County. Rides must be scheduled in advance by calling the Pace Call Center at 1-800-451-4599, and can be scheduled up to two days before your trip. Tell the operator that you are an MCC student so you will not be charged for the ride. For more MCRide information, the Dial-A-Ride Services Guide
- Are there scholarships to help students who use DACA?
Yes. Reach out to the Friends of MCC Foundation by phone at (815) 455-8721 to inquire about the scholarships that are available to students using DACA.
- What student groups are available at MCC?
There are 30+ student groups offered at MCC. See a list of student organizations
- I am living in the United States on my own, what resources or support can MCC provide to me?
If you're a current student, contact Karen Taboada Buur at (815) 455-8754 for more information. If you're an incoming student, contact Recruitment and Admissions at (815) 479-7732.