The Illinois General Assembly established the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) in 1965 to create a statewide system of public community colleges accessible to every resident.

Today, the Illinois Community College System is the third largest system in the nation, with 45 colleges and one multi-community college center. More than 550,000 Illinois residents enroll  in credit and noncredit courses each year, with thousands more benefiting from community programs and services.

Each community college has its own unique identity, but all share a common mission – to provide high-quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities to the most diverse group of students and communities of any post-secondary option in Illinois. As the state’s largest provider of public workforce training, community colleges are building a stronger Illinois. Nine out of 10 graduates remain in the state, contributing to local economies strengthening resilience, and becoming role models for their families and communities.

The Illinois Community College System is coordinated by the ICCB, a body of  Illinois citizens appointed by the governor. Locally elected boards of trustees* guide their colleges in meeting local and statewide goals.

*The Board of Trustees of the City Colleges of Chicago is appointed by the mayor of Chicago.